Showing posts with label rent a car. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rent a car. Show all posts

Friday, October 1, 2010

Are You Looking For A Cheap Car Rental Service?

In today's world of competitive marketing and cutthroat competition, a customer can't really predict whether the deal he/she is closing will benefit her or not, most of the time most, consumers, just go on with the deal just to avoid all the hassle of inquiring for more economic alternatives, or discounts.

This also applies to car rentals, nowadays, it's hard to call anything a cheap car rental, with the inflation rate of products, continuing gas price increase it's hard to keep product prices down, so here are a few tips to keep your car rentals cheap, even if every other factor is making it expensive.

1. Reserve your cheap car rental internet sites instead of over the counter ones. Internet sites, offer internet only discounts which could very beneficial for you, cheap car rentals can be achieved by being witty, put discounts like these to your advantage and you're sure to save a lot.

2. One way to get cheap car rentals is to try to get the most out of your rental. Most car rentals require you to fill the tank when you return it, so on your way to returning the rented car, fill it up with the cheapest type of gas you could find, you'll save more than when they make you pay for the gas at an inflated rate.

3. If you can, always rent at only one Car Company, companies give you cheap car rentals for frequently renting their cars, discounts, coupons and sometimes even miles.

4. Ask the car rentals if you can exchange your flyers miles for car rental miles. This is especially useful when your flyer's miles is about to expire, instead of just letting it go to waste, get a cheap car rental for it.

5. For a cheap car rental, try to make reservations as early as possible, car rental; companies give discounts for customers who reserve early.

6. To get your rental cheaper, pick up your car early in the morning, just as the shop is opening, so that there will be a shortage on the cheap car rentals, at this point, the renters may give you a free or a marked down upgrade.

7. Look for packages like hotels and rental packages or if you want a cheaper car rental find a package that includes air fare, car rental and hotel stay, these packages give you great discounts on all three, so if you're planning to do all, I suggest you get a package deal to get the most out of your money.

8. To get a cheap car rental at your own, price, find rent-at-your-own-price internet sites that look for the best possible deal with the budget that you've given them, but be careful with this, review the company's history first before you get into it, or make sure that there are no other cheaper means before you close the deal, remember, once you make a reservation, you can't cancel it.

9. If you're going to use the car for more than five days try to find weekly rates from car rentals, with weekly rates, the sixth and seventh day are almost always discounted, so look for this when you're out for a cheap car rental.

10. Instead of picking up your rental at the airport, save money by picking it up at the shop, this'll reduce airport surcharges.

Source:- http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/are-you-looking-for-a-cheap-car-rental-service-443240.html

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Car Rental Faqs - Part 1

Q. Why take a ‘driving holiday’?
A. A drive holiday gives you the freedom and flexibility to decide on where you travel and what you see and do. You are in charge of how much time you wish to spend at a particular attraction. You have the independence to move around as much or as little as you like. A drive holiday allows you to discover so much more as a car will allow you to drive through the little villages in out of the way places.

Q. How is car rental charged?

A. Car rental is based on 24 hour periods and charged accordingly. If you pick up a car at 9am on Thursday and return at 9am the following day, this is one 24 hour period and therefore a one day booking.

Q. Is it cheaper to pre-book my car rental or should I book when I arrive?

A. Pre-booking will save you money almost every time! With a wholesaler like Drive Away Holidays, you receive the benefit of our purchasing power. Our prices with the major car rental suppliers are considerably lower than walking in off the street in a foreign country to rent a car. In addition you are pre-paying in Australian dollars so the risk of fluctuations in the currency are reduced.

Q. How does a prepaid rental work?

A. The booking is made in advance, paid for and a voucher is issued. The voucher is then used as payment when you go to pick up the car from the supplier.

Q. What additional extras will I have to pay?

A. It depends on what the rental covers. Drive Away Holidays in most cases include all mandatory charges, like road taxes or airport surcharges. Many optional charges are applicable such as young or additional drivers, Insurance Excess Reduction or extra equipment like child seats. Be sure to check out rate inclusions – first when you are choosing your vehicle online and when you have made your booking (the inclusions will be on your voucher)

Q. What happens when I pick up the car?

A. Present the rental voucher, a valid drivers license and a credit card for a security deposit. Any additional charges will be explained as well as the conditions of the rental. A signature will be required to accept or decline additional charges and to acknowledge that the rental conditions are understood.

Q. What does the supplier do with the renters credit card?

A. It varies depending on the supplier – they may freeze a specific amount as a deposit, an imprint may be taken as a deposit or an amount may be charged to cover the security deposit and then refunded on the return of the vehicle. In some instances the bond can be paid in cash – check with the supplier/broker when you book.

Q. Will there be fuel in the vehicle?

A. Yes, there should be enough to get you on your way. Different companies have different policies regarding fuel – most will supply a full tank and require the car to be returned with a full tank of fuel, otherwise the renter is charged the difference. Some companies provide minimum fuel and is to returned as the renter wishes.

Q. What is a Pre-Paid Fuel Option?

A. Most car rental companies provide a full tank of fuel and will charge you for re-fuelling the vehicle if it is not returned with a full tank. By accepting a Pre-paid fuel option you are agreeing to pay a pre-determined price for fuel regardless of whether you return the vehicle with a full, partially full or empty tank. This means you won’t need to search for a petrol station before you return the car, but there is no refund for any fuel remaining in the tank.

Q. Should I check out the condition of the rental car before driving away?
A. Yes, it is a good idea to check the vehicle before you leave the depot. Any damage or unusual dents/scratches should be noted on the contract before leaving.


Source:-http://www.articlesbase.com/vacation-rentals-articles/car-rental-faqs-part-1-646442.html#ixzz0vQ1DKzog

Monday, June 21, 2010

Avoid A Car Rental Nightmare

It won't take much effort to find car rental disaster stories. Just a few online searches and you will see them. In fact, research will show that some rental companies have a worse reputation than others. Online searches will bring up stories of people charged for insurance they didn't want or charged for damage they didn't cause, of cars not be serviced when they are due and even a bumper falling a car as it was being driven down the road.

While it is impossible to avoid a bad experience completely, taking a few precautions will keep the chance of having your very own car rental horror story to a minimum.

First Objective: Successfully book your car hire auckland
This should be easy, but instead for many it is a confusing search of prices, car types and fine print. These steps should help ease the confusion.

Book well in advance
Make sure to book well in advance, car rental prices tend to go up the closer you get to the pick up date, not down. Prices work on a simple supply and demand system; they go up as availability goes down. If you are travelling to Europe and require an automatic car you will need to book months in advance in order to secure one, especially in Italy where they are particularly rare. If you are travelling during the holidays, Christmas and Easter in particular, making a reservation around three months ahead is ideal. This way you will have the best chance of getting a car at a normal price. After this point the prices just start to go up. Most car rental companies sell out for the holidays, resulting in many travellers panicking in the last couple of weeks before a major holiday as they struggle to secure a car. Those that are lucky enough to find a car will be forced to pay very high prices, three or four times a normal rate. Don't be one of these people. The summer is also another peak period to prepare for. Many locations have low or no availability during the summer so if you are booking last minute you may have trouble finding a good price and the car type you want.

Make a car rental reservation
To get started make a list of the basics: where and when you want to pick up the car and where and when you want to bring it back, what size car you need and do you want an automatic or manual gear box. These details are especially important if you are contacting various rental companies by email to get quotes. Make sure you provide them to avoid unnecessary emailing. Also do a little research on the various rental companies and avoid the worst offenders even if they are offering the cheapest price. No rental company is perfect so you will just have to narrow down your options.

Next you will want to research prices. When you do this make sure you are taking the full offer into account. Do the rates offered include taxes, location fees, mandatory insurances, break down cover and unlimited mileage? You will discover that most of the rates offered for car rentals in Europe are inclusive of all mandatory charges. But make sure you know this for certain, because if they are not included in the rate offered and they will be added when you pick up your car, making for an unpleasant surprise. If you are unsure about anything email the rental company, sometimes this is better than the telephone as you will get a response in writing. Which might solve any problems that may occur down the line. The rental company will have a hard time arguing written correspondence but they could deny any thing they said on the phone.

Once you are satisfied with a price make your reservation. If you book online you should get a confirmation voucher within a certain time period, this can range from instantly to a couple of days. If you do not receive your confirmation voucher within a couple of days don't hesitate to email the rental company. Maybe there is some kind of problem confirming your reservation or your voucher was sent but it was blocked by your email spam guard and it is necessary to find another way of getting your booking information to you.

Second Objective: Pick up your car without a hitch
It is important to have your wits about you on arrival at the rental desk, you may be tired and have the urge to breeze through the paper work, grab your keys and go. But it is best to resist this urge at all costs, you won't regret it. When you speak to the rental desk clerk you will be asked if you want any optional insurances, such as a Super Damage Waiver. The SDW reduces your liability to zero or an amount much less than you would be charged in the event of damage to the car. To take this extra insurance is a personal choice, however it is not usually mandatory and it is one of the major ways car rental companies make money. If you are only renting for a couple of days then the expense of this insurance may make it worth getting for your own peace of mind, but for longer rentals think carefully. The cost of the SDW may end up being close to the excess liability amount so do really get much benefit from it.

Read your contract carefully
The most important thing you need to do at the rental desk is to read your rental contract and receipt very carefully, this is where many people get stung. What happens is that extra insurances get charged to your credit card even if you specifically say you do not want them. This seems to be a common "mistake" made by rental clerks. Make sure you are also clear about the fuel policy, most rental companies require you to bring the car back with a full tank or else they charge you an inflated rate for fuel. Before you sign anything ensure that every charge and policy you are unsure of is explained to you. Don't be afraid to ask about everything, it is your wallet that ends up worse off if there are errors. Once the rental company has your signature there is little you can do to get refunded for any charges you were unaware of.

Third Objective: Drive away and enjoy your trip
Once you find your car in the parking lot it is very important to give it a good going over. If you see any dents, dirt or scratches make sure that the rental company takes note of them before you drive away. Otherwise you could be blamed and end up being charged the full excess amount, which is usually in the hundreds of dollars. If you want to be really cautious check the oil and make sure that it is not due to be changed.

Fourth Objective: Return the Car
In most cases you will need to return you car rental with a full tank of fuel. There is usually a gas(petrol) station near to the car rental drop off location. It is best to use the closest possible option and to fill the car as much as possible so it cannot be claimed that the tank isn't quite a full. Return the car keys and agree any extra charges with the rental company.

Quick Summary

- Plan what you need

- Do some research

- Make sure you understand the rate and terms

- Book well in advance

- Check your contract and receipt carefully before you sign

- Check you car carefully for any damage before you drive away

- Return the car with a full tank (make sure you are clear on this policy at the rental desk)

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Avoid-A-Car-Rental-Nightmare&id=337376

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Cargo Van Hire

Cargo vans are terrific for people who are transporting goods around the country. Many people are now hiring them to transport their possessions when they are moving to a new city. It is a lot less stressful and much less expensive than hiring a removal list. It is not difficult to find great discounts and save yourself hundreds of dollars. This article will explain how you can book a cargo van and how to find the best possible price when you hire one!

How to Book a Cargo Van
There are three ways to hire a cargo van- on the internet, on the phone or in person. To book on the internet you just fill out a simple form. The forms are very secure and you will be safe entering personal details. Booking over the phone is fairly simple. You just ring the rental company and tell them what type of van (eg. a full size van) you would like to hire. You will also need to mention whether you need a 'one way' rental or not. To book in person you must visit the van rental dealership and tell them your needs. You will then be asked to fill out a form.

Finding the Best Discounts
It is not hard to find some very good deals when van rental is there. You should always do a quick search of the internet to find some coupon codes. These can save about 5% (sometimes more) off the total price of the van hire. There are some very good coupons available for purchase on eBay. You should also visit the websites of the major companies as they often have great daily deals. There are also many 'comparison websites' that compare the rates of all the major companies.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Cargo-Van-Hire&id=2213399

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

The Eight Advantages of Car Hire The Eight Advantages of Car Hire

Car hiring is a popular way of providing transportation for people to travel a long trip with convenience and comfort. The concept of car hire has been brought about by the evolution of the car business. There are several car hire company to choose from especially online that offers discounts, low rates, and best package deals. All you need to know is to compare different car hire company quotes, analyze them properly, and go for the best.

But having a auckland car hire services have also advantages and disadvantages. And listed below are some of the advantages of hiring a car.

First, it is ideal to rent a car for a long trip. This will keep your own car from getting old before its time. Remember that even the best maintained car can suddenly develop trouble.

Second, it would be more expensive to rent a car, but you would not be putting the wear and tear, or mileage on your own vehicle.

Third, hiring a car is also beneficial if you are traveling to a mountainous places which would require heavy loads of acceleration going up and would require heavy brakes. You can put those hard miles on the rented car rather than putting it on your own car.

Fourth, you have many options of which car to select from and you can select a car that is appropriate for the current trip. It also allows you to get a more good look at something other than what you usually drive.

Fifth, you can find a car rental companies in almost every corner of the world, giving you the option to just explore the world better.

Sixth, renting a car can be cheaper then airline travel. This is very true when traveling with a large family or group. The cost of the car hire may be equivalent to one airline ticket thus, hiring a car will give a family substantial savings that can be spent on a vacation.

Seventh, renting a car provides convenience of driving where you want and when you want. This also saves time when traveling. You will have also an opportunity to visit a place where you never been before. Car rental companies have global positioning system that monitors your movement which enable you to roam wherever you want to.

Eight, hiring a car allows you to travel at own own pace, time, and convenience. You can stop wherever you are at different sites for leisure. It also allows you to pack the type of food you want to, stop when you want to stretch or take a break. With a rented car that you have, you are in control rather than surrender to the delays that are common with trains or bus travel.

Comfort, convenience, saving energy and money, this puts car hire above other traveling options. With this and the above listed advantages, you do not need to think twice to avail of this car hire service.

Source:-http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Eight-Advantages-of-Car-Hire&id=3192571

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Car Hire, How To Successfully Rent A Car

The term car hire stands for the renting of a car/automobile. This is usually undertaken on a short time basis and many people seem to be unaware of the benefits of it. The short term basis of renting a car usually surrounds a period of anything from a few hours to a few weeks.

Depending on the size of the rental company that you choose to use for you car hire needs, the choice of cars that are you able to pick from many be limited. Many car hire companies do have a large selection of cars to choose but it is important that you ensure the company that you decide to rent from have a range of models that are reasonable priced for renting. This gives you the best options for your money and ensures that you get the service that you are paying for.

If you are in need of the help of a car hire company there are two prime locations that you can go where you are almost guaranteed to find a car hire company. The first of these locations is an airport. Many rental companies set up base in the areas surrounding the airport as many people wish to hire cars whilst they are away from home and without access to their own cars. The second popular place tends to be in a busy city where people may not want to or be able to use public transport to get to their desired location.

Where ever a car hire company is based you want to be able to go there knowing that the car you wish to rent is available to do so. This is why pretty much all car rental companies come with a website. The use of a website allows customers to look at the different cars available for hire. The cars are normally listed under their make, for example there may be a section entitled Renault and within this section all of the cars under this make, such as Clio, Twingo or Megane will be listed, allowing you to read about the features of the car as well as seeing what they look like. If you happen to come across a car that you like and want to hire but are worried in case the company currently have none available, never fear! By using the website of a car hire company you can reserve the car that you wish to rent, which ensures that when you get to the actually car hire company they will have it there waiting for you.

Anyone, as long as you have a valid license of course, can rent a car for whatever reason. The car rental service is mainly used by people who travelling and are in need of a car to get round or to visit tourist attractions. They are also frequently used by people whose cars are currently being repaired or people waiting to buy a new one.

The car hire industry is so much more useful than people give it credit for. We've all been there when something goes wrong and you need to take your car in to be repaired, only to find out it could take a few days, then panic stations set in; how am I going to get to work? Etc well next time you find yourself in a similar predicament keep the option of car renting in your mind.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Car-Hire,-How-To-Successfully-Rent-A-Car&id=1024865

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Minibus Hire and Van Rental - All the things you should Know

New Zealand has a wide range of minibus and van rental services to suit all budgets and requirements. You can hire them for commercial use, recreational and business traveling. Quality New Zealand minibus rental offers the right vehicle, and service you can always rely on!


  1. The one who are on a road trip with friends,

  2. The one who are exploring cities,

  3. The one who cannot afford to fly,

  4. The one who have relatives living in other cities,

  5. The one who want a flexible and affordable way to travel.


The summer is here and companies come out with various packages for your travel. These could be a long weekend special package, one-way relocation rental, one day free rental, one- way red hot deal, two way full services or a discount package with lot more options. Van rental is a bonus for the budget-minded traveler. It offers the best value for money; great rental solutions with helpful, friendly service. This season, one of the major developments to keep the environment safe, companies are offering Bio- diesel fuels. They have a Green Fleet of vehicles to reduce our carbon footprints and to have more eco-friendly and support tourism sustainability.


How can you select a good van rental for yourself?


  1. Check if your deal includes the 24 hour AA (Automobile Association) roadside assistance. In the event of breaking down, AA will fix it anywhere in New Zealand.

  2. Be very clear on the make of van you require and specify your budget. The vendor can have a wide range of vans with differing features at various prices.

  3. Check if your van hire company will let you drive their van in the first place. Most van hire companies in New Zealand require you to be 21 and over. If you are allowed to drive the van, ensure that there are no surcharges associated with the age relaxation.

  4. Discuss with the company what the inclusions and exclusions are.

  5. Check if it has provisions for fitting a baby seat.

  6. Confirm in advance as to how many of you will be traveling and verify if your van can seat that many comfortably.

  7. Is there any facility of ferry crossing? Some companies have an office on either side of the North and South Island. It is best to load your car, take it on the ferry and drive away when you reach the other side.


Minibus hire/rental let you be on road in no time with their full services. And you are treated as a valued customer.

Jessica Whatson is the author of this article. For more information about Minibus hire, van hire Auckland, truck rental and car hire Auckland please follow this link van rental

Source:- http://www.212articles.com/articles/95287/1/Minibus-Hire-and-Van-Rental---All-the-things-you-should-Know/Page1.html

Monday, March 29, 2010

Car Rental Insurance Guide

Auckland car rental companies offer such a wide variety of insurance policies it can be difficult to decide what coverage is really necessary from what is not. Some of the rental company's insurance policy may be necessary while other coverage may be extended through your own auto insurance premium. It's important to know what rental car charges you are responsible for before accepting your car.

Coverage Against Acts of Nature

According to Hertz, a leading provider of rental cars, most major rental companies are not paying for costs associated with acts of nature. It's important for drivers to know that most major car rental companies no longer provide coverage for cars damaged by acts of nature like hail storms, earthquakes and floods.

Read Your Agreement Terms Carefully

It's very important to thoroughly read your rental agreement before taking the keys to your rental car or you could end up paying dearly. However, acts of nature may be covered under your auto insurance policy's comprehensive coverage. It's important for anyone planning to rent a car to check with your own auto insurance policy to find out what it covers when you rent a car. You should also make sure that you have any protection that you are questioning written clearly into your car rental agreement.

Consider who else will be driving the car, and know who your policy covers. Will it extend to family, business associates or friends? You'll probably want to tell you eager teen driver that the rental vehicle is off limits.

Making Sense of the Agreement

Car rental agreements can be very long and complicated documents. They do not contain very many layman terms. Still you should take the time to read through the contract thoroughly before signing. Ask the representative to explain any concepts, phrasing or terminology that you don't understand.

Collision Damage Waiver

Car rental companies offer all types of coverage options to you before you receive your vehicle. These charges can really begin to add up, increasing your rental cost. But a lot of the coverage they sell is the same coverage you are already paying for under your auto insurance policy. This coverage automatically extends to your rental car.

One exception to this is a daily charge that covers the cost of damages to the rental car if you are involved in an accident. It also covers the "loss of use" charge the rental company will end up charging you. "Loss of use" refers to the time and money the rental car company has lost since they can no longer rent the vehicle. If you refuse this coverage, you should be aware that most car rental companies expect to be paid immediately. Deciding not to purchase the Collision Damage Waiver means you'll be expected to pay for the rental on your own. If you rent a car in another country your insurance coverage will not likely extend to your rental.

Keep Asking Questions About Rental Car Insurance Policies

If you have a loss in your rental car that isn't covered under your auto insurance policy, try checking your other insurance policies. For example, personal property that gets stolen from your rental car just may be covered by your rental or home owners policy. Don't assume that because no one has mentioned it that it doesn't exist. The bottom line is that you are responsible for knowing what coverage you do and don't have.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Car-Rental-Insurance-Guide&id=1489512

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Rental Cars: Do You Make This Costly Car Rental Mistake?

Doesn't it seem confusing sometimes just to get a rental car? There seems to be so much paperwork and so many decisions to make.

For example, should you get the collision damage waiver or not? Should you buy additional insurance coverage from the car rental company?

If you've ever watched people at the rental car counter, you know these are questions that most people struggle with. Sometimes you can decline additional insurance on car rentals, but there are specific instances that you should always buy the insurance. But how do you know?

One of the biggest areas of confusion is the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) offered by the car rental company at the time of rental. It covers damage to the rental car if you are involved in an accident.

The CDW isn't exactly insurance, and it only covers only damage to the rental car. It doesn't cover property damage or personal injury. If CDW is purchased, the car rental company waives some or all of its right to gain from you for physical damages to the car.

So should you purchase the CDW the car rental agency pushes at you? Experts say that most people don't need it but purchase it anyway. This is a very costly mistake!

You can save yourself a lot of hassle and unnecessary cost by doing three things. First, check your own car insurance policy to see what coverage carries over to rental cars. Second, see if the credit card you are using offers any coverage for renting. And finally, check the options the car rental agency offers in its own policies.

Many car insurance policies include all-inclusive and collision coverage to damages to rental cars. There is no sense paying for more if your policy includes this coverage, right? Just verify the details with your insurance agent before you decline the car rental company's additional insurance options.

Typical car insurance policies provide liability coverage that extends to car rentals. If you injure someone in an accident while driving a rental car, your policy will often cover you. If your car insurance policy does not provide these coverages when you are driving car rentals, be sure to purchase additional insurance from the car rental company to protect yourself.

In addition, many credit cards offer coverage for rental cars. If your credit card includes coverage for car rentals that have been damaged in an accident, you don't need to buy any other additional insurance coverage the car rental company offers you.

Finally, read the car rental policy carefully and decide whether or not your car insurance or credit card covers you. Then discuss the car rental's coverage with the agent. Always make an informed decision. Don't give into pressure by the car rental agent.

Deciding whether or not to pay for additional insurance coverage the car rental companies offer can be a tough decision. Check with your credit cards and existing car insurance policy to see if they provide rental car provisions, and if they don't, you'd better consider spending the extra money for additional insurance for your own protection.

You shouldn't pay for anything that you really don't need! On the other hand, you don't want to have inadequate coverage in the event of an accident with rental ca

Source:-http://ezinearticles.com/?Rental-Cars:-Do-You-Make-This-Costly-Car-Rental-Mistake?&id=269778

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Planning a Car Rental


With rising gas prices, driving causes more headaches than it used to. When traveling, though, you may need to rely on a car rental. There are ways to save money if you plan well. Next time you're looking for a quality, affordable car rental auckland, consider the following:

1. A car rental at the airport sometimes costs more than at a nearby agency. Compare prices ahead of time; it may be worth taking a taxi a few miles to pick up the vehicle at a different rental location.

2. Choose a no-frills car rental. Many less-luxurious cars get better mileage.

3. Car rental agencies usually have better deals on compact cars. If you don't need the space, why pay for it? Compact cars also get better mileage.

4. A car rental is usually more costly if you pick up the vehicle at one location and drop it off at another. However, consider the price of returning to the original locale. Is it cheaper to pay for the gas or for the drop-off? This might sway your decision a little.

5. Car rental agencies offer prepaid fill-ups when you return the vehicle. Compare their costs with the gas pump prices and decide ahead of time which is a better deal.

6. A weekly car rental usually costs less than paying for five or six days alone. If you're staying just under a week, you may want to pay this rate and return the car early.

7. Avoid purchasing insurance from the car rental company if possible. Many credit cards cover car rental insurance; in the event of collision or theft you'll be taken care of. Check your credit card agreement ahead of time.

8. Save the extra driver cost by choosing a designated driver. Some car rental agencies charge more to add a driver.

9. Look for car rental coupons in travel magazines or an Entertainment book. Agencies also give discounts to AAA and AARP members. Be sure to inquire about available deals.

Keeping these factors in mind before your car rental, you can save a substantial amount of money. Shop wisely, and know before you go!

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Planning-a-Car-Rental&id=69122

Sunday, February 21, 2010

How to Achieve a Stress-Free Car Rental - 5 Keys to Success

The average car rental is a process that should be given more than last minute attention during travel. Unfortunately, many families (and business travellers) fail to do a few small things in advance that could lead to a more stress-free car rental travel experience. As any frequent traveller knows, getting the car rental right at the beginning of the trip can certainly result in a much more enjoyable trip for all concerned at the end. Below are 5 keys to a successful car rental that every traveller should make note of:

1. Do a little homework. As with any wise buying decision, even a little preparation can save dollars. For example, the wise and experienced traveller will make sure their own automobile insurance is up to date and sufficient for their planned car rental needs. It is widely accepted that travellers need not take the rental company insurance offered if their own coverage can protect them adequately. The only exception to this might be: lack of insurance because the renter does not have a personal car. In this case, the higher-priced rental company insurance is better than none at all.

2. Understand your rental agreement. Wise car rental customers will make absolutely sure they understand the terms and requirements of any car or vehicle rental agreement. This is a major part of preparation for travel and car rental, and should not be something that is studied only when a problem arises. Some details that should always be confirmed include: 1) How many miles are allowed per day (experienced rental customers agree that unlimited mileage is best for most travelers), and 2) Is the customer required to refill the gasoline tank when the car is returned? Rental companies generally offer a fuel option that allows the customer to pay up front for a tank of gasoline. This means that the driver can return the car without filling the tank. In most cases it is best to buy gasoline when needed, filling the tank just before returning the car.

3. Know what you are renting. While many travellers will actually consider insurance, mileage and gasoline when renting a car, most will not take the time to look at the car's physical condition to check for dents, scratches and other appearance problems. Feedback from customers and customer complaints indicate that car rental companies will sometimes try to blame these problems on the current renter. To avoid this difficulty, wise car rental customers will point out any problems prior to taking the car, making sure that the company representative notes scratches, dents and upholstery problems, in writing. Tip: Experienced renters use their digital cameras to document any problems before driving away.

4. Look for value but pay for happiness. The car rental auckland industry has grown quickly and now includes dozens of choices. This level of competition has led to reduced prices, even from some of the top-name companies. Of course, the best deal for the lowest price is everyone's goal. However, experience in the field of car rentals has taught many people that the lowest price is not always the key to happiness. (It's always a good idea to pay particular attention to the "however.") As the choices expand, customers are tempted to choose lesser-known companies to save money. Many of these occasional renters assume that state and federal laws will protect them from any major problems. While it is generally true that the "name-brand" corporations and many smaller companies will provide a quality, worry-free experience, problems can arise with some of the smaller start-up businesses. The wise renter will be sure to clear up any doubts about terms and car conditions, especially with smaller fleet businesses. The pressure of creating and growing a business may lead some to cut corners. In the end, the customer may have to pay for that pressure.

5. Stress the small details. There are a number of items in the small print of rental agreements that can add to or subtract from the overall cost you finally end up paying. Two that should be understood fully at the start are: 1) Return requirements - Is the original renter required to bring the car back to the same location? There may be a charge for returning the vehicle to another site. 2) Will there be an extra charge if the driver is under a particular age. Companies may include a surcharge if the driver is under 25, for example. These are the most popular and can mean hidden charges at the end of your trip you weren't counting on. Make sure you read the small print and ask questions before driving that rental car of the lot.

Vacations can be hectic enough without adding the stresses of a bad car rental into the equation. The mistakes that the average traveller makes when renting a car vary from a lack of planning before the trip begins, to doing small things during the rental process that end up costing him or her more money in the end. Wise travellers can avoid these mistakes by following the five tips outlined above to achieve a successful stress-free car rental.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Achieve-a-Stress-Free-Car-Rental---5-Keys-to-Success&id=724830

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Van Hire - How To Save Money and Time

Vans are pretty boring, right? I mean you've got a car that's quieter, faster, more comfortable and infinitely more stylish than a van, not to mention cheaper and easier to park – so why would you be interested in vans?

Consider this – you're moving house on a budget. Renting a van and doing the removal yourself is the only option. You cheerfully ring up your local van hire company and book a van – "like a Transit, yeah, a big one".

The day arrives and your Transit is a short wheelbase model that isn't going to fit even half your belongings in it. Didn't the rental guy know you meant one of those really big ones? Or maybe it is big – one of those big ones with the box on the back, known as a Luton van.

They certainly have loads of room, but if your Luton doesn't have a tail lift, be prepared for some awkward heavy lifting – they are a lot higher off the ground than a panel van.

Vans may not be the most exciting vehicles in the world, but they sure as hell are some of the most useful vehicles around. You can drive almost all of them on a car license, they are pretty easy to handle, don't use much more fuel than a car and can have anything from moderate to colossal amounts of space inside.

You just need to know what you need – SWB, LWB, Luton or something else?

I've been round the block where vans are concerned – from my first rental experiences where I did exactly what I described above and asked for a Transit-sized van – to my present position, where I own a van and have driven a great many.

Incidentally, the last time I moved house the van I hired was written off the day before my booking, so I ended up with a slightly smaller one. The result was an extra 250-mile round trip, as the load space was a metre shorter and I couldn’t fit everything in...

Getting the wrong size isn't just a pain in the neck – it will hurt your wallet too; it did mine!

Online van rental is now pretty easy, with most of the major rental companies offering a selection of vans online. The problem is that they don't always offer much in the way of helpful advice – you have to know what you need.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Van-Hire---How-To-Save-Money-and-Time&id=567554

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Truck Rental For Moving Small Or Big

If you are moving across the country or just across town, using a truck rental may be an option that you have looked in to. Renting a truck is the best and easiest option to transport your belongings. You can find many rental services that offer moving truck rentals. Rather than having to round up every truck you can get your hands on and a ton of friends to drive and load, a single large moving truck on a lease can solve a lot of problems.

Before running out and leasing a big moving truck, however, it's a good idea to assess what you really need. In a world where many people own smaller vehicles and larger homes, moving truck rentals have become a popular choice when it comes time to relocate belongings to a new home or office. Before you even begin to look into renting a moving truck, there are some things that need to be considered. Some important points you should consider before you choose which truck rental service to work with.

Millions of persons, families and companies relocate to a new home or office every year. Many car rental companies offer special services, one of the most popular is the one way truck rental. Most rental companies pride themselves on having dependable transportation for rent; however, it will be in your best interest to check things like the door latches, locks and tires.

Budget Truck Rental and other companies have what they call commercial rental divisions, where they handle truck rental and leasing to all manner of commercial enterprises. But some of those same companies that you might associate with do it yourself movers also rent over the road semi tractor trailer combinations to individuals and companies who have qualifying CDL licenses.

But, you have probably heard the horror stories about people who have used a truck rental company and the truck was not available when they went to pick it up, or the truck broke down on the road, etc. You may even find that a small local truck rental company will give you the best service and price-especially if you are moving in town. It helps to know the history of the company before attempting to get them as a client.

Look for a company that has high standards for their trucks as well as their towing equipment, this may be more expensive, but worth it in the long run. The rental company will have a standard form for you to fill out.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Truck-Rental-For-Moving-Small-Or-Big&id=380714

Sunday, January 17, 2010

How to Achieve a Stress-Free Car Rental - 5 Keys to Success

The average car rental is a process that should be given more than last minute attention during travel. Unfortunately, many families (and business travelers) fail to do a few small things in advance that could lead to a more stress-free car rental travel experience. As any frequent traveler knows, getting the car rental right at the beginning of the trip can certainly result in a much more enjoyable trip for all concerned at the end. Below are 5 keys to a successful car rental that every traveler should make note of:

1. Do a little homework. As with any wise buying decision, even a little preparation can save dollars. For example, the wise and experienced traveler will make sure their own automobile insurance is up to date and sufficient for their planned car rental needs. It is widely accepted that travelers need not take the rental company insurance offered if their own coverage can protect them adequately. The only exception to this might be: lack of insurance because the renter does not have a personal car. In this case, the higher-priced rental company insurance is better than none at all.

2. Understand your rental agreement. Wise car rental customers will make absolutely sure they understand the terms and requirements of any car or vehicle rental agreement. This is a major part of preparation for travel and car rental, and should not be something that is studied only when a problem arises. Some details that should always be confirmed include: 1) How many miles are allowed per day (experienced rental customers agree that unlimited mileage is best for most travelers), and 2) Is the customer required to refill the gasoline tank when the car is returned? Rental companies generally offer a fuel option that allows the customer to pay up front for a tank of gasoline. This means that the driver can return the car without filling the tank. In most cases it is best to buy gasoline when needed, filling the tank just before returning the car.

3. Know what you are renting. While many travelers will actually consider insurance, mileage and gasoline when you rent a car, most will not take the time to look at the car's physical condition to check for dents, scratches and other appearance problems. Feedback from customers and customer complaints indicate that car rental companies will sometimes try to blame these problems on the current renter. To avoid this difficulty, wise car rental customers will point out any problems prior to taking the car, making sure that the company representative notes scratches, dents and upholstery problems, in writing. Tip: Experienced renters use their digital cameras to document any problems before driving away.

4. Look for value but pay for happiness. The car rental industry has grown quickly and now includes dozens of choices. This level of competition has led to reduced prices, even from some of the top-name companies. Of course, the best deal for the lowest price is everyone's goal. However, experience in the field of car rentals has taught many people that the lowest price is not always the key to happiness. (It's always a good idea to pay particular attention to the "howevers.") As the choices expand, customers are tempted to choose lesser-known companies to save money. Many of these occasional renters assume that state and federal laws will protect them from any major problems. While it is generally true that the "name-brand" corporations and many smaller companies will provide a quality, worry-free experience, problems can arise with some of the smaller start-up businesses. The wise renter will be sure to clear up any doubts about terms and car conditions, especially with smaller fleet businesses. The pressure of creating and growing a business may lead some to cut corners. In the end, the customer may have to pay for that pressure.

5. Stress the small details. There are a number of items in the small print of rental agreements that can add to or subtract from the overall cost you finally end up paying. Two that should be understood fully at the start are: 1) Return requirements – Is the original renter required to bring the car back to the same location? There may be a charge for returning the vehicle to another site. 2) Will there be an extra charge if the driver is under a particular age. Companies may include a surcharge if the driver is under 25, for example. These are the most popular and can mean hidden charges at the end of your trip you weren’t counting on. Make sure you read the small print and ask questions before driving that rental car of the lot.

Vacations can be hectic enough without adding the stresses of a bad car rental into the equation. The mistakes that the average traveler makes when renting a car vary from a lack of planning before the trip begins, to doing small things during the rental process that end up costing him or her more money in the end. Wise travelers can avoid these mistakes by following the five tips outlined above to achieve a successful stress-free car rental.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Achieve-a-Stress-Free-Car-Rental---5-Keys-to-Success&id=724830

Monday, December 14, 2009

Tips For the Best Airport Car Rentals

Airport car rentals provide immediacy in the quick basic travel itinerary of every traveler who is planning a good trip ahead. As a traveler, you would try to squeeze in all the expenses of the tour so that you do not end up breaking the bank before the tour is over. There are several ways of finding an affordable rate on airport car rentals.

The art of saving is achievable through proper preparation and research. The greatest revelation to the concept of cheap travel is via online research. You can easily find the best airport car rentals online.

High price cuts are observable during the weekdays. This is because the amount of tourists who are interested in hiring a temporary vehicle is at peak during the weekends and holidays. Therefore try to plan your holiday on weekdays if possible.

Other than that if you book the automobile through the Internet you may find that the charges are much lower. The mode of payment is very simple which is usually through credit cards, local bank drafts and Paypal merchant account. For international residents that wish to book online, credit cards issued from the bank which is interlinked with American Express, Visa and others, are able to be used to settle the payment online. Direct payment at the counter is highly unadvisable due to the extra surcharges which hike up the expenditure of your initial travel cost.

Apart from that, the ideal vacation is inclusive of a transportation which is easily handled and maintained by the driver therefore it is advisable that the driver gets a rentable ride which is convenient and familiar. The traveler must be able to control the vehicle by his own or else there might be an unfortunate ending to his holiday. SUVs are large and comfy but may prove to be a little bit of a hassle when going downtown where the streets are compact with vehicles at every lane.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-For-the-Best-Airport-Car-Rentals&id=3420157

Monday, December 7, 2009

Cheap Moving - Truck Rental Guidelines

Moving your valuable things from one place to another is a tedious process because it gives you stress and fatigue. Aside from transferring your personal belongings, the rental cost of vehicle might give you a headache in paying for the relocation costs and shipping expenses.

The best way to do is to rent a cheap moving truck. Many companies offer this kind of service to serve those customers who are seeking lower rental cost. You can find several relocation companies that offer coupons, which can be a big help in reducing the total expenses.

Coupons will not just offer discounts on truck rentals but also render special services on the relocation. However, you should not solely depend on the privilege that they provide. You should also consider other factors that will help you find a cheap moving truck while at the same time provides an enjoyable moving experience.

It is better to inquire different companies to compare their rental services as well as the payment differences they offer. When accessing online, you can see some of them present an option for you to fill some quotes in order to get an estimated price on your inquiry.

After getting the quotes, contact them to reserve a rental truck for you in advance to avoid future rental charges.

Never relocate on weekends or winter seasons, as this will charge you extra fees because of the trucks availability in this period. Remember, if there is a high demand in a truck and the availability of this vehicle is limited, the more expensive it will cost you.

In renting a vehicle, consider your moving necessities. Do not rent a truck in Auckland with too much loading capacity while you only have little furniture to carry.This will also cost you some rental fees as the relocation payments vary by truck sizes.

While you are waiting for the moving day to come, it will be more practical to have a garage sale of the things you are not using anymore. This will also help you save some money to cover other expenses.

In addition, a self-service moving can also be a good option for having a cheap moving truck rental. The payment shall only be the transportation of your belongings from one place to another.

Many movers are always asking if cheap truck rental will keep their belongings safe. You just need to carefully analyze the credibility of the company where you want to rent a truck.

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Cheap-Moving-Truck-Rental-Guidelines&id=3279069

Monday, November 16, 2009

Rental Car Insurance Basics

Getting proper auto insurance for a rental car is a process full of uncertainty and more than a little confusion. Should I get insurance from the rental company? Am I covered if I use my credit card to rent the car? Does my auto insurance policy cover rented vehicles? All of these are questions that come to mind when thinking about obtaining auto insurance for a rental car.

The first step you should take before renting a car is to check on your existing auto insurance coverage and with your credit card companies to find out what type of rental auto insurance you already have in place. This can be done before you ever rent a car so you enter the process with some background knowledge.

If you are renting a car for pleasure and not business, most likely the coverage and deductibles you have with auto insurance on your car will apply to the rental. If you have comprehensive auto insurance your rental car will have the highest level of coverage, but if you have dropped comprehensive or collision auto insurance on your car remember the rental won't be covered in case of theft or an accident. Also check with your auto insurance provider for any riders it might offer that might be less expensive than buying auto insurance through the rental company.

Rental car insurance offered by your credit card is going to vary widely depending on the type of card, the issuer and even the bank that provides your credit card. Typically any coverage provided by your credit card will involve damage or loss to the rental, but will exclude your personal belongings, personal liability, other cars and other's property. You should check with each credit card you carry to find out which one offers the most secondary coverage for rental car insurance.

Once you rent a car and you know where you are covered through your personal auto insurance and credit cards, you will have the option to add coverage through the car rental service. These options include: loss damage waiver, liability insurance, personal accident insurance, and personal effects insurance.

Source:- http://m.sooperarticles.com/finance-articles/insurance-articles/rental-car-insurance-basics-6849.html

Monday, November 9, 2009

How to Rent a Minivan?

When you're used to the convenience of a minivan, it can be hard to shove the whole family--and your luggage--into a smaller rental car. The good news is the travel industry is catching on to love for minivans and now most companies offer minivan rental. You'll pay more for this upgrade, but it should make for a more pleasant trip. Here's how to rent a minivan.

  1. Begin looking into minivan rentals as soon as you know the dates of your travel. People often wait to the last minute to rent cars but the earlier you look, the better deal you'll get. Plus, minivans can be harder to come by than sedans so if you procrastinate, you might not even be able to find a minivan to rent.

  2. Look online for the best prices first. Travel websites list the best available prices--which usually will be better than what a travel agency can offer.

  3. Check with warehouse clubs that you belong to. Occasionally, membership can score you better prices than what you find online.

  4. Consider booking through a "blind" website . You'll see a list of discount priced minivan rentals but won't be told the brand. Sometimes you put in a bid for a minivan rental and see if any of the car rental agencies accept it. This is the best way to save money if you don't care which company you rent from and are completely certain of your travel dates and location--since these rentals can't be refunded if plans change.

Source :- http://www.ehow.com/how_2106976_rent-minivan.html

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Planning a Car Rental

With rising gas prices, driving causes more headaches than it used to. When traveling, though, you may need to rely on a car rental. There are ways to save money if you plan well. Next time you're looking for a quality, affordable car rental, consider the following:

1. A car rental at the airport sometimes costs more than at a nearby agency. Compare prices ahead of time; it may be worth taking a taxi a few miles to pick up the vehicle at a different rental location.

2. Choose a no-frills car rental. Many less-luxurious cars get better mileage.

3. Car rental agencies usually have better deals on compact cars. If you don't need the space, why pay for it? Compact cars also get better mileage.

4. A car rental is usually more costly if you pick up the vehicle at one location and drop it off at another. However, consider the price of returning to the original locale. Is it cheaper to pay for the gas or for the drop-off? This might sway your decision a little.

5. Car rental agencies offer prepaid fill-ups when you return the vehicle. Compare their costs with the gas pump prices and decide ahead of time which is a better deal.

6. A weekly car rental usually costs less than paying for five or six days alone. If you're staying just under a week, you may want to pay this rate and return the car early.

7. Avoid purchasing insurance from the car rental company if possible. Many credit cards cover car rental insurance; in the event of collision or theft you'll be taken care of. Check your credit card agreement ahead of time.

8. Save the extra driver cost by choosing a designated driver. Some car rental agencies charge more to add a driver.

9. Look for car rental coupons in travel magazines or an Entertainment book. Agencies also give discounts to AAA and AARP members. Be sure to inquire about available deals.

Keeping these factors in mind before your car rental, you can save a substantial amount of money. Shop wisely, and know before you go!

Source:- http://ezinearticles.com/?Planning-a-Car-Rental&id=69122

Sunday, October 25, 2009

How to Rent a Van

The process for renting a passenger van or a moving van is pretty much the same. The biggest difference between the two is that moving vans usually charge a per-mile fee on top of the daily rental fee. Passenger vans usually, but not always, include unlimited mileage as part of the daily rental fee. Van rental rates vary according to the type of van rented and the rental company. Rates start as low as about $20 a day and run as high as about $70 a day.
  1. Locate a place that rents vans. If you are looking for a passenger van, look at car rental places. If you are looking for a moving van, look at moving truck rental places. Car and moving truck rental businesses are listed in the yellow pages of the phone book. (Two major rental companies are listed in Resources below.) Once you locate the rental place, call them to make sure that they have the van you are looking to rent. Make a reservation for the rental van.

  2. Provide your driver's license to the rental company so that they can make a copy. Most rental places require all drivers to be a minimum of 25 years of age. There are a few rental companies, however, that do rent to younger drivers.

  3. Fill out the rental contract. Read over the contract so that you know what you are signing and understand the terms of the rental. Some van rentals include free unlimited mileage; some make you pay per mile. Decide whether or not to purchase insurance through the rental company to cover the van. Insurance is charged at a per-day rate. The insurance covers damage that is unintentionally caused to the rental van. Consider that your personal auto insurance company might not cover damage to rental vehicles. Check with your insurance company if you are not sure of their policies. If your personal auto insurance does not cover rental vehicles, it is a good idea to purchase day-by-day coverage through the rental company.

  4. Pay for the van rental. Most rental places require a credit card or ATM debit card for vehicle rentals. Some, but not many, rental places accept cash deposits in lieu of a credit card.

  5. Return the rental van when your rental term is over. If you paid a cash deposit, get your money back. Before you return the van, make sure to fill it with gas. Fill the tank at least to the level that it was when you first rented the van. Rental companies charge exorbitant per-gallon fees for vehicles that are returned with less gas than they had when they were rented. Also make sure to clean out the inside of the van before you return it. Rental companies charge a cleaning fee for vehicles that are returned excessively dirty.


Tips & Warnings
  • If you have AAA or any other type of discount card, check with the rental place to see if they will give you a discount. If you are renting the van for a week or more, ask the company about discount rates. Many rental companies offer discounted weekly and monthly rates.
  • Do not let anyone drive the rental van that is not listed on the rental contract. If they are not listed on the rental contract and they get into an accident, you will be held financially responsible. Rental insurance does not cover unauthorized drivers.
Source :- http://www.ehow.com/how_4777557_rent-van.html