Marlborough, MA - August 1, 2013 - Rental cars have become essential for many vacations or business trips, but rental contracts are often misunderstood. Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Eastern MA, ME, RI and VT advises consumers to read contracts carefully.
Rental cars are a great convenience for travelers, but rental car contracts can be complicated. Consumers need to read the fine print before signing a contract and be aware of any extra fees that may apply. They can check a rental company’s reviews and complaints at bbb.org.
Renting a car can be a great convenience when you’re traveling to regions without good public transportation or taxi service. But it’s always wise to understand the provisions of a rental contract and any limitations on the use of a vehicle.
BBB offers the following tips for rental cars:
Ask for discounts: If the advertised price is higher than you want to pay, ask whether discounts apply if you’re a senior citizen or a member of an automobile club. Discounts also may be available for certain dates, weekends or longer trips.
Consider location: Renting from an airport-based rental facility often is more expensive than an off-airport location, usually because of taxes and surcharges the airport charges the rental company.
Look for package deals: Some airlines may offer discounted rates if you purchase more than one service, such as a flight, rental car or hotel stay.
Compare gas rates: Some rental businesses offer to sell you a full tank of gas so you don’t have to fill up the tank before you return the car. Compare the full-tank charge to the prevailing cost of gasoline in the area where you’re renting. In some cases, the convenience of not having to refill the tank can be worth the extra money. In others, it makes sense to top off the tank yourself.
Understand insurance: Check your car insurance policy before you leave home. In many cases, your policy will cover damage to a rental vehicle and you can skip insurance through the rental contract.
Ask about late or early return fees: Some renters have been surprised at being charged a fee for returning a car early or late. Sometimes, the penalty may be deducted from your deposit. If you’re traveling over a holiday or have to return the car outside of regular working hours, ask whether the office will be open or if you need to drop keys in a lock box.
Ask for the final price: Make sure the rental agent explains all of the charges before you sign the contract and drive off the lot. It can prevent surprises later.
Check the record: A BBB Business Review will show whether a company has complaints and how those complaints have been resolved. Go to bbb.org to check out a rental car business and read reviews.
For more information you can trust, visit bbb.org or check us out on Facebook.
