How to avoid unnecessary car hire charges
When you’re arranging car hire of any kind it makes sense to be armed with all the facts before you sign on the dotted line. While we all like to think that we spend ample time studying the small print of any agreement, the truth is we may have little time to take it in fully.
When it comes to car hire there are a number of unusual elements to the contract that could see you paying unnecessary charges once the vehicle is returned and here is a brief guide as to how to avoid them.
Most hire companies will give you a full tank of petrol and then ask that you return it in the same condition as it left the forecourt. If you neglect to do this, then you could pay a higher price for the fuel that the hirer uses to fill up and in addition, you may be asked to pay a ‘fuelling charge’ on top.
In rare cases, some car hire firms may ask you to provide a receipt for your fuel purchases so remember to obtain one to prevent any problems from occurring. On occasions, drivers will rent a vehicle for a small local trip and hope that the fuel gauge hasn’t moved enough to be noticeable to the hire firm. This is why the measure has been introduced and while it’s still quite rare, it makes sense to get a fuel receipt when you top up.
Car hire companies will look for reimbursement with regards to the slightest of damage. Even if you scuff the tyres when you’re driving the car, you will be asked to repay any costs so remember that you are liable for problems of this kind.
Late return fees can also be a contentious issue under any car hire contract so make sure you fully understand the requirements of the individual hirer as to the exact time they need the vehicle back. Often there is a very small period of grace and it could be less than half an hour so always aim to return on time. If you are late because of traffic or other circumstances beyond your control, try to pull over and phone ahead to alert the company of any problems.
Early return fees can also apply in some cases so be fully aware of timings before you sign the contract.
One of the more obvious stipulations to look for concerns mileage limitations and these will generally come into play if you hire the vehicle for a longer period of time, such as a month or maybe more.
If you are likely to stray over the limit, additional charges can be punitive so try to get as high a mileage limit as possible under your car hire agreement.
The majority of car hire contracts are very transparent and there should be no nasty surprises waiting for the driver when the vehicle is returned. However, it is advisable to be aware of any potential charges before you agree to any contract of this kind.
