Car Hire Tips in South Africa
A car rental agency or a rent-a-car is a company that rents automobiles for short periods of time (ranging from a few hours to a few weeks / months) for a fee. It is an elaborate form of a rental shop, organized in numerous local branches, primarily located near airports or busy city areas. It is a self-drive form of transportation.
The internet is changing the car rental industry with companies that are now called online car rental companies. Car rentals are subject to many conditions which vary from one brand to another.
We suggest the following when booking a vehicle:
Book early
Often you will find that you can get a reduced rate by booking early. If you are booking for a time over the season, you may find that the companies are busy upgrading the vehicles, and the price may increase. Book early, and get a reservation number with confirmation of the pricing.
During busy times, it is essential that you book in advance – many people land at the airport, and the companies are out of stock.
Have your information readily available
Rather have your information handy so that when you get to the counter, the transfer is quick and easy. Have your credit card at hand, and take your driver’s license with you. If you make your car hire booking over the internet, keep a copy of your original booking which shows what you actually requested. Also print out copies of the acknowledgment emails from the car hire company.
Check the cost
The price should be made clear, but when you obtain the quote, ask for any extras you may need such as child seats etc. Also check the price per renting day. VAT (Tax) is usually included in the pricing, unless clearly stated that it is not.
In most South African car hire companies, when you pick up the vehicle, the fuel will be full. When you return the vehicle, the company will fill it up. If you fill the vehicle, make sure that you use a petrol station close to the depot, and retain your slip to show the agency.
Condition of the car
Check the condition of the vehicle before you leave with it. Any marks, bumps or scratches must be marked on the contract. Remember to check the tools in case you have a flat tyre.
Hire a suitable vehicle
You should hire a vehicle that you are comfortable with. It is not worth hiring a vehicle that you will not be happy with, or that will break down.
Driving
Stay left!
Do not go off-road, as no insurance company will cover you
Be cautious and courteous
Make sure you have enough fuel
Plan your trip
Have your cellular phone on you, or hire one
Have all emergency numbers readily available
Use a map or GPS to plan your route
Be sensible
Ask any advice, or look for a suitable vehicle from http://www.southafrica-carhire.com
The internet is changing the car rental industry with companies that are now called online car rental companies. Car rentals are subject to many conditions which vary from one brand to another.
We suggest the following when booking a vehicle:
Book early
Often you will find that you can get a reduced rate by booking early. If you are booking for a time over the season, you may find that the companies are busy upgrading the vehicles, and the price may increase. Book early, and get a reservation number with confirmation of the pricing.
During busy times, it is essential that you book in advance – many people land at the airport, and the companies are out of stock.
Have your information readily available
Rather have your information handy so that when you get to the counter, the transfer is quick and easy. Have your credit card at hand, and take your driver’s license with you. If you make your car hire booking over the internet, keep a copy of your original booking which shows what you actually requested. Also print out copies of the acknowledgment emails from the car hire company.
Check the cost
The price should be made clear, but when you obtain the quote, ask for any extras you may need such as child seats etc. Also check the price per renting day. VAT (Tax) is usually included in the pricing, unless clearly stated that it is not.
In most South African car hire companies, when you pick up the vehicle, the fuel will be full. When you return the vehicle, the company will fill it up. If you fill the vehicle, make sure that you use a petrol station close to the depot, and retain your slip to show the agency.
Condition of the car
Check the condition of the vehicle before you leave with it. Any marks, bumps or scratches must be marked on the contract. Remember to check the tools in case you have a flat tyre.
Hire a suitable vehicle
You should hire a vehicle that you are comfortable with. It is not worth hiring a vehicle that you will not be happy with, or that will break down.
Driving
Stay left!
Do not go off-road, as no insurance company will cover you
Be cautious and courteous
Make sure you have enough fuel
Plan your trip
Have your cellular phone on you, or hire one
Have all emergency numbers readily available
Use a map or GPS to plan your route
Be sensible
Ask any advice, or look for a suitable vehicle from http://www.southafrica-carhire.com
Labels: South Africa - Car Hire Tips
Posted by South Africa Car Hire at
8:17 AM
