Sachin Walls
Picking up a rental car at the airport is a convenient option for travellers, but it's important to be aware of the process and potential challenges. While most major airports have car rental services, it's recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred vehicle and avoid disappointment. Rental car counters or desks are usually located within the airport terminals or a short shuttle ride away. Late arrivals due to flight delays are accommodated by most companies, but it's essential to communicate any delays and check their after-hours pickup policies. Airport rentals may also come with additional fees and taxes, so it's worth considering the overall cost and convenience compared to non-airport locations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Picking up a rental car at the airport is convenient as it can be done immediately after landing. |
| Selection | Airport rental locations typically offer a wider selection of vehicles. |
| Hours | Rental car counters at airports usually have longer operating hours, sometimes even 24 hours. |
| Damage | There is less chance of being charged for mysterious "damage" that is found after you have rented the car. |
| Cost | Airport rentals are typically more expensive due to extra fees and taxes. |
| Flexibility | Airport rental locations may offer more flexibility in terms of late pick-ups and drop-offs in different cities. |
| Booking | It is highly recommended to book your rental car in advance, especially if you want to pick it up from the airport. |
| Identification | You will need to provide identification, booking details, and a payment method when picking up your rental car. |
| Damage inspection | It is important to check the vehicle for any damage and document it with photos or videos before leaving the rental counter. |
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What You'll Learn
Rental car availability at airports
Picking up a rental car at the airport is a convenient option for travellers. However, it is generally more expensive than non-airport locations due to various fees and taxes. Nevertheless, it offers advantages such as a wider selection of cars, extended operating hours, and the convenience of not having to go to a counter for frequent renters. It is important to note that rental car counters and vehicles may be located within or near the airport terminal, so it is advisable to check the specific airport's setup.
When booking a rental car at the airport, it is highly recommended to reserve in advance to ensure availability. Providing your flight information during booking helps the rental agencies accommodate your arrival, especially in cases of delays. Most major rental companies offer after-hour services, and some provide self-service kiosks for vehicle pickup outside of business hours.
At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), rental car locations are a short drive from the airport, and most companies provide shuttles. Orlando International Airport (MCO) houses major rental car companies in the terminal on the Ground Transportation Level, with service desks on Sides A and B. Logan International Airport (BOS) has all rental car companies at the Rental Car Center, accessible via blue and white shuttle buses from the lower level of each terminal.
Denver International Airport (DEN) has car rental service desks outside the terminal, reachable via a shuttle from Jeppesen Terminal Level 5 at Island 4. The Rental Car Center at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is just a few minutes away from the main terminal via the SkyTrain. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) directs customers to the Rental Car Center at the south entrance, with shuttle buses available from the lower section of the terminal.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers vehicle pickup from the Rental Car Center, accessible via the AirTrain Blue Line. O'Hare International Airport (ORD) provides free shuttles at the Arrivals area outside of Baggage Claim to reach the rental car companies. John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has rental car counters in the arrivals area of each terminal, and vehicles can be picked up at the Federal Circle Station via the AirTrain.
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How to locate the rental car counter
Picking up a rental car at the airport can be a confusing and stressful experience, especially after a long flight. However, finding the rental car counter is usually quite straightforward. The first step is to check your confirmation details and/or voucher from the rental company, which should provide instructions on where to go and who to contact. The rental counter could be inside the terminal building, usually in arrivals, or outside the terminal, at a car rental centre.
If the rental counter is inside the terminal, there will typically be signs to direct you to the correct location. Airport maps are usually available at information kiosks, in printed brochures, or displayed on walls throughout the terminal. These offer a detailed layout of the airport's facilities, including car rental counters. You could also download the airport's official app or visit its website for information on where to locate rental counters. If you're still unsure, airport staff will be able to help point you in the right direction.
If the rental counter is outside the terminal, there will often be a shuttle bus to take you there. Check your confirmation email or voucher for instructions on where to find the bus. If you can't find the shuttle pick-up point, look for signs near other ground transportation services, indicating "Rental Car Shuttle" or something similar. Shuttles usually run at regular intervals, but it's worth checking the schedule in advance. If the rental facility is close by, walking may be an option, and there will usually be marked pedestrian paths to guide you.
Some rental counters offer a '"Meet and Greet" service, where a representative from the rental company meets you upon arrival, often in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name or the company logo.
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Rental car shuttle services
Picking up a rental car from an airport is a convenient option for many travellers. However, it is important to note that rental car offices are often located away from the airline terminals, requiring the use of shuttle services or other means of transportation to reach them. Here is some essential information about rental car shuttle services and picking up rental cars at airports:
Picking Up Rental Cars at Airports:
When picking up a rental car at an airport, it is recommended to book your rental in advance, especially if you want to rent a specific type of vehicle. Providing your flight information during the booking process ensures that your rental car will be ready for you at the correct terminal upon arrival. Upon landing, proceed to the car rental counter, typically located in the arrivals area or near the baggage carousel. Have your identification, booking details, and payment method ready to streamline the process.
Delayed Flights and Late Pickups:
In the event of flight delays or late arrivals, most rental car companies are accommodating. Communicating any delays to the rental company is crucial, and providing your flight number during booking can help them stay informed about potential delays. Many companies offer after-hours services, and some even have self-service kiosks for vehicle pickup outside of regular business hours. However, it is always a good idea to check the specific after-hours pickup policies of the rental location before finalising your booking.
Alternative Transportation Options:
While rental car shuttle services are convenient, they may sometimes involve longer wait times, especially at busy airports. As an alternative, ride-sharing services like Lyft, Opoli, and Uber are authorised options at certain airports, offering direct drop-off and pickup at designated locations. Additionally, public transportation options, such as buses and trains, are often available at or near airports, providing another means of reaching your destination.
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After-hours rental car pick-up
Picking up a rental car from the airport after hours is possible, but it depends on the rental company and location. It is always best to communicate with the rental company if you know you will be arriving late to pick up your car.
Most major car rental companies, such as Enterprise, Avis, and Hertz, offer after-hours services at their rental locations. If you provide your flight number when booking, rental agencies will often keep their desks open for up to an hour after their regular closing time to accommodate your arrival. Some companies also have self-service kiosks that allow customers to pick up vehicles outside of business hours, usually between 6 a.m. and midnight. However, this service is not universal, and the specifics can vary by location and company. Smaller, off-site rental locations might not accommodate late arrivals that fall outside their stated business hours.
Some rental companies may have lock boxes where they leave the car keys, while others may be able to arrange for a representative to meet you. If the airport location is closed and cannot accommodate your delay, you may be able to pick up the vehicle at another nearby location with longer hours or 24-hour service. It is worth noting that picking up outside of regular business hours might incur an 'out-of-hours fee'.
Most rental car companies understand that travel plans can change unexpectedly and will typically hold the car for you until you arrive. They may also track your arriving flight and remain open on your arrival. However, each rental car company may have its own specific policies regarding delayed flights, so it is important to double-check if your rental car provider allows for a late pick-up.
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Rental car fees and taxes
Renting a car at an airport can be more expensive than non-airport locations due to extra airport fees and taxes. These additional charges can come from the airport, state and local governments, and the rental companies themselves.
Some airports have all kinds of special fees and taxes to fund local projects, such as a convention centre or a new professional sports stadium. These fees are often unavoidable, as they are imposed by the state or local government, and are added to the cost of renting a car at the airport. Rental car companies may also impose their own fees and taxes on top of those from the government.
In addition to taxes, there may be other mandatory charges associated with renting a car at an airport. For example, at certain airport locations, rental car companies are required to collect customer facility charges, airport facility charges, or transportation facility charges, which are then remitted to the airport. These charges are typically outlined in the rental agreement. Furthermore, some airports impose a fee on revenue from off-airport rental car transactions, which is then passed on to the customer as an "Airport Fee".
It is worth noting that renting a car at an airport offers several advantages, such as a better selection of vehicles, extended operating hours, and added convenience. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for higher costs due to the various fees and taxes associated with airport rentals.
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Frequently asked questions
It is highly recommended to book your rental car in advance. In some instances, there will be cars available, but it is a risk as they may be sold out.
Once you have arrived at the airport, find the car rental counter. If you included your flight information when you booked your rental car, your vehicle will be ready for you at the correct terminal. Make sure you have your identification, booking details, and payment method.
Yes, most major car rental companies offer after-hours services. If you provided your flight number in your booking, rental agencies will keep their desks open for up to an hour after their regular closing time. Some companies also have self-service kiosks that allow customers to pick up their vehicles outside of business hours, usually between 6 a.m. and midnight.
Most rental companies will accommodate late airport pickups. Contact the rental company as soon as you know about the delay and provide them with your estimated arrival time. If the airport location is closed, ask if you can pick up the vehicle at another nearby location with longer hours or 24-hour service.
