Enterprise Airport Drop-Off: Is There A Fee?

If you're planning to drop off your rental car at the airport, it's important to be aware of potential fees. Enterprise Rent-A-Car charges a drop fee if you return your vehicle to a different location than where you picked it up. This drop charge, also called a convenience fee, is meant to deter people from changing the return location and can vary from $35 to $100 or more, depending on the circumstances. It's important to check with Enterprise beforehand, as these fees can be significant, and you don't want any surprises when returning your rental car.

Dropping off a rental car at a different location

Enterprise's One-Way Rental Policy:

Enterprise offers the convenience of renting a vehicle at one location and returning it to another. This is known as a one-way rental. However, it's important to note that this service is only available at participating Enterprise rental locations.

Additional Fees:

When renting a car from Enterprise and returning it to a different location, you may encounter the following additional fees:

• Drop Charge: This is a one-time fee for returning the car to a different location. The drop charge varies depending on the rental location, return location, and time of year. Enterprise will disclose this fee when you make your reservation, and it is payable at the time of pick-up.
• Mileage Charge: In some cases, Enterprise may charge a mileage fee based on the distance between the original and new return locations.
• Higher Rental Rate: The daily rental rate for a one-way rental may be higher than the rate for returning the car to the same location.

Booking and Availability:

It is essential to book your one-way rental in advance. You can do this by starting a car rental reservation on Enterprise's website. After entering your pick-up location, select the "Return to a different location" option and then choose your return location. If a one-way rental is available, you will be able to proceed with the vehicle selection.

Returning a Vehicle to an Airport:

If you plan to drop off your rental vehicle at an airport, it's important to note that an additional drop fee may apply if you did not originally pick up the vehicle at an airport location. Many branches located at major airports are open 24/7 for your convenience.

Last-Minute Changes:

In case your plans change after you have the rental car, you should contact the rental company immediately to modify your reservation. While they may allow you to change your drop-off location, penalties and additional fees will likely apply.

Avoiding Penalties:

To avoid unexpected penalties, it's recommended to review your rental policy carefully and keep your rental company updated about any changes in your itinerary. Some companies may waive certain fees if you inform them in advance and get authorization for any changes.

One-way rental policies

Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers one-way car rentals at various locations worldwide. This option is ideal for trips across the city or country, saving you time by avoiding the need to return to the original rental location. It is also beneficial for dealing with airline delays, cancellations, or unexpected trip changes.

When renting a car from Enterprise, you can pick it up at one location and return it to another. However, some one-way rentals incur a one-time drop charge or mileage fee in addition to the rental rate. This drop charge varies depending on the rental location, return location, and time of year. You will be informed of any drop charges when booking, and they are payable upon picking up the vehicle.

The rate for a one-way rental may be higher than for a round trip. It is recommended to book one-way rentals in advance. Even if you return the vehicle within the same city, you may be subject to a drop charge, mileage fee, or higher rate.

Additionally, if you drop off your rental car at an airport location different from the pickup airport, an extra drop fee may apply. Non-airport locations typically require rental vehicles to be returned during regular business hours.

Before booking a one-way rental, be sure to review Enterprise's Border Crossing Policy to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements for your trip.

Drop-off fees at airports

When renting a car from Enterprise, it's important to be aware of potential drop-off fees, especially at airports. Here's a detailed overview of what you need to know:

Returning to a Different Location

If you plan to pick up a rental car at one location and return it to another, including airports, Enterprise may charge a drop fee. This fee, also known as a one-way rental fee, is assessed to cover the cost of transporting the vehicle back to its original location. The amount of the drop fee can vary depending on several factors, including the rental location, return location, and time of year. It's important to note that this fee will be disclosed during the reservation process and is typically payable when you pick up the vehicle.

Returning to the Same Location

Even if you return the rental car to the same location, you may still incur a drop fee if it is an airport location. This is because airports often have additional processing fees for one-way rentals. The fee may be included in the rental rate or charged separately, so be sure to clarify this during the booking process.

After-Hours Returns

If you need to return your rental car outside of regular business hours, Enterprise does allow after-hours returns at most locations, including many 24-hour airport branches. However, it's important to check with the specific rental location beforehand to understand their procedures and avoid any unexpected charges. The vehicle remains the customer's responsibility until it is checked in during the next business day.

Avoiding Unnecessary Fees

To avoid any unexpected drop-off fees, it is recommended to return the rental vehicle to the same location where it was picked up. If you need to change the return location, it's best to communicate this with the original rental branch as soon as possible. Additionally, be mindful of the rental period, as returning the vehicle early or late may impact the overall cost.

In summary, drop-off fees at airports and other locations can vary depending on your specific rental agreement and circumstances. It is always advisable to carefully review the terms and conditions of your rental agreement and clarify any potential fees before confirming your reservation. By understanding these drop-off policies, you can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary charges when renting a car from Enterprise.

Avoiding additional charges

When renting a car, it is important to be aware of the various charges that can be incurred, especially when it comes to airport drop-offs. Here are some tips to help you avoid additional charges:

Understand the Drop-Off Charges

Before renting a car, it is essential to understand the drop-off policies of the rental company. Some companies, like Enterprise, may charge an additional drop fee if you return your vehicle to a different location, such as an airport, from where you picked it up. This fee varies by rental location, return location, and time of year. Make sure to review the policies and ask about any potential drop-off charges before making your reservation.

Rent from a Non-Airport Location

Airport rental locations often charge higher rates and extra taxes and concession fees. To avoid these fees, consider renting from a nearby non-airport location. Compare prices and fees online or ask the rental clerk about locations without additional charges. Sometimes, a short ride to a different rental office can result in significant savings.

Refuel the Vehicle Yourself

Rental companies expect you to return the vehicle with the same level of fuel as when you rented it. If you don't, you may be charged an extra fee or a fuel surcharge. To avoid this, fill up the tank at a gas station before returning the car. Keep the fuel receipt, as some companies may require it to avoid any unnecessary charges.

Inspect the Car for Damages

Before driving off with your rental car, conduct a thorough inspection for any existing damages, no matter how minor. Point out and document all nicks, dents, dings, and scratches, ensuring they are noted on the rental agreement. This will help you avoid being held responsible for pre-existing damage when you return the vehicle.

Avoid Unnecessary Extras

Rental companies may offer additional extras such as GPS units, infant car seats, or extra insurance. These add-ons can increase your overall cost. Instead, bring your own GPS device or smartphone for navigation. Check if your personal car insurance policy covers rental cars, so you don't need to purchase extra insurance.

Be Mindful of Mileage Limits

Some rental companies impose daily travel limits or restrictions on driving outside a certain area. Read the terms and conditions carefully to understand any mileage restrictions. Going over the limit or driving outside the specified area can result in unexpected charges.

By following these tips and carefully reviewing the rental agreement, you can avoid many of the additional charges associated with renting a car and returning it to an airport location. Remember to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties with the rental company before finalizing your reservation.

Returning a rental car after hours

It is important to note that vehicles should typically be returned to the same location where they were picked up, unless prior arrangements have been made with the original renting location. Returning a vehicle to a different location may incur an additional drop-off fee, which varies by rental and return location, as well as the time of year. This fee will be disclosed when booking online and must be paid when picking up the vehicle.

If you want to return a vehicle when the branch is closed, you must check if an "after-hours" service drop box is available when picking up the vehicle. This will help you avoid additional charges. It is important to note that a vehicle returned after hours will not be checked in until the next business day, and the customer is responsible for the vehicle until the satisfactory check-in of the rental vehicle on that day.

Specific instructions for after-hours returns may vary by location. For example, at the Gaithersburg Frederick Ave. branch, customers are instructed to park the vehicle in front of the Enterprise office, lock it, and place the keys in the drop box located in front of the office. The customer remains responsible for the vehicle until it is inspected by an Enterprise employee and the receipt is processed the next business day.

Frequently asked questions