Rent a car guide

1. Make sure you book a vehicle that is suitable for your needs.

Think carefully about what kind of vehicle you'll need. If you're traveling with children or with a lot of gear, you may want a large sedan or SUV. If you're simply looking to save money on rental rates and gas, you'll want to reserve the smallest available model.

Obvious things to consider are the luggage capacity, size of vehicle, number of doors and seats.

Many rental companies use the ACRISS Car Classification Codes for classifying vehicles. This table illustrates the international classification of vehicles.

Many rental companies use the ACRISS Car Classification Codes for classifying vehicles. The code has four letters, each of which represents an attribute of the vehicle. Car groups are defined by the standard vehicle matrix as shown below. Car codes are created by selecting one character of each column and combining them into a four-character car code:

e.g.: CCMN = Compact Car - 2/4 Door - Manual Transmission - Non air-conditioned

2. Read the car supplier terms and conditions carefully

If you're booking online, read the terms and conditions carefully before confirming your reservation. Be sure you understand the conditions of your reservation. Is there a penalty for no-shows? How long will the car be held if you're stuck in traffic on the way to the pickup station? Is there a fee for additional drivers and must their names be listed in the contract? Is your 20-year-old daughter old enough to drive the car? For liability reasons, this is important.

Make sure that you fully understand what is included in the price. Most companies will have an Insurance Excess amount which will be charged in the event of damage or theft.

Before you book you should check the following terms and conditions:

• Drivers Age
• Drivers License
• Additional Driver
• Coverage / Insurance
• Breakdown Assistance
• Fuel Policy
• Mileage
• Tax Rate
• Payment Method
• Voucher
• Additional Extra Conditions

3. Assure your vehicle with a small down payment

When booking a rental car online at IzziRent.com, we require that you submit a small down payment. We do this for your own protection and benefit. Paying a deposit guarantees that a rental vehicle will be available at the location and time requested.

1. Familiarize yourself with the traffic sign symbols and traffic rules for the country you are traveling to.

Plan your route in advance and allow extra time in case you take the wrong turning.

2. Read the paperwork

Read the paperwork thoroughly so that you know where to collect your vehicle and which telephone numbers to call in the event of any problems.

3. Before you leave home make sure you have the following:

• Care rental voucher
• Valid driving license
• Credit Card
• Passport or identity card

1. Produce your voucher, credit card and driving license

It is imperative that you have your car rental voucher in your possession. If you do not use your voucher at the time of collection of the vehicle, the car rental supplier may ask you to pay more or refuse you your rental.

All car rental companies require a valid drivers license. In some foreign countries, an international drivers license may be required.

You will need a credit card to guarantee the car rental payment. It is used for preauthorisation, i.e. the reservation of funds in the amount of rental and deductible franchise. Be aware of your credit card limit; many car rental companies require immediate credit approval before renting the car which can substantially reduce your remaining balance of credit. If the required preautorisation amount exceeds your credit card limit you may be denied the rental vehicle.

A credit card is normally required when you collect the vehicle, so if you are in possession of a debit card only, you will need to check that this is acceptable. Most companies do not accept cash for security reasons.

2. Read the rental agreement carefully

When signing the car rental agreement, make sure to read the contract carefully. Double check your rental car insurance policy if you have opted to purchase it. Make sure your mileage limit, or unlimited mile status is clearly visible on the front of the rental contract. Be sure you understand the contract.

3. Understand insurance details

Carefully read all insurance details including any additional insurances agreed and paid for at the desk. Feel free to ask the agent to explain anything you are unsure of on the rental agreement before signing.

1. Check the car for damage

Check the vehicle for any pre-existing damages which have not been marked on the paperwork. Report any damage not shown on the rental agreement to the supplier representative. Make sure they sign off the damage on the rental agreement before driving the vehicle.

Be sure the lights and turn signals are working properly, and check the mileage odometer. Report any defects at once.

2. Ensure that all additional equpment requested is included

Check the equipment to ensure it is adequate for your needs. Any issues please bring them to the supplier representative’s attention. Any additional equipment is paid for at the desk.

Check the condition of the tyres (including the spare wheel), check the level of washer fluid and, if necessary, make sure that any safety equipment has been provided.

3. Check what kind of fuel the car needs

Diesel or petrol?

Check that the level of fuel in the vehicle is correct according to your rental paperwork.

4. DO NOT forget to take your copy of the contract!

Keep all papers relating to your rental agreement with you in a safe place. You may need to refer to them when you get to the drop-off point.

5. Become familiar with the car

Adjust your seat and mirrors. Locate the controls for the turn signals, windshield wipers, lights (high and low beams) and cruise control (if applicable). Notice the placement of the horn and control panel for defroster, air conditioning, etc.

6. Know the route of your journey

Most major car rental companies offer free local maps. Plan your route before leaving the car rental lot to minimize the need to ask for directions. Ask the supplier representative for a map or advice if needed.

1. Arrive on time to the drop-off point

Since most rental agencies operate on a 24-hour period, ensure enough time to return the car. Make sure you leave enough time to return the car so you don't get charged an extra day. Even if you're late 3 or 4 hours, you'll probably be charged an extra day. If you're catching a flight, then give yourself enough leeway to return the car and to get to the airport on time.

2. Check the car for damage

When you drop off the vehicle, check for damage and bring it to the representatives attention. Make sure that damage is documented by a supplier representative.

If you have a digital camera, take photographs of the vehicle in case it is damaged after you leave it. This is especially important if you’re dropping the car off when the rental office is closed and no agent is available to sign off on the return.

3. Ensure that the car hire agent representative signs off the drop-off

Make sure to have the rental agreement signed off by the supplier representative. Try to give yourself ample time before the leaving. Examine your rental agreement carefully for all charges. Make sure they credit any deposit to your account at that time.

4. Don't leave any personal items

Before leaving the vehicle, check you haven't left any personal belongings. Don't forget to check the car boot!