Understanding car rental fees will help you steer clear of car rental rip-offs and make your vacation hassle-free. Before finalising the deal, ask about the fees involved to avoid surprises. Below are some of the charges and fees you may encounter during a car rental at auckland airport. Take note of this list as you begin your search for a car rental company for your next vacation to New Zealand.
State/City/County Taxes
Besides the company’s own sales tax rates, they may also add the required state, city and county taxes without you knowing. Other fees may include an “energy recovery fee” or a “vehicle licensing fee”.
Fuel Charges
Most companies require clients to return the car with a full tank gas. If you fail to do so, they will charge you with their price for gas, which needless to say is more expensive than the actual refill at the nearest gas station. Other companies suggest that clients “pre-purchase” the full tank gas before taking the car so they no longer need to pay for additional fees to fuel up when returning the car.
Mileage Fees
Depending on the car you choose, some companies may implement daily mileage caps especially when renting high performance vehicles and SUVs. If you plan to drive far and a mileage cap will limit your vacation, select a company that offers that best options in terms of mileage.
Roadside Assistance
Find out whether roadside assistance is already included in the price of the car rental or if the company is going to charge a fee for it. After that, ask about the coverage of the roadside assistance (flat tire, lockout, etc.).
Out-of-State Fees
Not all car rental companies will allow you to drive out of a certain geographical area. Ask how much you will be charged for driving out of state or whether it is allowed at all.
Driver Fees
Tired of your driving duties? Car rental companies do not allow just anyone to drive the car—even your spouse. If you register a spouse or another family member as an additional driver, the company charges you with a driver fee. If you are below 25 years old, you are considered as an underage driver and will be allowed to drive the car for an additional fee.
Equipment Fees
Extra items such as a baby car seat and a navigation system are considered as extra items and acquire a fee as well.
Late/Early Return Fees
While most rental companies give grace periods if you return the car a few hours after the deadline, others charge a late return fee. If you will be at least half an hour late, call the company to know whether it would be better to extend the rental for another day or just pay for the fee.
Returning the car early is not always a good thing, either. Some companies may charge an early return fee if you return the car more than one day before schedule. If you really must return the car early, it is best to call the company first.