Depending on the car rental company, you may encounter various types of penalties. For example, if you wanted to drive from New York City to Hartford, Connecticut, but plan to fly back versus driving back, what penalties might you face? Here are some:
Return location fee
This is the most common penalty when returning a rental car to a different location. It is an extra fee that is charged to cover the cost of miles, fuel, and driver costs to return it to the original location. Usually, the distance from the drop-off location and the original location are taken into consideration to calculate the amount of the fee. You must weigh whether or not this fee is worth it to you over returning the car to your original location.
Higher rental rate
In some cases, the rental company may charge a higher rental rate for one-way rentals compared to returning the car to the same location. This is because one-way rentals may involve additional costs for the rental company.
Returning the car yourself
Some companies may refuse to accept the car at a different location and order you to return the car to its original location. While not a monetary penalty, the inconvenience of having to return the vehicle to the original pickup location yourself when you did not plan on it would likely cause problems in your travel plans, as well as cost you additional gas and mileage.
Mileage restrictions
One-way rentals might come with mileage restrictions, which means you are allowed to drive a certain number of miles without incurring additional fees. If you exceed the mileage limit, you may be charged an extra fee per mile.
The following is a sample list of some car rental companies and their policies.
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car:Enterprise typically charges a one-way fee for rentals where the pickup and drop-off locations differ. The fee can vary depending on the distance and duration of the rental. However, Enterprise allows unlimited mileage for most one-way rentals within the same country.
- Hertz: Hertz usually charges a one-way fee for rentals returned to a different location. The fee is based on factors like distance, location, and duration. Hertz offers a tool on their website where you can estimate one-way rental fees based on your specific travel details.
- Avis:Avis applies a drop-off fee for one-way rentals. The amount varies depending on factors like distance, locations, and rental duration. Avis also offers a tool on their website to estimate one-way fees.
- Budget:Budget charges a drop-off fee for one-way rentals, which can vary based on factors such as distance, locations, and rental duration. They also provide an online estimate tool for one-way rental fees.
- National Car Rental: National Car Rental may charge a one-way fee for rentals returned to a different location. The fee depends on various factors such as distance, locations, and rental duration.
To get accurate and up-to-date information on one-way rental fees, visit the websites of the rental companies or contact them directly. Additionally, read the terms and conditions of the rental agreement before making a reservation to understand the charges.
