When you are on a trip that involves truck rentals in Toronto, it may be your instinct to rush things at the rental counter to get out on the road as quickly as possible. However, when it comes to renting a vehicle, this is definitely not the right approach.
There are many important details to review and things to check and consider before you leave the lot. Taking the time to pay attention to these matters will ultimately lead to a smoother overall rental experience.
With several minor and major things to address before beginning your journey, it is easy for certain matters to slip your mind while looking at truck rentals in Toronto. Thus, you should create a checklist to facilitate a more streamlined pick-up and ensure you get everything done.
In fact, not only should you have a checklist prepared to guide you through your vehicle rental pick-up process, but you should have one to help you through your vehicle return as well.
There are often just as many important things to remember when returning your rental car. By the end of your trip, you may not be in the right mind space to remember them all without a little extra assistance.
When you have a return checklist to rely on, all you have to do is move down the list and tick off items as you go until you are confident you have completed all of your necessary tasks and are ready to bring back your rented vehicle.
What should always be on your rental pick-up checklist?
The following are some of the things that should always be on your rental pick-up checklist:
1. Look for visible damage
Before taking your truck rental in Toronto off the lot, one of the most important things you must do is inspect all around the exterior and interior of the vehicle for any signs of damage.
Specifically, look for any cracks, chips, or dents in the body of the car or its windows. If you spot any damage, point it out to a representative from the rental company and take a few photos of it so you have evidence that this damage was pre-existing.
If there is any pre-existing damage to your rental vehicle that you do not spot or document before leaving with the car, you could potentially be blamed for it when the vehicle is returned and held liable for the cost of fixing it.
2. Check the odometer
Another important step to take is checking the odometer to see the car’s current mileage. Taking a photo of this, as well, for your records, is not a bad idea.
Often, rental companies will set a limit for how many kilometres you can travel per day as part of your rental agreement. If you go over this set amount, there are fees that could be charged on a per-kilometre basis.
Taking a picture of the odometer before driving away from your pick-up will ensure that you can keep track of your daily kilometres during the rental period.
3. Check the gas gauge
Before you begin driving your rental car, check the gas gauge. If it does not show that the car’s tank is full, mention this to your rental agent and take a photo of the gauge for your own records.
Usually, rental companies require you to return the vehicle with the same amount of gas it had when you picked it up. So, having a photo for reference will help you remember exactly how much gas to put in the car before bringing it back.
4. Familiarize yourself with the car’s controls
Before driving away, sit in the car and familiarize yourself with the location of various controls, such as the windshield wiper switches, the air conditioning, the turn signals, etc.
If there is anything you are uncertain of, the most convenient time to ask questions is during the pick-up process. That way, your rental agent can physically show you where things are or how they work.
What should always be on your rental return checklist?
The following are some of the things that should always be on your rental return checklist:
5. Review your specific drop-off time
It is crucial that you return your rental car at or before the specified drop-off time in your rental agreement, as you could be charged an extra day’s rent if you are late.
Most companies have a 30-minute grace period, but if you go beyond this, it will be up to you to deal with the extra costs. If you know that you will definitely be late for some reason, try to contact the company in advance to inform them of this.
6. Check for any new visible damage
Right before returning your rental vehicle, you should inspect the car once more for signs of damage.
Of course, it is natural for your rental to get a little dirty during its use, and you are not responsible for thoroughly cleaning the car before returning it. However, if you notice any new scratches, dents, etc. that were not there at the time of your pick-up, you may have to pay for their repair.
7. Re-check the odometer
Just as you did when you first picked up the car, you must check the odometer again when you drop it off and take another photo for your records. If you are accused of exceeding the limit set out in your rental agreement, your photos from the pick-up and drop-off times will provide evidence against these accusations.
8. Refill the gas tank
Before dropping off the rental car, consult the photo of the gas gauge you took at the time of your pick-up and ensure you fill the gas tank to the same level.
If you fail to follow this rule, the rental company will likely charge you their own rate to fill the remaining amount of gas. This figure can be up to double the going rate at most gas stations. Thus, it is always better to avoid such extra costs when possible.
How Ventures Car and Truck Rentals Can Make Your Rental Process Easier
Now that you are fully aware of the best practices to keep in mind while picking up and dropping off a rental vehicle, the only thing left to do is find a reputable and reliable rental agency.
If you need car or truck rentals in Toronto, Ventures Car and Truck Rentals can help you find the perfect vehicle to match your needs. Renting a car from us, picking it up, and dropping it off is always incredibly easy. Our team of experts are happy to help if you have any questions regarding our vehicles or rental agreements.
For more information about our truck rentals in Toronto, or to learn more about our pick-up and drop-off requirements, call Ventures Car and Truck Rentals at 1 (416) 656-3559 or contact us here.
Leave A Comment