Can You Return a Rental Car Early? Rules, Fees & Refunds
When it comes to whether it is possible to drop off rentals before the scheduled time, the answer is - yes, you can return a rental car early. However, one must understand the related rules and limitations.
For instance, when a rental car is returned early, the renter may not get the refund for the fee they have paid for the unused days. Moreover, the car rental company may recalculate the rates or fees to adjust the prices.
Keep in mind that return rules may vary from one car rental company to another.
Why Renters Return the Car Early?
People return the car early when unavoidable circumstances occur. Additionally, an unexpected change in the travel plans can also lead to early returns. However, there are many other reasons for returning a rental car early:
Schedule Change: The trip or business meeting may end sooner than the expected time. This means car rental is no longer needed.
Personal or Medical Emergencies: Unpredicted scenarios, such as health-related issues or family emergency can force the renter to return the car early.
Cost Avoidance: In general, early returns do not offer refunds, it can help in saving parking fees, hotel charges, fuel expenses, and others.
Changing the Transportation Method: Sometimes, renters may need to change the transportation mode from car rentals to ride-sharing or public transit. This also means early returns.
Important: Before returning a rental car, go through the company’s precise policy, refund-related rules, and other aspects.
Can I Drop-Off a Rental Car Early and What to Expect?
Yes, you can return your rental car early. However, several aspects are there that one should know or expect while returning the car:
No Refunds: Most car rental service providers, such as Enterprise, Avis, and Budget, charge for the entire rental duration. This means if someone is returning the car early, they will not get any refund for the unused period.
Early Return Penalties/Fees: With some car rental companies, early return charges/fees may occur. This is specifically applicable when the car is returned right after the pick-up. So, check the early return fees beforehand.
Price Adjustments: If the rental prices were set on the monthly or weekly rates, the charges will be adjusted for early returns. This means the car rental company may charge based on the daily rates, which are undeniably higher than weekly or monthly rates.
What to Know While/Before Returning a Car Rental Early?
Several aspects are there that should be understood by the renter before or while returning the rental car. This will ease the return process and help them avoid surprise penalties.
Read the Agreement: Before returning the car, always check the agreement and read the “modification” or “early return” clauses.
Changes in the Rates: The car rental company may convert the lower and discounted weekly/monthly rates into higher daily fees. This will increase the overall cost or reduce the refunds (if offered).
Early Communication: Always call the company to notify them about the early return or change in the plan. This will keep issues or confusions at bay.
Fuel Policy: To avoid high penalties, it is recommended to refuel the tank before returning. If it is not done, the company will charge a fee for it.
Clean the Car: For dirty and messy cars, car rental companies charge extra. So, it is better to clean it before returning to avoid those penalties.
Submit Photos: Show the timestamped pictures or videos of dents or damage that are captured at the time of pick-up to mitigate additional charges.
Take Out All Belongings: Check the car thoroughly and take out everything from the cabin, under the seats, glove box, trunk, etc., before returning the car.
Collect the Final Receipt: While returning the car early, do not forget to collect the receipt confirming the returns and explaining adjusted charges.
Important: Some companies may charge an additional fee of USD 10 to USD 20 for early returns. Therefore, collect the relevant details for a better idea.
Conclusion
Returning a rental car early is not as complicated as it seems. However, one must know the rules and regulations, along with the additional charges (if any), to make the process seamless and quick. Keep in mind that early return rules may slightly vary from one service provider to another. So, make sure to go through the return rules of the respective company before returning the car early.
