Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Turkey. With its stunning coastline, historical sites, and vibrant cities, a rental car allows you to travel at your own pace. However, the process can be tricky, especially when picking up or dropping off your vehicle outside business hours. In this blog, we'll explore the common challenges of renting a car after hours in Turkey and share some helpful tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly and stress-free.
After-hours car rental refers to the ability to pick up or return your rental car outside the usual operating hours of the rental office. Many people find it convenient, especially if they are arriving on a late flight or need to return the car after the office closes. While most car rental agencies provide this service, you may face challenges if you're unprepared. Let’s look at some of the most common challenges with after-hours car rental in Turkey and how to avoid them.
One of the first challenges you might face when renting a car outside regular hours is that not all rental companies offer after-hours services. Some companies may only offer this service at specific locations, such as airports or major cities, making it challenging if you're renting a car in a smaller town or rural area.
How to Avoid This Problem:
Before booking, always check with the car rental company if after-hours service is available at your pick-up or drop-off location. Finalrentals makes booking easy with online options, so you can easily check if after-hours services are available at your preferred location. If you're booking a car in a small town or rural area, consider picking up the vehicle during regular office hours or choosing a larger city with more flexible rental options.
A common issue with after-hours car rentals in Turkey is finding the key drop-off box. Car rental companies often provide a secure drop-box for returning keys. However, these drop-off locations can sometimes be hard to locate, especially in large or busy areas like airports or city centres.
How to Avoid This Problem:
When you pick up your rental car, ask the rental company about the exact location of the key drop-off box and make sure you know where it is. If you're unsure, take note of any instructions provided by the company, such as signs or specific instructions for key drop-off. Some companies may even provide a map to make things easier. Additionally, confirm if there are any additional fees for after-hours drop-off, as this can vary from one provider to another.
During the car rental, the vehicle is usually thoroughly inspected before you drive it. However, after-hours car rental often means less time for these inspections, Or you may be unable to do one. This can cause confusion during return if any pre-existing damages weren't documented at pick-up.
How to Avoid This Problem:
Before you leave the rental office, thoroughly inspect the car for any damages. Document any pre-existing issues by taking clear photos or videos of the vehicle from various angles, especially the tyres, mirrors, and body. If you’re picking up the car after hours and the office is closed, check the car for damages and contact the rental company immediately to report anything you find. This way, you won’t be held responsible for damages already there.
Some car rental companies charge additional fees for after-hours pick-up or drop-off. These fees might not always be clearly stated when you book the car, and they can surprise you when you go to return the vehicle or pick it up after hours.
How to Avoid This Problem:
Always confirm whether there are any after-hours fees when making your reservation. If unsure, ask the company to clarify these charges in writing before your trip. When you book with Finalrentals, be sure to review the terms and conditions for any extra charges related to late pick-up or drop-off, so you're not caught off guard.
Many rental companies have limited customer support during after-hours, which can lead to problems if you encounter any issues with the car or need assistance. Whether it’s a flat tyre, a mechanical issue, or lost keys, contacting customer support after hours can be challenging.
How to Avoid This Problem:
Check with the car rental company if they provide a 24/7 helpline or emergency support for after-hours rentals. Finalrentals offers round-the-clock assistance to help you with issues outside business hours, ensuring you're always supported during your rental. Save the emergency contact number in your phone for easy access if needed.
One common problem with after-hours car rentals in Turkey is the fuel return policy. Some rental companies require you to return the car with a full tank, but after-hours services sometimes don’t have a petrol station nearby that’s open when you’re returning the vehicle. This can cause issues with your return if you don’t have enough fuel.
How to Avoid This Problem:
Always refill the car before returning it, especially if you're returning it outside regular hours. Find petrol stations near the car rental office open late, or plan your fuel stops to avoid any issues. If you can’t find a petrol station, contact the rental company to ask if they’ll allow you to return the car with a little less fuel. Many agencies are flexible as long as you don’t fall short by too much.
Another common challenge with after-hours car rentals is delayed collection or drop-off. After-hours rentals may not be as streamlined as regular office hours, and delays can occur in processing your pick-up or drop-off.
How to Avoid This Problem:
To avoid delays, book your rental car well in advance and confirm your after-hours pick-up or drop-off arrangements with the rental company beforehand. Choose an airport or city location if possible, as these often have more staff and facilities to ensure quick service. Be sure to arrive at the agreed time to avoid delays in collecting or returning your vehicle.
When you return a car outside regular hours, there may not be anyone on-site to ensure your safety. Security can be a concern in some remote areas, especially when returning the car late at night.
How to Avoid This Problem:
When returning your car after hours, choose a well-lit, busy area such as an airport or a city centre with CCTV cameras for extra security. Some rental companies offer secure drop-off points that are safe and monitored, so be sure to check with your rental company where the safest drop-off location is. If you're uncomfortable with the drop-off process, contact the rental company to discuss options for a safer location.
After-hours returns can sometimes be unclear about when the vehicle is considered returned. For example, if you return the car after hours but before the office opens, it might not be recorded as a timely return, leading to extra charges.
How to Avoid This Problem:
Clarify the drop-off procedures with the rental company when you pick up your car. Ask exactly how they will handle returns made after office hours and if there are any penalties for returning the car too early or late. Keep a receipt or proof of drop-off and ensure the vehicle is parked in the designated area.
Another potential issue is that the car options available for after-hours pick-up might be limited. Some rental companies only offer certain vehicle types outside regular office hours, which could leave you with fewer choices than during the day.
How to Avoid This Problem:
If you have specific requirements for the car you want, it’s best to confirm your choice directly with the rental company in advance.At Finalrentals, we offer a wide range of vehicles for after-hours pick-up. Be sure to book in advance and confirm your selection for a smooth rental experience.
After-hours car rentals offer flexibility, but they come with challenges. To ensure a smooth experience, research policies and confirm details with your rental company. With Finalrentals, you can count on clear policies, reliable customer support, and a seamless experience in Turkey.
Book your car rental in Turkey with Finalrentals today for a hassle-free adventure. Enjoy the freedom to explore Turkey at your own pace with the right vehicle and insurance coverage!
