Frequently
Asked Questions
How does the planetcarhire.com operate ?
We have negotiated special discounted rates with leading rental companies around the world. These include Alamo, Budget, Europcar, National, Sixt, Thrifty, Irish Car Rentals and many more.
We search our database of suppliers for the best rate possible.
We ask you to pay a booking deposit when you reserve your vehicle through planetcarhire.com. You pay the balance of the rental amount when you arrive at your destination.
Which rental company will I be renting with?
Our system automatically finds the lowest cost rental available from the various companies we deal with. Worldwide, our partners include Alamo, Budget, Europcar, National, Sixt, ICR, Thrifty and many more.
How does the planetcarhire.com reservation process work ?
We have negotiated special discounted rates with leading rental companies around the world. These include Alamo, Budget, Europcar, National, Sixt, Thrifty, Irish Car Rentals and many more.
When you select your travel dates, pick up and drop off locations, we will search our database for the best rates available.
We will display the rates in the local currency.
When you choose a specific car type we will ask you to submit a reservation request and supply your credit card details for the reservation deposit. We do not take a deposit until we actually confirm your booking.
You will receive a Booking request number at this point.
When we receive your request we contact the specific car rental company and make a reservation for you (this can take up to 48 hours)
When confirmed by the rental car company we will then contact you via email with your Booking Confirmation number. This Booking confirmation will again give you full details on your car rental.
At this point we process the reservation deposit.
You pay the balance of the rental to the car rental company when you arrive.
Is your Secure Server Safe?
Yes, our Secure Server is certified by "Thawte". Any information you enter is encoded and can only be read by planetcarhire.com.
What kind of car can I expect?
All our suppliers operate the most modern fleet of cars in their respective countries.
planetcarhire.com or any of its suppliers cannot guarantee a particular make or model of car but we will guarantee that a car within the "Car Group" will be available for collection as required. Specific requests for Cars with CD Players, airbags etc: and or other features cannot be guaranteed as being available but we will make every attempt to supply if you request them in advance.
It is recommended that travellers with additional luggage such as Golf Clubs or Fishing equipment rent a vehicle one class above the normal requirements, to allow for comfort.
Can I pay the whole amount now?
We can only accept the reservation deposit. You pay the balance to the rental company on collection of the vehicle. The amount due to at the time of reservation and the amount due on pick up will always be clearly indicated.
Can I pay the deposit and balance with different credit cards?
Yes. We can accept someone else's credit card for the reservation deposit. However, on collection of the vehicle the main driver MUST pay the balance of the charges using their own credit card. Cash rentals are NOT accepted by the rental companies we work with.
Why do you need my flight number?
If you are arriving by air (or ferry) it is VERY important that you supply us with your incoming flight number and name of Airline. We pass this to the rental company. If your flight or ferry is delayed the rental company will monitor your flight arrival time and will hold the vehicle rather than renting it to someone else.
What if I'm going to be late ?
On your Booking Confirmation document we provide the telephone number of the supplier and the depot your are due to pick the vehicle up from - Just give them a call and let them know your new arrival time.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
No problem. Just contact planetcarhire.com by telephone, e-mail or fax 72hrs BEFORE your pick up date and we will cancel the booking with the rental company and arrange a full refund of your reservation deposit. In the event of flight cancellation or last minute emergency we will normally refund your deposit in full.
How long are quotations valid?
All our quotations are valid for 7 days. If your quotation is more than 7 days old and you have not already booked then you should visit our web site and obtain a new quotation.
I'm already on my rental but need the car for a while longer, what should I do?
If you rental has already started you should contact the depot you picked up from. You'll find the contact details on your Booking Confirmation. Unfortunately, with some companies you may be charged a higher daily rate.
Do you send any documentation to me when I reserve with planetcarhire.com ?
Yes! When you make a booking we check with the rental company if the vehicle is available. If it is, then we will forward you a Booking Confirmation document by e-mail. The booking confirmation will contain full details on the car rental company you will be using when you pick the vehicle up, deposit amounts and details on the terms and conditions pertaining to your specific rental.
What if the vehicle I requested is NOT available when I submit a reservation request ?
In the event of unavailability due to heavy demand on the vehicle requested for the dates specified we will contact you by e-mail.
We will normally have checked with the rental company what is available and try to book something which may suit your needs. We will then contact you by e-mail or phone to confirm that you wish to proceed.
NO charge is made to your credit card until we have secured a vehicle for you.
What if something goes wrong when I'm trying to collect the vehicle?
In the unlikely event of complications it is very important to remain calm. Chances are you're in a foreign country and getting frustrated will not help matters. If the rental company can not help, if possible, give our offices a call and we will do everything we can to resolve the problem for you.
How old do I have to be to rent a car from planetcarhire.com?
The minimum age limit is usually 21 but some countries allow you to pick the vehicle up when you are over 18. Please read the terms and conditions pertaining to the supplier that we select for your specific dates. Please note most suppliers will have an additional under age fee. Full detail will always be outlined in the specific terms and conditions
How can I ensure I receive the best rate available?
We will search our database for the best rate we have. The best rate is always online.
How do I determine whether or not to accept the various additional insurance options available at the time of rental?
The price quoted by planetcarhire.com includes all mandatory insurances, taxes, tees etc. On your confirmation voucher we will fully explain what additional insurances and any extras you may purchase when you arrive. This will allow you make your mind up about any option. It is entirely your choice to accept or decline any additional insurances.
What happens if the car is damaged, stolen, or in an accident?
You should contact the rental car company and or the local law enforcement agency. These details will be provided to you by our suppliers at the time you collect your vehicle.
What other additional charges should I check on?
Our rates will always include the compulsory insurances you require to drive the vehicle away. Please read the terms and conditions pertaining to the rental company we offer you before you reserve your vehicle.
What is Not included in your rates ?
Personal accident insurance
Fuel charges
Parking and traffic fines
Out of hours charges (where applicable)
Optional extra insurances which may be purchased on arrival
One way rental charges where if not indicated where applicable
Young drivers charges where applicable
Should I bring a child seat with me or will the rental location furnish one?
Most car rental companies will be able to supply a child / infant seat on request. You should request same at time of booking. We will advise you in advance if this is not possible.
Does planetcarhire.com offer One Way Rentals?
planetcarhire.com does offer one way rentals. They are usually subject to a one way fee which will be outlined in the terms and conditions of each car rental company in each country. Before choosing a one way rental please ensure you are familiar with any charges that may apply.
Does planetcarhire.com offer cross border Rentals?
In most cases you can pick up your vehicle in one country and drive to another country, as long as you return the vehicle to the original pick up location (failure to do so will result in a one way charge). However, there are some exceptions to this general rule. If you are planning to drive between different countries, you should advise us in advance and we will make the necessary enquiries for you.
What is the fuel policy?
Most of our suppliers offer two fuel options. You may take the vehicle full of fuel and return it full, in which case you will receive a full refund. Alternatively you may take the vehicle full of fuel and return it empty, in which case there will be no refund. In either case, a refund for a partially full tank of fuel is at the discretion of the suppliers we deal with. They will outline their policy at the time you collect your rental vehicle.
What happens if the car breaks down during my rental?
All our suppliers offer 24 hour roadside assistance on all vehicles rented by them. Full details will be provided by the supplier when you collect your vehicle.
Who is authorised to drive the vehicle ?
The primary named driver and all additional named drivers must meet the rental company’s standard rental qualifications. All drivers must appear at the rental counter with the primary renter and present a valid driver's license. All additional drivers must sign the rental agreement. Car Rental companies reserve the right the refuse any individual to drive their vehicles.
Can I take the seats out of a minivan for extra luggage space ?
Unfortunately this is not possible with any of our partners. |
