Understanding the Avis Grace Period: A Guide
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When renting a car, it's essential to be aware of the flexibility regarding the return time of the vehicle, including any grace period.
Avis, like most car rental companies, offers a certain level of flexibility that allows you to return the car within the 24-hour booking period, even if it's a little later than your scheduled time, without incurring additional charges.
In this guide, we'll explore this flexibility with Avis, the potential fees for late returns, and best practices for returning your rental car.
The 24-Hour Rental Period
Avis calculates its rental rates based on a 24-hour period. This means that if you've booked a car from 3 pm on Tuesday to 12 pm on Wednesday, you can return the car by 3 pm on Wednesday without incurring any extra charges.
This is because you would have had the car for a full 24 hours.
Late Return Charges
If you return the car beyond the 24-hour period, you will be charged an hourly rate based on three-fourths of the daily rate plus $0.01 for daily and weekend rates. Weekly rates are calculated as one-half the daily rate plus $0.01 for weekly rates.
After-Hours Returns
Many Avis locations offer after-hours drop-off services. Most Avis airport locations will accommodate customers who have experienced flight delays or made advanced reservations. Be sure to check with your specific Avis location to find out if they provide after-hours rental car return services.
Best Practices for Avis Returns
Contact the return branch location to re-confirm the drop-off time., if it will be later than you selected at time of booking
Ensure the new return time is not after hours. If it is, verify that the location can accommodate after-hours drop-off.
Optional coverages or equipment (e.g., GPS) are charged as full days.
Grace Periods Outside the US
For rentals outside the US, check with the local Avis branch for grace period details.
Some countries, like New Zealand, offer more generous grace periods (up to 59 minutes). Most other countries offer up to 29 minutes.
Summing Up
Avis in the US lets you return your rental car within the 24-hour booking window without additional charges.
Be mindful of potential late fees and follow best practices for returning your car during this grace period.
Always check with your specific Avis location and confirm the details for international rentals which often have different rental conditions.
