Understanding Europcar's Grace Period for Car Rental Returns
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Europcar allows a 29 minutes tolerance period at the end of the rental. However, the vehicle must be returned to the Europcar station at the latest on the date and time shown on the rental agreement document. The rental period is calculated per 24 hours non-divisible from the time of pick-up of the vehicle.
Late Return Fees
Late return fees may apply if you return your rental car after the agreed-upon return date and time. Europcar recalculates the rental rate by adding an additional day for every 24 hours you keep the vehicle past the original return time. This means that if you rented the car for 5 days but return it 2 days late, you'll be charged for a 7-day rental. It's important to note that each 24-hour period started counts as a full rental day, and Europcar's rates are based on daily rates, calculated as 24 hours from the start of the rental.
Rental Extension
Europcar allows for rental extensions, but customers need to contact the pickup station, which will provide approval. A dedicated extra fee will be charged.
Returning the Car on Time
To avoid late return fees or additional rental charges, it's important to return your rental car on time. Make sure to allow plenty of time for traffic and unexpected delays. If you think you may be late returning the car, contact the rental office as soon as possible to discuss your options.
Returning the Car Early
If you need to return the vehicle earlier than the date and time stated on the Rental Agreement, you may do so. However, the rental charges will remain the same (i.e. as if you had not returned the vehicle to Europcar before the return date and time stated on the Rental Agreement), as Europcar will not refund any unused daily rental or accessory charges.
Summing Up:
In conclusion, Europcar has a grace period policy that allows renters a certain amount of time to return their rental car after the scheduled rental period has ended. Customers have a 29-minute tolerance period, but the vehicle must be returned to the Europcar station at the latest on the date and time shown on the rental agreement document. Late return fees can be charged, and rental extensions are possible with an extra fee.