What to check when you pick up a rental car
Ten minutes at pick-up save your deposit and your nerves at return. A short checklist.
Body inspection
Walk around the car with the staff member. Photograph or film every scratch, chip, dent, wheel and window, including small ones. Make sure each damage is marked in the handover sheet.
Interior and equipment
Check that the interior is clean, the air conditioning, lights, indicators and wipers work and that there is a phone charger. The car must have a warning triangle, a first-aid kit and the vehicle documents with the insurance policy.
Wheels and spare
Look at the tyres for cuts and wear and check there is a spare wheel or a repair kit and a jack. In winter ask how the car is equipped for the season.
Fuel and mileage
Photograph the dashboard: mileage, fuel level, warning lights. Find out which fuel it needs and what level it must have when you return it. On fuel: fuel in Serbia.
The contract
Read the terms: the deposit and excess, the mileage limit, penalties, cross-border travel, returning at a different time or place and the support number for a breakdown or accident. If something is unclear, ask before you sign. On the deposit and insurance: payment and deposit, insurance.
At return
Return the car at the agreed time and place with the required fuel level. Ask the staff member to inspect it in your presence and sign the return sheet. Keep the photos and documents until the deposit is released.
Pick a car
Choose the city and dates: the price has no hidden fees. The contract is signed directly with the rental company.
Frequently asked questions
Why photograph the car at pick-up?
Photos prove the damage was there before you and protect your deposit. Photograph everything, even small things.
What if I find damage that is not marked?
Tell the staff member at once and ask them to add it to the handover sheet before you sign the contract.
When is the deposit returned?
After the car is inspected at return. The timing depends on the company: check it in the contract.
Read also
Rental terms are set by the rental company. This page is for reference: entry and document rules change, so check current information before you travel.