Knowing what it takes to return a rental car can save you time and money, as well as avoid unwanted surprises. Learn seven easy steps to get your car back in fast and hassle-free.

Returning the car can be done quickly. Read the following tips to make your car return faster and hassle-free.

To rent a car in Karachi, contact Carlay Car Rental. It is a well-known Car Rental Company.

1) Plan your route

Allow plenty of time for your trip. The rental company charges a penalty for late car returns. So make sure when the car has to be returned. Online maps can predict travel times. If you’re not sure where to go, you can call the rental company. You can find their phone number in the rental letter.

2) Find the nearest gas station

Most rentals have a ‘full to full’ fuel policy. This means that the car is fully fueled when it is picked up and must be fully refilled when it is returned.

Online maps can help you find the nearest gas station from your car return point. When you buy fuel, ask for a receipt if only you have to prove the gas tank is full.

Other fuel policies, such as ‘pre-purchase’, mean you don’t have to return the car full of gas. To confirm your fuel policy, read the Rental Terms & Conditions or your confirmation email.

3) Look for the sign

At the airport, you may see a ‘Rental car refund’ sign. If you don’t find the mark, go to where you took the car.

4) Take some photos

the man in the blue shirt takes a photo of a silver car with a smartphone

Taking photos of the condition of the car when it is returned can help if there are problems with damage after rental.

After you park properly, take a photo of the fuel and mileage indicators. Then take photos of the front, back, and sides of the car. This can come in handy if you incur unexpected costs for damage and extra mileage or short of fuel.

5) Check your belongings again

In addition to baggage, also check the dashboard drawers, door compartments, under chairs, and pockets behind seats. Apart from your belongings, be sure to bring all the documents that the counter staff gave you when picking up the car. This document is useful in case of problems later.

6) If there are staff in the parking lot …

Wave your hand to let you know you’re ready to return the car. They may inspect the car with you, provide you with a rental completion document (often called a ‘check-in form’), and collect the car keys. After they confirm everything is OK, they will open or refund your security deposit (but this may take up to two weeks).

7) If you don’t see the staff in the parking lot …

Look for a car key return box. This box has the name and logo of the rental company. The return box is useful when there are no staff on duty or the office is closed. 

If you can’t find a car key return box, look for information or a phone number at the office door.