10 Things You Should Know When Renting A Car in Nigeria

A lot of Nigerians use the services of car rentals. This is usually for convenience when traveling  or just for ease of movement. Many people generally select a rental rental at random just outside an airport.

However, given the digital age, the way many businesses operate have changed from traditional to virtual. You can now arrange to rent a car online in Nigeria. Usually, you have to specify your pick up and drop off point. There are online directories where many car companies in Nigeria are featured and you can easily compare the services they offer as well as pricing of various car rental companies.

If you’re going to get great value for your car rental money, then you might want to consider these tips:

1.Get Your Credentials Right

You need to get your credentials right if you’re going to rent a car in Nigeria. Many car rental companies require that you show them paper work ready before renting a car. Some car rental companies require you to over 25 years old, have a valid driving license, a valid ID card and any other required document. Before you make any arrangements, be sure that your driver’s license is valid. If that is not the case, you can apply for prerequisite documents that will allow drive around without being charged.

2. Check the Car Rental’s Insurance Policy

You have to find out if the car has a current and valid insurance. Check if they passed a road test recently. This might seem like an overkill but it’s vital. Ask the car rental company specifically if the car’s papers are also in good order and find out when the car was last serviced. All these actions will help you avoid any form damage claims the car rental company might place on you without warning.

3. Check the Terms and Conditions

Be sure to read the terms and conditions of the car rent. You might discover some unfavorable terms or conditions if you don’t read the T&C document. Find out exactly what the rental charges cover and whether there are any extra charges payable for either dropping off or picking up the vehicle. While some companies may offer this service free, others charge a fee.

4. Request Proof of Booking

Many Nigerian don’t usually ask for receipts after purchase but when you’re renting a car you will want to ask the rental company for a receipt. Ask for confirmatory document of booking and read through the information on it thoroughly. You’ll also need your receipt in case you’re intercepted by a road official.

5. Check their Fueling Options

Check what the car fueling options are. Many rental companies tend to offer services like a car with a full tank while some give you the option of filling the fuel tank yourself. You need to decide what is best for you.

6. Aim for the Best Rates

When looking for a car rental service in Nigeria, you have to make sure that you take your time to compare different rates. Always compare for good rates. If your car rental dates are flexible, ask about the company’s special offers, promotions and discount periods. Many rental companies run promotional schemes so I you’re looking to get the best rates, be sure to know what is on offer and how it will benefit you. For some of these companies, if you book early you get better rates than when you book closer to the date of use. The rates of the car might vary depending on the kind of car you wish to rent.

7. Choose a Car Spec

Choose a car that will fulfill your needs. Find out about luggage storage and racks , how many the car will seat comfortably, and whether or not the heater/air conditioner are working.

8. Find out Payment Terms

Some companies will not accept cash payment so you have to make arrangements to carry a credit card with you for making payment. Also, find out if the company you’re working with has a contract with any car rental company. If so, you can use their relationship to make arrangements. You will also get superior service as well as a great rate.

9. Check out their Third-party Policy

If you are traveling with someone, you have to decide if that person will be driving the rental car too. If yes, you have to ask the car rental company what their policies are regarding an additional driver for a rented car.

10. Get their Emergency Numbers

This is very vital. You have to request for and take down the 24/7 customer service numbers where you can contact the car rental company in case of an emergency.

Some key areas that will affect the quality of car rental service you get in Nigeria are: quality of customer service, company flexibility, vehicle selection, and terms and conditions. The goal is to aim for a car that makes your trip easy, not a nightmare.

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