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Owning a car is convenient, but also very expensive. You have to account for a high initial investment, ongoing repairs, or insurance payments. For many, owning a car is not worth it, and it's more advantageous to simply rent one when needed. However, finding a reliable car rental company can be challenging. What should you look out for, and what should you check when arranging a car rental?
Not all car rental companies are created equal
There are countless car rental companies in the Czech Republic. You'll also find them abroad, of course, and especially for tourists, they're an ideal way to explore a country better during a holiday and not have to rely solely on public transport. Car rental services are extensive, and in many places, you can rent a car not just for a few days, but for several weeks.
Nevertheless, you'll find huge differences between individual car rental companies. And not just in the price of rented cars. They differ in the quality of services, customer support, terms and conditions, as well as fees, car insurance, and penalties. A simple car rental can easily get out of control and become unpleasantly expensive. Therefore, it's necessary to choose a car rental company not only by price but also by the feedback of previous clients.
Reliability and fairness when renting a car
Perhaps you didn't know it until now, but Birne also operates its own car rental service. Primarily, it offers cars for operating lease, but you can also rent a car here for a few days. Or for several weeks. The rental period is entirely up to you. And if something changes? No problem! Birne Rent is completely flexible, and you can extend or shorten the rental period without any issues. And without fees or any penalties. This is certainly not common, and in many places, you would pay considerable penalties for such a small thing.
Convenient car selection at the car rental company
Some car rental companies still operate "the old way." This means that until you visit them directly, you have no idea what cars they have available. And your dream car might be missing among them. With Birne, nothing like that threatens you. You can view all available cars from the comfort of your home, office, or even from a train – online and without any restrictions.
You can also reserve the chosen car online and pick it up in as little as 2 business days. The rental period can be chosen without any limitations – and as we mentioned, changing it is hassle-free.
Careful checking of the rental agreement
When renting a car, you must, of course, sign the relevant contract. However, many pitfalls or hidden traps can appear in it. Therefore, take enough time to read it, do not rush, and do not let anyone pressure you into an ill-considered signature. Feel free to compare the data in it directly with the car you have chosen or invite a friend to service the car.
It should state exactly what kind of car it is. The odometer reading is also important. Find out if it is handed over to you with a full tank and if you have to return it with one. Also, check the details on the technical certificate and the green card (although it is no longer issued, you can often still encounter it at car rental companies). A detailed description of the external and internal condition of the vehicle and a precise list of all deficiencies are also essential.
Any catch in the contract can be exploited by an unfair car rental company, and upon return, they may demand various fees and fines from you. Fortunately, with Birne, nothing like that threatens you; everything is clearly communicated, and everything is properly documented in the vehicle rental agreement, including car insurance.
Mileage and location restrictions
Before renting a car, also inquire whether its mileage is limited in any way. Sometimes, you are given a specific kilometer limit that you must not exceed – otherwise, you will have to pay again. Similarly, it's possible that the car rental company stipulates as a condition that you are not allowed to drive the vehicle outside the Czech Republic. This can be very restrictive for some.
With Birne, you won't face similar problems. No matter which vehicle you rent through Birne Rent, you can always be sure that it comes without mileage restrictions. So you can drive without fear of subsequent surcharges.
The road to owning your own car
Renting a car can thus be an easy, fair, and for many, advantageous option today. However, it still holds true that it's not your car and one day you'll have to return it. Such a thought is unpalatable to many, so they look for other options. But buying a new car can be very expensive, and traditional leasing or a loan can become unpleasantly costly. Therefore, an operating lease might be a possible solution in this case.
With Birne, you can arrange it in three variants and choose a car to your liking. A range of basic and premium services are available, and you can drive for a year, two, or even much longer. With the Flexi tariff, you don't have to worry about mileage restrictions and rental period – that's entirely up to you.
Try the Try and Buy service
If you truly want to own a car, the Try and Buy service is the solution, which involves an operating lease for six months, followed by the option of a favorable purchase, continuation, or termination of the contract.
Help with car purchase
You can also purchase your own car, whether used or new, through the affiliated service Direct auto. In fact, you can also sell your own car here, with its valuation easily done online and the rest arranged at a personal meeting. After the car purchase, you can then buy a new car, for example, on a trade-in basis. You don't have to deal with any administration, there are no hidden fees, and in the end, both parties are satisfied.
