Yes, you can usually pick up a rental car later than your scheduled time, but it's not guaranteed. Most major rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis will hold a reservation for a grace period, typically ranging from 29 minutes to a few hours. However, your specific vehicle assignment may be given to another customer if you are significantly late, especially during peak travel times or at high-demand locations. To avoid complications, the most critical step is to contact the rental location directly to inform them of your delay.
The policies and potential costs associated with a late pickup can vary significantly by company and location. Here’s a comparison of common practices:
| Rental Company | Typical Grace Period | Late Pickup Policy (Beyond Grace Period) | Recommended Action |
|---|
| Hertz | Approximately 29 minutes | Vehicle may be released; you will be re-assigned based on available inventory. | Call the rental location directly. |
| Enterprise | Often 1-2 hours | Reservation is not guaranteed; a different car category may be offered. | Update your reservation online or via the app. |
| Avis | Around 2-3 hours | Similar to others; availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. | Use the Avis app to notify them of your delay. |
| Budget | Varies by airport | Your confirmed car class may not be available upon arrival. | Consider pre-paying for a stronger guarantee. |
If you miss the grace period, the company is not obligated to hold your specific car category. You'll be accommodated with whatever is left on the lot, which could mean an upgrade at no extra cost or, less favorably, a downgrade. During busy periods, there's a real risk of no vehicles being available at all. To protect your reservation, especially if you know you'll be late, calling the rental office is the most effective strategy. Some companies also allow you to modify your pickup time in their app or on their website. Pre-paying for your rental can sometimes offer a stronger guarantee that a vehicle will be held for you.
