car hire

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I pick up and drop off my rental car at the Airport and is this FREE?

Where am I permitted to drive?

Am I able to drive outside the "Areas of Use"?

Does the Rental Vehicle come with any type of insurance or Damage Cover?

PREMIUM PROTECTION PACKAGE Option - Available ONLY on arrival, all offices , all types of cars.

Will a travel insurance policy provide sufficient cover if I have an accident or can I select the waiver options on arrival if I am unsure?

When do I pay for the rental car?

What methods of payment can I use?

Are there any other fees or "hidden extra"?

Why do the "daily rates" vary and will they change when I book?

Do I have to return with full tank of fuel?

What is the cost of additional kilometres?

What if I have to cancel a booking? Are there any cancellation fees?

What happens if I return the vehicle late?

How many free kilometres per day?

Do we receive FREE Street Directories/Maps?

What age do I have to be to rent a vehicle?

Do I need to have an International Drivers Licence?

Do you hire baby seats and booster seats?

Can anyone other then myself drive the car and how many people can drive?

Can I return the car after hours?

Can I have the Rental vehicle delivered to my hotel or local accommodation?

Can I use another person's Credit Card to pay and/or use for bond/holding deposit?

Can I collect a rental at one location and return it to another?

Can I extend the rental duration?

Are interstate one-way rentals available?

How can I guarantee the make and model of the car I prefer?

What do I need to bring with me to the counter to rent a car?

What should I do if I have an accident?

What if I break down? Do you provide 24 hours Roadside Assistance?

Can I tow a trailer or anything else?

What are the Car Hire Terms and Conditions?

If I leave the headlights on and run the battery flat, am I covered by Roadside Assistance?

How am I assured of the vehicles condition?

What is a security bond or holding deposit?

How does a security bond work?

Is it possible to modify my reservation once it is confirmed?

Can I check rates without making a reservation?

How will I know my reservation is confirmed?

How are our customers' personal details and credit card information protected securely online?

What is East Coast Car Rentals Express Check-in?



RENTAL COLLECTION

How do I pick up and drop off my rental car at the Airport and is this FREE?

Our free courtesy shuttle greets all customers at their terminal upon arrival and returns them on departure. Our strategically located offices at Brisbane Airport, Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta Airport) and Cairns are just a short ride from the Airports. Being a "Licensed Off-Airport Car Rental Company" your rental is NOT subject to Airport levies or fees. Whether your flight is early or delayed, our prompt collection service will have you in your rental car and on your way.

Arrivals - Customers are asked to contact the rental office once all luggage is collected. Our courtesy shuttle will greet you soon after at a designated meeting point, located just outside the arrival terminals. A short ride back to our depot to complete Rental formalities and you are on your way. A nominal fee of $33 will apply for Rentals outside shuttle times listed below. Express Check In now available.

Brisbane Airport office hours : 0700 to 2200 , 7 days *
Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta) office hours : 0700 to 2000 (Monday ~ Saturday) , 0700 to 1800 (Sunday) *
Cairns Airport office hours : 0700 to 1800 , 7 days *
* Please Note:- Our last courtesy transfer is 30 minutes prior to close of business. All after hour rentals must complete the Express Check-In form. We are closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day.)

Departures - Customers are asked to allow ample time for vehicle check-in, and return transfers from our office to the departure terminal. Suggested times for rental return is at least 180 minutes prior to flight of all departure. Return transfers are first come - first serve basis, and leave regularly during the above times. Customers departing on early flights are advised to check-in to their flight, prior to returning the rental vehicle by 0700.

Secure After hours Airport Parking facilities are available @ $33, for returns outside the times listed above. Unavoidable delays may also occur during peak periods. Express Check In now available.

Where am I permitted to drive?

Brisbane/Gold Coast Rentals Area of Use-
Hervey Bay – Sunshine Coast - Brisbane – Gold Coast – Byron Bay - Ballina – Toowoomba.
Area Map - Brisbane and Gold Coast

Cairns Rentals Area of Use-
Cooktown - Cape Tribulation – Daintree – Port Douglas – Palm Cove – Cairns – Mission Beach – Innisifail - Townsville.
Area map - Cairns

Am I able to drive outside the "Areas of Use"?

Our heavily discounted rates do not reflect the type of use for Rentals travelling beyond our "Area of Use" (Brisbane / Gold Coast or Cairns). A "User Pays" policy allows us to maintain the lowest rates for the majority of our customers travelling within our "Area of Use". Rentals outside the area are permitted with prior approval and will attract a daily surcharge of $10 per day for the duration of the hire. Subject to a minimum rental and other conditions.
For Distances between Major Queensland Cities and Towns, or other driver information CLICK HERE
Cairns to Brisbane/Gold Coast Rentals (or vice versa) – Coastal route only ,subject to minimum rentals and availability. Please email or call our reservations team for an individual all-inclusive package.

DAMAGE COVER AND OPTIONAL WAIVERS - can be selected on arrival

Does the Rental Vehicle come with any type of insurance or Damage Cover?

Subject to the terms and conditions of the Rental Agreement, standard damage cover is included and a liability applies;

BRISBANE/GOLD COAST Office Rentals
Pre selected online Liability Reduction Waivers
LIABILITY REDUCTION WAIVER (LRW)
Standard Liability 2-7 days 8-14 days 15+ days New Liability including LRW
per day per day per day
SEDANS Drivers Aged 25 - 80 $3000 $13.20 $11.00 $8.80 $200
Drivers Aged 21 - 24 $3300 $13.20 $13.20 $13.20 $500
TARAGOS Drivers Aged 25 - 80 $3500 $19.80 $16.50 $16.50 $500
Drivers Aged 21 - 24 $3800 $19.80 $19.80 $19.80 $800


CAIRNS Office Rentals
Pre selected online Liability Reduction Waivers
LIABILITY REDUCTION WAIVER (LRW)
Standard Liability 2-7 days 8-14 days 15+ days New Liability including LRW
per day per day per day
SEDANS Drivers Aged 25 - 80 $3000 $13.20 $13.20 $8.80 $200
Drivers Aged 21 - 24 $3300 $13.20 $13.20 $13.20 $500
TARAGOS Drivers Aged 25 - 80 $3500 $19.80 $16.50 $16.50 $500
Drivers Aged 21 - 24 $3800 $19.80 $19.80 $19.80 $800


PREMIUM PROTECTION PACKAGE Option - Available ONLY on arrival, all offices , all categories.

What does the "Premium Protection Package" cover?

A PREMIUM REDUCTION WAIVER (PRW) is available @ $6.60 per day at the rental counter on collection and may only be purchased along with a LRW. East Coast Car Rentals Premium Protection Package protects you against damage caused as a result of Single Vehicle Accidents, Hail and Storm Damage, Flood, Animal Damage, Windscreens, Tyres and Headlight damage.

The majority of other Car Rental Companies have little or NO cover for Single Vehicle Accidents, Hail or Storm Damage or other incidentals which are easily assumed to be covered. We have the most comprehensive and best value covers available.

See our table below for our most comprehensive PRW liability. We ask you to compare this any of our competitors!

Are you protected? What is your maximum liability?
Our liability Other rental companies' liability
Type of incident \ vehicles sedans 8-seaters All type of vehicles
Single vehicle accidents A$200 A$500 No cover / up to total value of vehicle
Windscreen A$0 A$0 Full value of windscreen + loss of rental
Hail damage A$200 A$500 Up to total value of vehicle + loss of rental
Tyre damage A$0 A$0 unlimited
Collision with animals A$200 A$500 Up to total value of vehicle
Thief of vehicle A$200 A$500 Up to total value of vehicle
Destruction of vehicle by fire A$200 A$500 Up to total value of vehicle
Collision with other vehicle A$200 A$500 Up to total value of vehicle

Will a travel insurance policy provide sufficient cover if I have an accident or can I select the waiver options on arrival if I am unsure?

Accidents and damage do occur, however we ask all customers to ensure the "terms and conditions" of any travel insurance policy are read prior to arrival. Unfortunately we are unable to act on the hirers behalf, or assist in any way when making claims. Whether you hire from us or any Car Rental company, we strongly suggest for peace of mind to accept any waiver options to reduce the hirers risk.

CHARGES AND PAYMENT

When do I pay for the rental car?

Payment is made in full upon arrival for the advised rental duration. Credit Card details are required to confirm your enquiry or quote. These details can be changed upon arrival. Please ensure the Credit Card holder is present upon arrival . Express Check In now available.

What methods of payment can I use?

Payment is made in full on arrival. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Eftpos. For the holding deposit we do require that the main driver of the vehicle hold a valid current credit card and be present on arrival. Please Note: Recent changes to 'American Express Merchant Terms of Use' now make it compulsory for all waivers to be accepted by customers who are using Amex.

Are there any other fees or "hidden extra"?

An "estimate of charges" is advised when booking and will include a daily rate, standard liability, GST and an administration fee. Fees relating to extended rentals, relocations, optional extras, collections or returns outside normal business hours, damage liability etc will be subject to standard charges. An Administration Fee will apply to all charges. We are one of the few car rental companies in Queensland that DO NOT charge a daily registration recovery fee on top of your daily hire rates which are usually $4~$6 daily or an Airport Recovery Fee or Levy which are usually between 9% and 12% of the total rental!

Why do the "daily rates" vary and will they change when I book?

Rental rates are subject to availability and demand. Reservations made "Online" are always heavily discounted . Once confirmed arrival and departure details are available, we suggest you confirm your rental requirements. Online rates are itemized to show a breakdown of all fees and charges. An email "Confirmed Reservation" or "Quote" will indicate a "Total Estimate of Charges" and be GST inclusive.

Do I have to return with full tank of fuel?

We ask all customers to return fuel to original starting level at commencement of rental. We are unable to offer credit or refunds for returns with excess fuel.

What is the cost of additional kilometres?

Unless a booking confirmation states otherwise, Unlimited kms are FREE. Additional kilometres are charged at 22 cents per km should your reservation include a limited km rate. Assume its unlimited kms unless it otherwise states.

What if I have to cancel a booking? Are there any cancellation fees?

We reserve the right to charge the following cancellation fees to all confirmed reservations.

What happens if I return the vehicle late?

If the vehicle is returned late, each hour or part of will be charged at one fifth (1/5) of the daily rental. As courtesy to the next renter and for an opportunity for to arrange an alternate vehicle, please advise "Reservations" immediately. Extra charges may apply due to vehicle availability. Optional extras (eg, Liability Waiver etc) will be charged at the full daily rate.

How many free kilometres per day?

Unless otherwise specified, UNLIMITED KILOMETRES apply to all rentals. Heavily reduced rates/discounts may have a limited km rate. This will be clearly visible on any rental confirmation.

Do we receive FREE Street Directories/Maps?

We provide a complementary Street Directory with all vehicles. Non-return will incur a $60 replacement fee. Satellite Navigation now also available for a nominal daily fee. Ask on arrival.

What age do I have to be to rent a vehicle?

All drivers 25yo – 80yo. Drivers aged 21yo to 24yo are permitted to hire and subject to an age surcharge of $8.80 per day. We are unable to hire to drivers under 21yo and/or Provisional License holders.

Do I need to have an International Drivers Licence?

If you will be driving for a period that is longer than three (3) months and you need to have an International Drivers Licence. Otherwise, we need a valid licence from your own state/country.

Do you hire baby seats and booster seats?

Yes, we do hire baby and booster seats for a nominal daily fee of $3 per day, capped at a maximum of $25 per hire, each. Front/Rear facing Baby seats suitable for newborn to 18kg. Booster seats suitable for toddlers 14kg to 26kg. All vehicles have the required fittings. Be sure to include with your online reservation.

Can anyone other then myself drive the car and how many people can drive?

Only named/nominated drivers whose name appears on the Rental Agreement, or attachments, may drive. Each driver must be listed on the Rental Agreement and must present their drivers license at time of collection. An additional driver/hirer fee of $10 per driver will apply. Age surcharges may also apply. Maximum 4 drivers per rental.

Can I return the car after hours?

Yes, you may return your rental car when our office is closed, if prior arrangements have been made. Detailed maps including drop-off location and instructions on key return will be supplied at the commencement of hire. Nominal Airport Parking fees normally apply. Rental cars may also be returned directly at the rental depot after hours, however the vehicle remains the renters responsibility until such time it has been checked-in by our Rental representative the following day.

Can I have the Rental vehicle delivered to my hotel or local accommodation?

Yes, this can be arranged simply by notifying the Rental Office 30 minutes prior to collection with your local address details. Subject to conditions, peak seasons, time of day and staff availability. Rental Office details available on "Confirmation" email.

Can I use another person's Credit Card to pay and/or use for bond/holding deposit?

You may request a quotation and check availability without making a reservation. Complete only the first pages of the rates and reservations process. If you wish to make a reservation at this time and with these details simply continue by entering your Personal details and Credit Card via our secure booking page.

Can I collect a rental at one location and return it to another?

Relocation between offices is possible and subject to a nominal relocating fee. Online quotes will calculate a relocation fee between offices (where applicable). Please note for One-Way Rentals between Cairns to Brisbane/Gold Coast or vice versa a nominal daily rate surcharge of + $10 per day will apply. Subject also to minimum rental and availability. Please contact our Reservations team for availability and rates.

Can I extend the rental duration?

Extending the rental duration is possible at time of check out or during the rental itself. You will need to contact or come in person to the nearest location. The extension is subject to vehicle availability and extra payment.

Are interstate one-way rentals available?

Unfortunately we do not offer interstate relocations at this stage.

How can I guarantee the make and model of the car I prefer?

Our makes and models are suggested and Categorized as accurately as possible, indicated by the majority type in the category. Upon arrival advise the counter representative of your preference and if available we will be more than happy to accommodate. The majority of our fleet is Toyota and between brand new and 2 years in age.

What do I need to bring with me to the counter to rent a car?

All hirers must provide a current valid drivers license and valid credit card in the same name as well as the Booking Confirmation email to assist us on your arrival. Any discounts, coupons, or other promotional material must be presented upon arrival.

What should I do if I have an accident?

Report the accident to the Police immediately. Ensure all details of any third parties, witnesses and police that attend at the scene are recorded and contact us immediately, or certainly within 24 hours. Do not admit liability. Our staff will assist and advise accordingly.

What if I break down? Do you provide 24 hours Roadside Assistance?

24 hour roadside assistance with RACQ is covered in all rentals. Please note that a 'human error call out' will incur a $55 service fee. For example, keys locked in car, out of fuel or lights left on and battery becoming flat.

Can I tow a trailer or anything else?

Only Utes already fitted with tow balls may be used to tow trailers, up to its legal capacity. Passenger vehicles can not be used to tow or push anything, this forms part of the rental terms and conditions.

What are the Car Hire Terms and Conditions?

Please click on the following link (Car Hire and Booking Terms and Conditions) for a copy of our Rental Terms & Conditions.

If I leave the headlights on and run the battery flat, am I covered by Roadside Assistance?

Roadside Assistance will cover the unlikely event of mechanical failure. It does not cover non-mechanical defects such as, lost keys, keys locked in the vehicle, flat battery due to lights being left on etc. Call-out fees apply in these instances.

How am I assured of the vehicles condition?

On Arrival - Quality Fleet management ensures that all vehicles are subject to a full detail and safety check prior to its next rental. As re-assurance to our clients and part of our ongoing commitment to quality control, a visual inspection is jointly completed with the hirer present upon collection. All customers receive a copy of a Vehicle Summary Report on commencement of hire and agree to the vehicles condition. All cars are new and kept in the same condition.

On Departure - On return to the depot, our staff will re-inspect the condition of the vehicle referring to the same signed and agreed “Vehicle Summary Report” (VSR) completed at the commencement of hire. Subject to a satisfactory final inspection, our check-in staff will close and complete your rental.
A closed copy will be supplied on request subject to all charges paid in full.

What is a security bond or holding deposit?

A security bond is a pre-authorization to your credit card that is used as a form of protection whilst you are renting a vehicle.

How does a security bond work?

In most instances, we will accept only a signed Credit Card imprint (by the hirer) as a security deposit, where the hirer is a corporate client, previous renter or has selected the 'Premium Package' cover. East Coast Car Rentals reserves the right to pre-authorise an amount, up to the chosen excess, on the hirers Credit Card, which is cancelled when the rental is returned and finalised. Financial institutions may take up to 7 days to release the authorisation.

Reservations

Is it possible to modify my reservation once it is confirmed?

Confirmed reservations can be altered and are subject to availability. An amendment fee of $25 will apply. Changes to the length of rental may alter daily rates or any other specially discounted offers.

Can I check rates without making a reservation?

You may request a quotation and check availability without making a reservation. Complete only the first pages of the rates and reservations process. If you wish to make a reservation at this time and with these details simply continue by entering your Personal details and Credit Card via our secure booking page.

How will I know my reservation is confirmed?

The final page when Booking Online offers all booking details as entered and includes, a "Booking Request" reservation number prefixed by a "U".Please record this reference number and/or print page. Once received by our Reservations Team an email confirming your booking request will be sent, normally between 24 to 48 hours. For any reason you do not receive a "Confirmation" email please contact our Reservations team, supply "U" number and a confirmation will be re emailed. Please read and print "Confirmation" and advise immediately if any details are incorrect. Vehicle details, Airport collection procedure, terms and conditions of hire and other main details are included in the "Confirmations".

How are our customers' personal details and credit card information protected securely online?

Our online reservation service is located on a secure server that guarantees the safety of the transaction. The system uses 128bit SSL encrypting technology. SSL works by encrypting all communications between your computer and our server so that information cannot be intercepted.

What is East Coast Car Rentals Express Check-in?

Nobody likes waiting in lines, so we have introduced an industry first, "Express Check-in". Simply complete the Express Check-in form and your Rental Agreement will be completed prior to your arrival. Payment and vehicle inspection only remain and your on your way. Conditions apply.