Pick-up and return checklist

What to check before you drive off, and how to return the car without disputes.

Ten minutes at pick-up can save you a damage dispute weeks later.

Before you drive away

  1. Walk around the car with the agent. Every scratch, dent and chip should be marked on the check-out form.
  2. Take photos and a short video of all sides, the wheels, the windscreen, the interior and the fuel gauge and mileage, with a timestamp.
  3. Check the fuel level matches the agreement.
  4. Test lights, wipers, locks and seatbelts. Check for a spare wheel or repair kit, a warning triangle and any equipment required in that country.
  5. Confirm the correct fuel type. Filling up with the wrong fuel is not covered by insurance.
  6. Read what you sign. Decline extras you didn't ask for.

When you return the car

  1. Refuel near the drop-off if the policy is full-to-full, and keep the receipt.
  2. Take the same photos and video again in the return bay.
  3. Ask for the car to be checked in your presence and for a return receipt confirming no new damage and the fuel level.
  4. If you return outside opening hours, photograph the car, the key drop and the parking spot.

If something goes wrong

In an accident or theft, contact the supplier and the local police straight away, and complete an accident report with the other driver's details. Keep copies of all paperwork.

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