When you rent a car, you can assume you can use the vehicle for anything, such as a bicycle rack, a car or even a trailer. However, that isn’t true in the simplest of terms, most car rentals are not towing enigma.
Many are surprised to learn of this rule. So, let’s take this step by step in an easy way so that anyone can understand it.
Why Rental Car Companies Do Not Allow Towing?
Let’s not forget the rental companies such as Enterprise, Hertz and Avis, who don’t make rules for fun! There are good reasons for this.
Not only does towing cause lots of stress, but that stress can be placed on the vehicle. Both the engine and brakes are put to greater test as well as the tyres. Most cars rented are normal cars such as small sedans or SUVs. They do not have a heavy pulling capacity.
Secondly the car is owned by the company. When it is damaged, they will lose out on money as they will not be able to rent it out again until it is fixed.
So, to avoid any damage and risk, they just say, no towing allowed.
What Happens If You Tow With A Rental Car Anyway?
Some people at that time say, “Heh heh, no one will know it. But that’s risky.”
Any activities performed outside of the renting agreement, such as towing are subject to violation of the agreement.
This can bring about significant problems :-
- It may be that your insurance policy is cancelled.
- You could well be required to pay the complete expense of repair.
- Additional penalties will be levied
- If the company has to note that the car has been misused they can do so.
Many rental cars that are currently available use GPS. Thus, it is simpler than ever for companies to recognize when misuses are occurring.
In layman’s terms, it could cost you some big bucks.
Check Whether Your Rental Car Allows Towing With A Tow Bar
This is a WIDELY asked question.
The response usually is: nearly always NO.
There are obvious examples of companies which explicitly state that you are not allowed to attach a trailer to a rental car (e.g. National Car Rental).
You never know if the car will be OK, just because it looks like it is or it has a hitch, it could be against the rules.
The Main Exception Usually Applies To Towing Vehicles
The good news is that now it’s over.
When it is really necessary to have towing, there is a proper and safe road to cover—rental trucks.
There are businesses that cater their services for this and they are responsible services like U-Haul, Penske and Budget Truck Rental.
They are built for heavy duty! They are able to tow them safely :-
- Trailers
- Cars
- Boats
Another type of tools that can be rented are :-
- Tow dollies, small cars (for Large cars)
- Car transport busses (for Larger vehicles)
Instead, you can rent a full-size truck and avoid the risk that you’ll encounter with the mundane rental car.
Read Also: What Happens If You Return A Rental Car With Less Gas?
Can You Tow A Car With A Rental Truck?
Of course it is OK to do this, but there is a certain setup to it.
With U-Haul for instance, you are able to hire a truck in combination with a car trailer. It’s the safest and legal method for relocating your automobile.
It can be done in two ways :-
- Tow dolly – suitable for front drive vehicles
- If you have all-wheel or 4-wheel cars, the auto transport trailer will be a better option.
These methods are highly trusted and widely used.
What Happens If Your Rental Car Breaks Down? Can It Be Towed?
Yes, but you need to adhere to the guidelines.
Always call the rental company first. They will have someone come out to help or have them tow it off.
For instance, Avis and Hertz will feature roadside assistance.
They may have trouble if your tow does not alert them to the tow.
Therefore, always be the first to contact the company!
Can You Tow With A Budget Rental Car?
Yes you can tow your car using a budget car rental company.The rule still applies to Budget car rentals.
Towing is prohibited on regular rental cars, unless prearranged prior to renting or prior permission is given.
Allow towing costs with budget trucks.Towing costs are ok if it is budget trucks.
If you are in need of towing, then select the truck, rather than the car.
Can You Tow With A Lease Car?
Yes, You Can Tow With a Lease Car!
In a few instances towing is permitted, but only if :-
- Under your lease agreement, it is your right to do so.
- The tow load of the car is sufficient
- You don’t exceed the towing limits
- Exceeding the limit could lead to expensive car damage and forfeit warranty.
- As usual, check the regulations first before towing; towing with a lease car.
Step-By-Step Guide To Legally Towing With A Rental Vehicle
Follow these simple steps, if you have to tow something!
Step 1 – KNOW – What are you wanting to tow?
Step 2 – Be sure that you rental company allows tow.
Step 3 – Select a rental truck.
Step 4 – When towing is necessary, look to Penske and U-Haul trucks.
Step 5 – Test Rail Stuff lifting capacity.
Step 6 – Test weight limits.There is a maximum weight limit to tow any vehicle. Never cross it.
Step 7 – Inspect the equipment to ensure it is operating properly.
Step 8 – Ensure that there is a secure and robust hitch and connection.
Step 9 – Review Insurance.
Step 10 – Inquire if your car insurance includes towing. But it doesn’t happen often.
Make Sure You Avoid These Common Towing Mistakes
Certain people tend to commit common errors which leave them with a loss of funds.
A major error is presuming towing in a state that you can effectively tow them because it is physically possible.The single major error is assuming that you can tow cars in a state because it is physically possible.
One of the other things that can go wrong is that you will not read the rental agreement. Although it sounds mundane, it has some rules!
In addition, individuals often lease an ordinary vehicle in the event that they need a truck. This causes difficulties that come down the road.
Helpful Tips For Safe Towing With Jackson Towing Trucks
Following are some important tips to keep in mind if you’re planning on towing while traveling :-
- Reserve early, particularly in peak seasons, for book trucks.
- Try driving with a trailer before trips of length
- Put the number of the road patrol on the phone.
- Make before and after photos of the vehicle to be used for reference.
Small steps can lead to big problems that are avoided.
Final Thoughts
So, in a rental car can you do towing?
No, in most situations you just don’t!
But this is not a problem as you cannot be limited by this. All you have to do is select the proper choice! You can rent a truck from any of the numerous rent-a-truck companies, including Penske or U-Haul, for this particular purpose.
Follow the rules, review your agreement and if you have any questions, please ask.
It’s always a better idea to be safe than to be in debt to a lot of money later.
