How to Secure a Rental Car?
How to Secure a Rental Car?
Despite increasingly effective methods introduced by manufacturers and legislators to reduce car theft, no one is completely safe. Rental companies are particularly exposed to the risk of vehicle theft. Aggressive and irresponsible behaviour by customers is also problematic — renters tend to care less about hired cars, making accidents and collisions more likely. In this context it is worth remembering that vehicle availability is the most important component of every rental company's revenue.
Limited ability to protect against theft and collisions means rental companies should know effective ways to protect their vehicles. Industry experts identify four basic methods:
Effective Tenant Verification Before Handing Over the Car
Prevention is better than cure. Preventing theft through tenant verification is safer than acting after damage has occurred.
Identity Verification via Bank Transfer
Many car thefts from rental companies are carried out using so-called collector's documents — which can easily be ordered online. One of the simplest methods for screening dishonest tenants using false identities is to accept payment by bank transfer. The banking system automatically adds the payer's details — name, surname, and account holder's address — to the transfer. Establishing a bank account using a false identity document is essentially impossible.
Thorough Document Verification
A method that increases the chance of detecting forged documents is carefully checking security features. Most documents have holograms that appear when viewed at the right angle. Document templates from all European countries can be verified in the PRADO public online register of authentic identity and travel documents.
Checking ID and Driving Licence on gov.pl
Two tools provided by the Polish Republic Service (gov.pl) allow basic tenant verification: checking whether an ID card is valid, and checking a driver's authorisations (licence number check — note that the licence plate number is not the same as the licence number).
Groups and Verification Companies
Industry communities bring together rental owners, typically on Facebook or WhatsApp. There are also subscription-based verification companies that have data from many rental companies about clients who habitually damage vehicles, steal them, or have other incidents.
Public Debtor Databases
Public debtor databases can also be helpful in assessing tenants. Popular options include KRD, BIK, InfoMonitor, and ERIF.
GPS System in Every Vehicle
A small GPS transmitter allows you to locate a vehicle at any time. Tracking by law enforcement can lead to quick recovery. However, experienced thieves can find and remove GPS units. For high-value vehicles, radio systems resistant to jamming are more effective.
Rent-a-Car Insurance
Insurance is not only required (in its basic form) but is the oldest method of protecting against theft and vehicle damage. Read the policy terms carefully — ensure it covers theft and allows vehicle rental. Compare offers from as many insurers as possible.
Deposits
A deposit secures funds against a portion of damages. In premium segments, common deposit amounts are 5,000 or 10,000 PLN depending on vehicle value. The most frequent incidents during rental include:
- Wheel damage
- Tyre sidewall damage
- Excessive tyre wear
- Brake pad wear and disc overheating
- Bumper scratches
What to do?
Even the most thorough tenant screening cannot fully protect against theft or damage. The risk inherent in this industry can be minimised but not completely eliminated. Using a combination of several methods is likely to be most valuable.