A Complete Guide to Picking Up and Returning a Hertz Car Rental in South Africa

Hiring a vehicle with Hertz car rental in South Africa is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country, whether you’re visiting for business or leisure. With a wide range of vehicles and branches across the country, Hertz is a trusted choice for many travellers. That’s why we at Drive South Africa are proud to have Hertz as one of our trusted partners.

However, it’s important to know exactly what to do when collecting and returning your rental to avoid any unexpected charges. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about picking up and dropping off a Hertz car rental, based on official guidelines. We’ll also answer common questions to help you feel confident at every step of your journey.

What to Do When Collecting Your Hertz Car Rental

Hertz Car Rental | Photo: Hertz

Even though Hertz staff carry out a pre-inspection before handing over the vehicle, it’s your responsibility to double-check the car’s condition. Here’s how to protect yourself and make sure everything is in order.

Check the Boot and Essential Accessories

When you open the boot to load your luggage, take a moment to inspect:

• Spare wheel
• Tool kit
• Headrests
• Luggage cover

If any of these items are missing, alert a Hertz car rental representative immediately. These components are considered standard, and you could be held responsible if they’re missing upon return.

Review the Pre-Inspection Sheet

Before driving off:

• Cross-check the car’s physical condition with the pre-inspection form provided by Hertz.
• Look for scratches, dents, chips, or cracks that are either marked or unmarked.
• If you notice any discrepancies or new damage, have it recorded by a Hertz representative before leaving the branch.

Pay Attention to Windscreens and Tyres

Certain types of damage are commonly missed during quick inspections:

• Windscreen: Inspect closely around the black border. Small cracks or chips in this area can be difficult to see but costly to repair.
• Tyres: Scan the sidewalls and exposed tread for signs of damage, bulges, or embedded debris.

Take Time-Stamped Photos or Videos

To protect yourself from liability:

• Capture the car from multiple angles, including tyres, windscreen, and any pre-existing damage.
• Make sure your phone settings include a visible timestamp that matches your pick-up time.

Don’t Skip the Personal Inspection

Even if the Hertz car rental team has already inspected the vehicle, you must do your own. Any damage not recorded at the time of pick-up may be charged to you, even if it was present beforehand.

What Happens If You Discover Damage After Driving Off?

Call as soon as possible if you notice any damage on your rental car | Photo: Gustavo Fring via Pexels

If you find damage after you’ve left the premises, call Hertz car rental as soon as possible. While it may be difficult to prove the damage was pre-existing, photo or video evidence taken at collection can support your case.

How to Return Your Hertz Car Rental

You can request a return inspection to confirm the vehicle is in acceptable condition | Photo: negativespace via Pexels

Returning your rental is just as important as the pick-up process. Here’s how to do it properly to avoid unnecessary charges.

Allow Time for a Return Inspection

Plan to arrive a little early so there’s enough time for a joint inspection with a Hertz representative.

• If damage occurred during the rental, it’s best to address it immediately.
• Even if there was no incident, you can still request a return inspection to confirm the vehicle is being returned in acceptable condition.

Get a Signed Confirmation of Return

If possible, ask the representative to sign a document confirming the car’s condition at drop-off. This helps ensure there’s no ambiguity or unexpected claims afterwards.

Understand the Final Damage Audit

Hertz may still perform a final, more detailed inspection after you return the vehicle. This includes less-visible areas such as the:

• Undercarriage
• Tyre treads
• Engine compartment

If damage is discovered in these areas, you may still be liable for repair costs, even if they weren’t visible at the time of return.

What to Do If You’re Involved in an Accident

If you’re involved in an accident with your rental car, you need to obtain a police report | Photo: Getty

Accidents can happen, even with cautious drivers. If you’re involved in a collision or incident with a Hertz car rental, follow these steps:

1. Call Hertz immediately on 0861 600 136.
2. Report the incident to the nearest police station within 24 hours.
3. Obtain a police report and AR (Accident Report) number. These documents are essential for processing insurance and claims.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Hertz Car Rental Experience

Here are a few more practical recommendations to ensure your rental experience goes smoothly:

• If you’re unfamiliar with the vehicle, take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with its controls and dashboard features. Better yet, read the car’s manual!
• Pair your smartphone with the vehicle’s infotainment system for safer, hands-free navigation and calls. Remember to unpair your device just before you return the vehicle.
• Always drive responsibly and obey local speed limits. Remember: you will be liable for all fines incurred while you are in possession of the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hertz Car Rental

A rental car driving towards Devil’s Peak in Cape Town | Photo: Getty

Do I have to inspect the car if Hertz already did?

Yes. Although Hertz carries out a pre-inspection, you’re still responsible for checking the vehicle and reporting any damage before leaving the lot.

What happens if I return the vehicle late?

Late returns may incur additional charges. Check your rental agreement for details on grace periods and hourly rates. Your Drive South Africa car hire expert will be happy to explain this all to you at the time of booking.

Can I drop off the car outside business hours?

Some Hertz car rental locations offer after-hours drop-offs, but you’ll need to confirm this in advance. Note that final inspections will be done later, which can delay damage claims.

Will I be charged for a flat tyre?

If a flat tyre or damage was not recorded at the time of pick-up, you could be liable. This is why inspecting the tyres is so important.

Final Thoughts on Hiring from Hertz Car Rental in South Africa

Renting a vehicle through Hertz car rental gives you the freedom to explore South Africa on your own terms – but it also requires you to be diligent at pick-up and return. Following the proper inspection processes, taking photos, and understanding your responsibilities can help you avoid stress and additional charges.

By following the official Hertz guidelines and tips outlined above, you’ll enjoy a smooth and secure car rental experience wherever your journey takes you.

Ready to book with Drive South Africa? Simply use the handy booking tool at the top of the page. You’ll be behind the wheel of a superb Hertz rental car in no time!