What you need to know about car rentals at Charlotte Airport

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Why rent a car in Charlotte?

Besides exploring the city, Charlotte has several points of interest in its surroundings to enjoy the outdoors and adventure. Renting a car makes it much easier to move from one place to another with greater comfort and optimizing time.

Save money. Book in advance

Some of the outdoor and adventure activities include:

• Anne Springs Close Greenway
• Freedom Park
• Romare Bearden Park
• Hornet’s Nest Park
• Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve
• Park Road Park
• North Mecklenburg Park
• Nevin Community Park
• Independence Park

Aspects to consider

Several passengers, through recent comments on Google, TripAdvisor, Reddit, and Yelp, agree that the car rental process at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is generally efficient, although there are factors that can negatively impact the experience if not planned in advance.

• 🟢 Center located opposite the terminal: facilitates immediate access without the need for external shuttles. Several users mention it as a significant advantage over other large airports.
• 🕐 Peak hours with high demand: between Friday afternoon, Monday morning, and holidays, long lines and waits of up to 45 minutes to pick up the vehicle are reported, even with a prior reservation.
• 👥 Variable customer service: while Alamo and Enterprise receive constant praise for their resourceful and friendly staff, other companies like Avis and Sixt have reported unfriendly interactions or a lack of counter staff.
• 📍 Useful but improvable signage: although the path to the Hourly Deck is well indicated, some first-time passengers at the airport comment that more signage in Spanish or with visual symbols would be helpful.

Additional comments

Some passengers mention that the Car Rental Center, though convenient due to its proximity, can easily become congested during high-demand periods, which has led some to suggest its location could be reconsidered to improve operational flow.

Specific issues have also been reported with the actual availability of reserved cars (especially at Budget and Sixt), and in cases with National's Emerald Aisle, where the vehicles offered do not always meet the expectations of frequent travelers.

In general, users recommend doing a prior digital check-in if the company allows it, and verifying the exact condition of the car via the app or at the counter before leaving. This helps avoid delays and disagreements at the time of return.

Car Rental Center at CLT

The Car Rental Center at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport brings together eight different companies in a single facility, located in the lobby of the second level of the Hourly Deck, directly opposite the terminal. Any inquiries related to car rentals should be directed to one of the companies operating at the airport.

🔍 Search for a Car

Below are the pros and cons of some of the main car rental companies at CLT, based on user reviews:

Alamo +1 877 222 9075

• Pros: Very good reputation for speed in vehicle pick-up and return, especially if using advance check-in. Staff is described as “proactive and resourceful”.
• Cons: Some customers mention that on long weekends, there may be less variety of models available than expected.

Avis +1 800 633 3469

• Pros: Good location and diverse fleet. Several customers highlight that the process is smoother when using the mobile app.
• Cons: Recent reviews indicate delays in vehicle delivery and lack of a receipt at the end of the rental, which complicates expense reports.

Budget +1 800 218 7992

• Pros: Very competitive rates, especially if booked online. Offers several budget-friendly options.
• Cons: Excessive wait times at the counter and recurring problems with the availability of the reserved car are reported.

Dollar +1 800 800 4000

• Pros: Valued for its service simplicity and low prices. Good option for short trips.
• Cons: Some customers report vehicles with poor maintenance or minor mechanical problems at the time of delivery.

Enterprise +1 800 261 7331

• Pros: Receives praise for its customer service, cars in excellent condition, and smooth processes even during high-demand times.
• Cons: Rates can be higher than average if booked without advance notice.

Hertz +1 800 654 3131

• Pros: Wide range of cars and ease of upgrades. Strong presence at the airport.
• Cons: The most recent reviews mention long lines and inconsistent service at the counter.

National +1 877 222 9058

• Pros: Very good rating for the Emerald Aisle program, which allows choosing the car from several options. Quick process for registered users.
• Cons: Some vehicles in Emerald Aisle are not in optimal condition or already have high mileage.

Sixt +1 888 749 8227

• Pros: Known for its modern fleet, including premium and sports cars. Ideal for those looking for a different experience.
• Cons: Mixed experiences: prolonged waits at the counter and lack of clarity in deposit policies according to several users.

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Vehicle Pick-up

To reach the Car Rental Center, exit the terminal on the lower level (Arrivals/Baggage Claim). Cross the car and bus lanes using the crosswalk and covered walkway to enter the second-level lobby. Once inside, proceed to your rental company's counter, where a representative will assist you in picking up your vehicle.

Vehicle Return

To return your rental car, follow the signs along the airport roadways towards the Hourly Deck. Pass the Hourly Deck entrance on your left and then take the next left to access the rental car return area. Follow the signs to your rental company's designated section. Once you have completed the process, use the elevators on the south side of the Deck to reach Level 5 or Level 1. From there, exit via one of the covered walkways. Cross the car and bus lanes using the crosswalk and enter the terminal.

Operating Hours

• Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National: These companies usually have extended hours, opening early in the morning (around 4:00-5:00 am) and closing late at night (around 2:00 am). These hours may vary, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Dollar and Sixt: These companies may have shorter hours, opening around 6:00 am and closing around 12:00 am (midnight).

💡 Tip

For late-night or early-morning rentals, it is recommended to check directly with the car rental company to confirm their operating hours. Additionally, if you arrive late or depart early, some companies offer after-hours pick-up or drop-off options, where you can leave the keys in a designated drop box.

If you need specific hours or after-hours service, it is best to contact the car rental company directly using the contact numbers detailed above.