Vehicle/Van Rental

moneysaverexplorer

I'm asking on behalf of a friend. They would like to hire a van for 2-3 days, they don't have a credit card, which based on everything they have tried so far feels like it's mandatory to secure a rental. I was under the impression, if you paid a large deposit upfront, i.e. they rental company was paid this as security, and then refunded when vehicle returned this was an option. Not everyone wants a credit card, or has credit, but surely this is not a blocker if they are able to pay the "risk" deposit upfront? Can anyone please advise what their options are here, or vehicle rental businesses that don't insist on a credit card, but a deposit will suffice? Thanks.

Grumpy_chap

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6668593/vehicle-van-rental

Do they have a debit card that can be used?

moneysaverexplorer

Yes, but my understanding is that if you use this method you pay a large deposit upfront. That's not an issue, just need to be clear on best rental company providers via this option?

moneysaverexplorer

My friend doesn't have a credit card, and limited funds. So I have advised if they find a rental provider that will accept a deposit upfront, i.e. if via a debit card, I will pay the upfront commitment, as my understanding is that it will be refunded when the van is returned?

gwynlas

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82001332#Comment_82001332

If you areprepared to pay the deposit which is in itself a risk, why not hire the vehicle in your name with them as named driver?

NoodleDoodleMan

Is it to move house and shift furniture etc. ?

In which case there are small carrier firms in local areas which can undertake such a job - possibly just as cheap as trying to hire a rental vehicle in the circumstances outlined ?