How Rental Works

Everything you need to know before renting with SmartRents: from the quote to the return.

1. Book Online

Choose the vehicle, select the pick-up and return dates, and choose the protections you prefer. At checkout, you can choose between two payment methods:

  • Pay Online and Save — pay the total immediately via PayPal (discounted rate). Cancellation fees apply within 48 hours of pick-up.
  • Book and Pay at the Agency — book for free, pay upon vehicle pick-up (slightly higher rate). No No Show fee.

You will immediately receive a confirmation email with all the details.

2. Vehicle Pick-Up

Arrive at the pick-up point indicated in your booking with:

  • Valid driver's license (issued for at least 1 year)
  • Credit or debit card in the driver's name
  • A valid identity document

Deposit (Security Deposit)

At the time of pick-up, we authorize a refundable deposit amount on your card. The amount varies based on the vehicle and coverage chosen. With CDW included, a standard deposit applies (e.g., €500); with Super Protection, the deposit is reduced or waived. The blocked amount is not charged: it is only a pre-authorization, released within 30 days of return net of any charges for damages or extras.

Before delivery, we conduct a joint check of the vehicle's condition: photographs and a report signed by both parties. Keep your copy.

3. During the Rental

  • Observe speed limits and the Highway Code
  • Do not take the vehicle out of Italy without written authorization
  • In case of an accident or breakdown, call our assistance number immediately
  • Do not lend the vehicle to unauthorized third parties in the contract
  • Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or substances
  • Do not use the vehicle on unpaved roads, beaches, or off-road
  • Do not refuel with the wrong fuel

In case of violation of these rules, CDW and TP coverages lapse, and the driver is fully responsible for the damages.

4. Vehicle Return

Return the vehicle on the agreed date, time, and location. Upon return, we verify together:

  • Body condition (comparison with pick-up report)
  • Fuel level
  • Miles driven
  • Presence of all delivered accessories

Fuel

The vehicle must be returned with the same fuel level. Otherwise, the refueling cost plus a €20 fixed fee is charged.

Extra Miles

The included miles are indicated on the vehicle sheet. For each exceeding mile, the rate indicated in the contract applies (e.g., €0.30/km).

5. Damages and Deposit Management

If new damages are detected compared to the pick-up report, the following rules apply:

ScenarioCDW CoverageSuper Protection
Accidental damagePay up to the deductible (e.g., €800)€0
Theft / attempted theftPay up to the TP deductible€0
Gross negligence (driving on the beach, wrong fuel, etc.)Full responsibilityFull responsibility
Intentional damageFull responsibilityFull responsibility
Loss of keys / vehicle documentsNot coveredNot covered

How the Deposit is Managed

  1. No damage: we release the deposit within 30 days.
  2. Damage within the deductible: we retain the repair cost and release the rest.
  3. Damage exceeding the deductible: your responsibility stops at the deductible (with CDW). We retain the entire deposit amount and invoice the excess only if the cost exceeds the deposit.
  4. Super Protection active: no retention (except for negligence).

In case of an accident with third parties, we provide you with the CAI (Friendly Accident Report) form. The photographic damage report is sent within 72 hours of return.

6. Cancellation Policy

When you cancelPay OnlinePay at the Agency
More than 48 hours before pick-upFull refundFree
Within 48 hours of pick-up50% of the total retainedFree
No Show (you don't show up)100% retainedNo cost

To cancel, write to [email protected] or call the number indicated in your confirmation email.