Late Arrivals and After-Hours Collections
Getting Your Alpha Car Hire Vehicle
We understand that travel plans can sometimes change unexpectedly. At Alpha Car Hire, we’ve established clear procedures for late arrivals and offer convenient after-hours collection options, so you can still pick up your rental vehicle, even if your flight is delayed or you arrive outside our standard operating hours. Your journey starts when you’re ready.
Understanding Late Arrivals
If you anticipate a late arrival (where you expect to pick up your vehicle during our standard operating hours, but later than your scheduled time), it’s important to:
- Notify Us: Please contact the Alpha Car Hire branch directly as soon as you know you'll be delayed. Providing your flight number if you're arriving by air is always helpful.
- Maintain Your Booking: While we strive to hold your vehicle, rentals not picked up within a certain grace period (typically 1-2 hours) of the scheduled time without notification may be subject to cancellation, especially during peak periods. Keeping us informed ensures your vehicle remains available.
After-Hours Collections: Picking Up Outside Standard Hours
For those times when your arrival is scheduled for, or extends into, hours when our branches are normally closed, we offer pre-arranged after-hours collection services at many of our locations. This service ensures you can still get your vehicle even if you land late at night or early in the morning.
How After-Hours Collection Works:
- Must Be Pre-Arranged: After-hours collections must be explicitly pre-arranged and confirmed with Alpha Car Hire prior to your pick-up date. This service is not guaranteed if not pre-booked.
- Additional Fees: An after-hours collection fee typically applies for this service to cover the costs of staffing outside of regular hours. This fee will be advised and added to your rental agreement during the arrangement process.
- Specific Instructions Provided: Once confirmed, you will receive detailed instructions from Alpha Car Hire, which may include:
- Directions to a specific meeting point or a secure key collection box.
- A unique code or contact number for access.
- Information about the location of your vehicle.
- Documents Ready: Ensure you have your valid driver’s licence and the credit card used for the booking (in the primary hirer’s name) readily available for verification.
Important Note: After-hours collection might not be available at all branches or for all vehicle types. Always confirm availability and procedures directly with the relevant Alpha Car Hire branch when making your booking, especially if you know you’ll be arriving outside standard hours.
Planning for a Smooth Pickup, Day or Night
Provide Flight Details
If flying in, providing your flight number during booking allows us to monitor for delays and better prepare for your arrival.
Keep Contact Details Current
Ensure your phone number and email address on the booking are current, so we can easily communicate with you if needed.
Inform Us of Changes
The more information you provide, the better we can accommodate you and ensure a seamless pickup, regardless of your arrival time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an extra charge for a late arrival (during operating hours)?
If you arrive late during our standard operating hours but have kept us informed, there usually isn’t an extra charge. However, significant uncommunicated delays could lead to cancellation, especially during busy periods.
How much does after-hours collection cost?
An after-hours collection fee applies for pre-arranged pickups outside our standard operating hours. This fee varies by location and time and will be advised when you arrange the service.
Can I just show up after hours without pre-arranging?
No, after-hours collections must be pre-arranged and confirmed with Alpha Car Hire. Our branches are not staffed outside regular hours for unannounced pickups, and you may not be able to access your vehicle.
What if my flight is severely delayed and I miss my arranged after-hours pickup time?
If your flight is significantly delayed and impacts your pre-arranged after-hours pickup, please contact the branch directly or call our customer service line immediately. We will do our best to re-arrange your collection, though new fees or procedures may apply.
Do I still need to complete paperwork for an after-hours collection?
Yes, essential paperwork (like signing the rental agreement) will still need to be completed. For after-hours collections, this is often streamlined through a digital process or prepared for a quick signature. You will still need to present your valid driver’s licence and credit card.
Seamless Service, Whenever You Arrive
Alpha Car Hire is committed to making your rental experience as convenient as possible. With our flexible options for late arrivals and after-hours collections, you can rest assured that your car hire will be ready for you, no matter when you land.