Hertz - Thanks #1 Club Gold!

Had to drop my car off at the shop this morning. It is a facility run by CSAA here in Sacramento.

Walked over to the Hertz counter to pick up a rental car, no reservation...my fault and was told there were no cars available for a couple of hours. Nothing was available from anything nearby either.

I mentioned that being #1 Gold didn't seem to mean much and what do you know...gave the young lady my number and had a car within 2 minutes.

Thanks Hertz. You made my day. :)

interesting. I didn't know #1 meant guarenteed availibility - that'll be nice if it's standard. ptherwise she may have ovrode a computer hold for an oil change or something, especially if you just had the car for a day or two with no major travel planned

I've noticed that our corporate rate tends to make cars available when they would otherwise be sold out.

No idea if this is what happened to sactoflyer, but Hertz does have guaranteed availability agreements with certain companies, meaning that if you are a member/employee of that company and need a car, they are not allowed to turn you away.

Have had several occasions when AAA or normal website path showed no availability, but [big corporation]'s CDP gave me almost all at normal corporate rates.

interesting. I didn't know #1 meant guarenteed availibility...

From the Herts #1 Club Gold Overview on their website:
No matter where you rent with Gold your paperwork and car will be ready and waiting.

Certainly seems to imply availability is guaranteed. ^

No, I think this means if you have a reservation, they guarentee your car and paperwork will be ready. Nothing about if you have no reservation.

I mentioned that being #1 Gold didn't seem to mean much

Hmmm....was that a tactic or an expression of concern? ;)

I likely would have said that I always try to rent with Hertz first and then would have placed my ID card on the counter. The net effect has been the same for me, and I wouldn't have had to say something I know is counter to what the truth is for me. Having been a satisfied Gold member for a number of years now, I hope I never have to speak the above words truthfully.

Glad it worked out! When we've had car repair issues, I just call the HLE and they deliver the car to the shop for us (my wife generally).

Pat

with 2-hour advance notice. I have never used this benefit, but others have confirmed it works.