Originally Posted by
IAHtraveler
Several times, I've had the wrong car in a specific slot, so I no longer trust this method. The keys are a sure bet.
If you can locate the unit number, that's the best bet. If you aren't sure where to find the unit number (not sure specifically how Avis does it, but look for a barcode on the windshield or rear window), they should be able to find the car you want by license plate number.
Originally Posted by
lowfareair
If you walk up with a reservation and request a specific vehicle that's in a higher class, the agent knows you are more willing to pay for an upgrade.
Indeed. A good salesperson picks up on these cues. The key to getting a good price on an upgrade is to act like you are sorta kinda tempted by the car (not overly excited) but that the price difference is a major obstacle. Rental agents are trained to respond to the customer's objections in specific ways. Someone who says, "Hmm, that's just a
little too expensive" might find the upgrade offer discounted a few percent (i.e. from $50 to $40), while someone who says, "I'd like it, but that's WAY more than I wanted to spend!" might find the upgrade offer discounted from $50 to $15.
Originally Posted by
IAHtraveler
Really?? I've asked for higher class vehicles many times in the past and was rarely asked to pay more or charged more. Many times, they just said "it's not available" or "I can't do that for what you've booked" but they never assumed or knew I was willing to pay more... which I usually was *NOT*.
The agents you find must not be very motivated salespeople...
