In the modern world, purchasing a car takes a back seat compared to numerous options for obtaining a vehicle at a lower cost. Moreover, significant urbanization growth makes us increasingly value our time and comfort, which is why we prefer a car to public transport. Among the most popular services, car rental or borrowing through car sharing stands out. It is often difficult to make a choice between the two services because these concepts are confusing. Car sharing provides minute-by-minute use, while car rental is long-term rental. To make it easier for you to decide which option is better, this article will examine both services and see which one offers more benefits to the driver.

Car sharing: distinctive features

Car sharing is a simplified car rental model designed for short-term use of vehicles with a deposit. When using car sharing services, you deposit a certain amount of money into your account and then can use any vehicle from the company's fleet when you need it. You only pay for the actual time you use the car. In addition, the car sharing system is designed to offer insurance, discounts on gasoline and other expenses, so that customers get even more benefits compared to owning their own car. Car sharing is even more advantageous than using taxi services. After all, in a taxi, you pay for both the car and the driver, whereas in car sharing, you only pay for the car.

Typical features of car sharing include:

— payment for time (per minute, hour, or day);
— ranked payment according to the selected tariff;
— the transaction does not require lengthy processing;
— pick-up and drop-off point is the nearest location to the customer;
— the ability to rent a car around the clock through the application;
— the full functionality of the offered vehicle;
— no need to refuel;
— convenient return of the car upon completion.

Let's say you have found a suitable car for transportation, located it on the map, and reserved it through the app. Tip: before unlocking the car and using the service, carefully inspect the car for dents, scratches, and other defects. Anything you notice should be photographed and uploaded to the app. The same goes for inspecting the interior. This way, you are proving that you did not damage the car, and that you took it in the condition in which you found it. For some companies, the cost per minute may vary depending on traffic conditions. It is better to clarify this point in advance to avoid being surprised by increased payment later on.

Benefits of car rental

Car rental is the provision of a car for a certain period of time. This service is an excellent option for people who need long-term transportation. A client who chooses a car rental booking engine can rent a car with or without a driver. The advantage of the service is the ability to choose from several vehicles the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Car rental provides the convenience of having a means of transportation for the duration of a trip or task, without having to worry about the expenses of maintaining the vehicle. Other advantages of renting a car include:

• Availability of insurance coverage;
• Affordable prices for the services;
• Ability to order a driver's service;
• A huge selection of models of different colors and brands;
• When booking for several days, rates can be more favorable than car sharing;
• No need to link your bank card.

One of the features of car rental that distinguishes it from car-sharing is the special car rental booking system. The client needs to visit the company's office to sign the contract and receive the keys. When renting a car, the following rules should be kept in mind:

1. Find out in advance the list of necessary documents for drawing up the contract;
2. Clarify with the manager for what purposes the deposit will be used and when it will be unblocked;
3. Inspect the car for damage and defects in the presence of an employee;
4. Do not leave documents in the car salon to avoid theft;
5. In case of an accident, take the consequences of the accident, call the police and report the incident to the rental company;
6. Keep the documents for several weeks after the end of the rental period to have proof in case of any problems.

What to choose: car rental or sharing?

When it comes to the need for a car for transportation, there is a difficulty: choosing car sharing or car rental. Everything depends on the situation for which you need the car. For a short period of time, if you need to get from one point of the city to another quickly and receive the service quickly, choose car sharing. This service is also perfect for one-day trips, being more economical than renting a car. Car sharing does not require hassle with paperwork, and the service can be ordered through special car sharing software.

Car rental is suitable for those who need a vehicle for a longer period of time. In turn, an advance payment for access to the vehicle is expected. The advance payment already includes insurance costs, so there is no need to worry about an additional policy if something happens during the car operation. However, gasoline expenses are not covered by rental companies, so you will have to pay separately for them. Rental also offers customers a much wider selection of car types - from sedans and SUVs to luxury cars, while car sharing usually only offers basic models.

Car sharing and car rental services offer many advantages and disadvantages for drivers. The decision about which option is more advantageous depends on your needs and preferences. Car sharing services are considered more economical for short trips, while car rental is the best option for longer trips. In any case, it is reasonable to carefully study both options before making any final decisions.