- Book Online 24/7 | Call (773) 800-9898, 7 days a week, 8 AM - 5 PM
- info@chicagovanrentals.com
At Chicago Van Rentals, our priority is a transparent, secure, and straightforward rental process. Please review the policies carefully as they form our binding rental agreement.
Every American and Canadian driver (the "primary renter") must have the following three items at the time of pickup:
(Note: International drivers from outside the USA and Canada have different requirements listed in section 1.5.)
We accept valid, government-issued driver's licenses. You can provide your license as a:
The standard age to rent any of our vans is 25 years or older.
We may make exceptions for renters aged 21 or older only under these specific conditions:
If you are visiting the United States and have a driver's license issued outside the US or Canada, you must provide:
Yes. All international drivers are required to purchase the necessary insurance coverage to drive in the United States and Canada. You can make a reservation online; our office will update the reservation by adding the required coverage, or you can contact our office so we can provide the quote with required coverage.
All other rental policies in this agreement apply to all customers, including international renters.
Every rental includes 250 free miles per day. Additional miles are charged at $0.35 per mile. The extra-mile charge is calculated at return and can be deducted from your authorization hold.
A security authorization hold is required at pickup. This is in addition to the total cost of your rental.
This hold is used to cover any potential additional charges like extra miles, fuel, toll violations, or parking tickets. We do not accept prepaid cards for the security hold.
To pay with a card not in your name, you must complete these steps at least 24 hours before pickup:
You must provide proof of full coverage insurance (Comprehensive and Collision) with liability coverage of at least 100/300 ($100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident).
If you do not have full coverage, or if your collision coverage does not transfer to a rental vehicle, you will be required to purchase our Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).
We offer several optional policies for your protection.
Yes, potentially one, but it's a paid add-on:
The requirements for all additional drivers are the same as for the primary renter:
No. Only the primary renter must be present at our location to pick up the van.
However, all additional drivers must be checked in 24 hours before pickup. To do this, they must use the link sent to you to upload their valid driver's license and proof of insurance. Our team will verify their documents for valid licensing and proper insurance coverage. Once satisfied, we will add them to the rental contract.
To provide the best service and availability for all our customers, we must adhere to a strict cancellation policy. Please read these terms carefully before booking.
If you are running late for your appointment, you must contact us immediately by calling/texting 773-800-9898 or emailing info@chicagovanrentals.com.
Our employees are multitasking (moving vehicles to other locations, taking vehicles for service) and cannot wait for you indefinitely. Letting us know you are late allows them to continue their work and coordinate your new arrival.
The primary renter is responsible for forwarding this link to all additional drivers. Every driver (both primary and additional) must use this link to upload:
Yes. We offer a guided, remote pickup process for several situations, including:
This is a simple process, but it is available only if you have completed the online self check-in and all your documents are verified in advance. Even if an employee is not physically present, someone will be available over the phone to guide you step-by-step.
Here is the procedure:
We do not offer free parking at our locations.
However, if we have space available, we may allow you to park your car safely at our location for a fee. While this service has a fee, many customers find it very convenient, as it allows you to avoid the cost and scheduling of a ride-share (like Uber) for pickup and drop-off.
Parking is not guaranteed and is subject to availability. You must email us first at info@chicagovanrentals.com to check for parking availability for your specific dates.
Because Chicago airports are the busiest in the country, traffic management will not allow us to park for more than two minutes. Therefore, you must complete all paperwork and payments before we dispatch the van. This includes:
Yes. As an alternative to terminal delivery, you can pick up the van at one of our locations:
When you return the van, we recommend you take pictures of the vehicle (inside and out) for your personal documentation.
In the event of any accident, regardless of its magnitude, you must follow these steps. This is mandatory.
Reporting the accident and gathering this information is critical. It ensures that all necessary steps are taken to address the incident comprehensively and facilitates a swift and efficient resolution.
The process is simple:
Due to a new engine design, our 2023-and-newer Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans (with the 2.0L diesel engine) may randomly display a sign prompting you to "add 1 quart of oil."
If you see this sign, please contact our office immediately. We will authorize you to purchase one quart of oil and add it. We will reimburse you for this expense. The required oil must meet the MB-Approval 229.52 specification (typically a 5W-30 synthetic oil) to protect the diesel engine.
We cover all authorized maintenance expenses. You have two options:
Your partnership in this process ensures the continued reliability of our vehicles and contributes to a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
We have created a YouTube video explaining exactly how to fill the DEF. You can watch it here: How to refill DEF in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (video).
Yes. We have a pamphlet inside the van and a YouTube video with small troubleshooting steps. Please review these for instructions. You can see the video here: Sprinter entertainment system video.
The power inverters in our vans are intended for the use of small personal electronic equipment only, such as cell phones, cameras, iPads, laptops, etc.
Yes. The outlets are not designed to supply unlimited power. You must not use high-powered appliances. This includes, but is not limited to:
Any other device that consumes excessive power
Connecting too many devices at once or using a high-powered appliance will lead to blowing a fuse or damaging the power inverter.
Similar to our entertainment systems, we do not offer discounts or refunds in the event of a power inverter failure. We are also not responsible for any damage to your personal devices connected to the inverter.
The renter is accountable for the full cost of replacing any blown fuse or repairing any damage resulting from exceeding the vehicle's power capacity. To avoid this, we advise you to connect only a few small devices at a time.
There is a master switch for the inverter, which is located in the front, to the left of the driver console. Please turn this switch OFF when you are not actively using the entertainment system or outlets. If you are having any issues with the power inverter, please also try turning this switch off and on.
Your safety is our top priority. Despite our dedicated maintenance, issues can occur. You must promptly notify us at 1-773-800-9898 of any mechanical issues to ensure we can provide swift assistance.
Please contact us at 1-773-800-9898 at any time. We will arrange for the vehicle to be towed to the nearest mechanic. We want you to rest, so we will issue vouchers for up to two (2) hotel rooms at a conveniently located hotel nearby. We will then assist you in getting back on the road as swiftly as possible in the morning.
If a serious mechanical malfunction requires the vehicle to stay at the repair shop overnight, we will provide vouchers for up to two (2) hotel rooms at a nearby hotel. However, you must get clearance from us before booking any hotel room.
If repairs cannot be completed within two business days, our policy is as follows:
If you choose to rent from a new company, you will be responsible for covering the costs of that new rental and any additional expenses incurred after our agreement is closed. We cannot guarantee that other vehicle rental companies will match our rates, vehicle configuration, amenities, or services. No additional compensation will be provided for the interruption to your trip.
We will cover or reimburse all mechanical repairs, as long as the issue is not the result of misuse (like misfuelling) or a collision with a foreign object.
Yes. For any repair exceeding $99, you must get our approval before the work is initiated. This policy protects both you and us from potential issues with less reputable mechanics.
Your safety is our absolute top priority, and it takes precedence over your schedule. You must adhere to our instructions regarding maintenance and repairs.
You have several options. Please refer to your addendum for full details.
The renter is responsible for flat tires. A flat tire is not considered a mechanical breakdown; it is typically caused by road hazards like driving over a nail, debris, or hitting a pothole, which can cause the tire to blow up. You are responsible for the cost of the repair or replacement of the tire.
STOP. Do NOT attempt to change the tire yourself. For your safety, every van has a spare tire, but you are not permitted to change it. You must call a tow service (using one of the numbers in 16.9), and a tow truck driver will be dispatched to change the tire for you.
It is crucial that you inform our office promptly so we can arrange to have the spare tire replaced.
Please provide this important information to the tow service. We have also created a YouTube video that shows the process for our vans, which you can share with the driver for reference: Spare tire on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (video)
A "Prohibited Use" is any action that violates the rules of our rental agreement. This includes, but is not limited to, things like towing, driving to an unauthorized country, or allowing an unauthorized person to drive.
A prohibited use is the most serious violation of our rental agreement. If you violate this policy, it will result in:
To the extent permitted by law, a prohibited use makes you liable for all associated costs. This includes, but is not limited to:
Yes. We offer vans equipped with Class III tow hitches and 2" receivers. Please note that there is an additional fee for using the tow hitch, which must be added to your reservation.
No. We do not rent trailers. Renters must provide their own trailer, along with the necessary ball and pin required to connect to our tow hitch.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 is equipped with a 7-pin connector and has a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs.
The Ford Transit Medium Roof is equipped with either a 4-pin blade or 7-pin connector and has a maximum towing capacity of 3,600 lbs.
Towing a trailer is undertaken entirely at your own risk. Operating a vehicle with a trailer can be challenging, and it is crucial that you are familiar with towing procedures.
No. Our Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) specifically excludes coverage for your personal trailer or any accidents or damage caused by it.
No. We do not assist in connecting or installing your trailer. Our hitches do not provide rear brake assist, and it is not possible to add this feature to the vehicle.
Before every rental, we meticulously test the hitch wiring with a trailer light tester to ensure it meets standard requirements. While we aim to assist if your trailer is not properly wired, we are not responsible for any changes, modifications, or repairs required for your trailer.
As one of the very few rental companies that allows towing, please be aware that in the rare event something happens to your van, finding a replacement vehicle available for towing may be challenging. Any additional costs incurred in such a scenario are not our responsibility.
This is critical: Most commercial tow operators, including our nationwide provider, will NOT tow a vehicle that has a trailer attached. In the event of a tow, you may be required to disconnect your trailer and leave it behind unattended. We strongly recommend you bring a tongue lock with you in case this becomes necessary.
No. We provide a properly wired hitch, which we test before you leave. We do not offer discounts or reimbursements for any other trailer-related issues.
The renter is responsible for all violations incurred during the rental period. This includes, but is not limited to:
Yes. In the event of any violation, a standard $50 administration fee will be charged in addition to the actual cost of the violation, fine, or toll.
This policy is in place to cover the administrative costs we incur for processing, managing, and resolving these infractions on your behalf.
We encourage all renters to drive responsibly, pay for all tolls as they occur, and adhere strictly to all traffic and parking regulations. This is the best way to ensure a safe and trouble-free rental experience.
Our vans are large vehicles and require special attention.
To ensure a safe and damage-free trip, you must avoid all low-clearance places. The renter is 100% responsible for any damage caused by striking an overhead object.
This includes, but is not limited to:
Yes. Due to the length and height of the vans, it is crucial that you take wide turns at all curves. By following these guidelines, you contribute to the safety of the vehicle and the surrounding infrastructure.
No. Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in all our vehicles.
To maintain a clean and pleasant environment, any cigarette smells (or other smoke/vape odors) detected upon return will result in cleanup and detailing fees starting at $500 and potentially higher.
Yes, we do permit pets in our vans
You are required to return the vehicle in the exact condition it was rented. It must be returned completely free from any pet hair, odors, or other residues.
If any evidence of a pet is found upon return (including hair, smells, etc.), a pet cleaning fee of $500 will be charged to cover the costs of deep cleaning and detailing.
With our van rental service, you have the flexibility to travel anywhere within the United States and Canada.
Travel to Mexico is strictly prohibited. When traveling, it is your responsibility to adhere to the specific rules and regulations of each state and province you visit. Different regions have varying requirements (like toll roads, speed limits, etc.), so we recommend familiarizing yourself with the local regulations of your intended destinations.
Yes, our one-way drop-off option provides the convenience for customers to return the van at any location within the USA and Canada, offering flexibility in your travel plans.
It is essential that you schedule this arrangement during your initial reservation process. We cannot guarantee a one-way drop-off after a rental has already begun.
The one-way drop-off charge is an all-inclusive fee. It covers all associated costs, including driver compensation, per diem, fuel, return airfare, tolls, taxis, hotels, vehicle depreciation, additional mileage, and other incidental expenses.
Yes, our delivery service allows for the convenience of having the van delivered to your specified location anywhere in the USA and Canada.
Delivery charges are determined based on the distance to the drop-off location. These charges are comprehensive, covering costs such as driver compensation, per diem, fuel, return airfare, tolls, taxis, hotels, vehicle depreciation, and other incidental expenses.
No. Due to factors like traffic, weather, and other elements beyond our control, we cannot guarantee an exact delivery time. We will provide you with a delivery window and strive to be as punctual as possible, but you should expect a potential variance of plus or minus 90 minutes from your requested delivery time.
You must return the van in the same clean condition that you received it in. This means the vehicle should be free of trash, spills, stains, pet hair, and other residues.
If the van is not returned in the same condition it was picked up, a minimum cleaning fee of $500 will be applied.
This fee is to cover the cost of professional detailing. This includes, but is not limited to, the removal of:
We must ensure the van is clean for the next customer, and this fee covers that extensive cleaning
cost.
info@chicagovanrentals.com