Broker

What it means

A car rental broker sells rentals on behalf of rental companies (suppliers). It contracts with them at net or commissionable rates, takes the booking, often takes payment up front and issues a voucher or confirmation. The broker doesn't own or operate the cars: at pickup you sign the rental agreement with the rental company, and its terms apply to the car.

Why it matters

Knowing who's who tells you who to call. Booking questions, changes and refunds usually go to the broker; the car, the counter and the rental agreement belong to the rental company.

Wording by region

Broker vs travel agent: a broker sells rentals as its own product, at its own price. A travel agent books on the traveler's behalf and usually earns a commission. An agent may book a rental through a broker.

Related terms

• Travel agentA person or business that books travel for customers and is usually paid a commission by the travel company.
• Net rateThe price a rental company charges a reseller before the reseller adds its own margin.

Also related Supplier / operator, Voucher, Rental agreement, Wholesaler / consolidator