When it comes to choosing the best car rental company for your needs, two giants dominate the landscape: Hertz and Enterprise. These industry leaders offer a range of services, rewards programs, and pricing structures designed to cater to everyone from frequent business travelers to families on vacation. But which one comes out on top?

In this in-depth comparison, we’ll dive into key factors like pricing, fleet size, customer satisfaction, airport locations, and loyalty programs. Whether you’re a traveler looking to save money, a frequent renter aiming for elite status, or someone simply seeking convenience, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of Hertz and Enterprise will help you make the best choice for your next trip.

Fleet Size and Availability

One of the first things to consider when choosing a car rental company is fleet size. Hertz boasts one of the largest fleets in the world, offering cars that range from economy to luxury models. If you’re traveling to a major city or renting from major airports, chances are Hertz has the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Enterprise, on the other hand, stands out for its focus on local markets. With thousands of neighborhood branches across the country, Enterprise is often the go-to rental agency for those looking to rent a car near their home. For travelers in Wisconsin, check out options like Green Baycar rental or Appleton car rental.

Rewards Programs: Hertz Gold vs Enterprise Plus

Loyalty rewards programs are essential for frequent travelers, and both Hertz and Enterprise excel in this area.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards

Hertz offers its Gold Plus Rewards program, which allows members to earn points for every dollar spent. These points can be redeemed for free rental days or upgrades. Travelers can also work their way up to elite status, such as President’s Circle, where members earn perks like guaranteed upgrades and expedited service.

For those with an Amex Platinum Card, Hertz provides additional benefits, such as automatic gold status, helping cardholders save time at the rental counter.

Enterprise Plus and Emerald Club

Enterprise’s rewards program is similarly appealing. Members of Enterprise Plus can earn points with every rental, and these points never expire as long as there is activity in the account within three years. Additionally, Enterprise is part of Enterprise Holdings, which owns Alamo and National, allowing customers to benefit from multiple brands. For example, Emerald Club from National provides seamless upgrades and perks when renting from Enterprise.

Whether you’re renting from an airport location or a neighborhood branch, both programs offer opportunities to save money and enjoy good discounts.

Pricing and Discounts

For many travelers, cost is the most critical factor. Both Hertz and Enterprise offer competitive prices, but the better deal often depends on the specifics of your trip.

• Hertz Offers: Hertz tends to shine in providing elite status benefits, which can translate into cheaper upgrades or faster service. Travelers who rent frequently at major airports often find Hertz to be the more cost-effective choice in the long run due to its extensive perks.

• Enterprise Offers: Enterprise prides itself on transparency, with no hidden fees and a wide array of options for rented cars at good discounts, especially for local rentals.

If you’re traveling in Wisconsin, Enterprise’s deals in locations like Oshkosh car rental or Shawanocar rental can help you stick to your budget while enjoying reliable service.

Customer Satisfaction

When it comes to customer satisfaction, both Hertz and Enterprise score highly, but they cater to different priorities.

Hertz:

Hertz frequently ranks at the top of JD Power satisfaction surveys for its professional service at rental counters in airport locations. Their focus on providing seamless experiences for business travelers and loyalty members makes them a favorite among frequent renters.

Enterprise:

Enterprise’s focus on local service means they excel in convenience and friendliness. Many customers appreciate the ability to rent a car close to home without needing to travel to an airport. Enterprise also provides insurance options that are straightforward and affordable, making them a great choice for those renting for personal use.

Perks and Upgrades

Both companies offer unique perks and benefits that enhance the car rental experience.

• Hertz Benefits: Hertz’s President’s Circle members enjoy guaranteed upgrades and vehicle availability even during blackout dates. This is ideal for travelers looking for reliability.

• Enterprise Benefits: Enterprise provides one-point pickup/drop-off services, allowing customers to return their rental at a different location. This flexibility can be especially helpful for long-distance trips.

For example, customers renting from Door County car rental can conveniently return their vehicle to another branch without hassle.

Frequent Renter Programs: Earning Points

If you’re a frequent renter, maximizing points earned is essential.

• Hertz’s Rewards: With Gold Plus Rewards, you earn points for every dollar spent. Members with gold status or higher earn additional points per rental, making it easier to redeem for upgrades or free days.

• Enterprise’s Rewards: Enterprise Plus allows members to accumulate points quickly. Additionally, Emerald Club members can access premium cars at no extra charge.

Both programs provide a clear path to rewards for frequent travelers, but Hertz’s structure is often considered more rewarding for those aiming to earn free rentals quickly.

Airport Convenience

For airport travelers, Hertz often emerges as the clear winner. Their presence at major airportsensures travelers can pick up their rental car without hassle. Hertz’s streamlined reservation system and self-service kiosks reduce waiting time, making it a favorite among business travelers.

However, Enterprise’s focus on neighborhood locations means they are often a better choice for renters who don’t need to travel to an airport to pick up their car. Consider locations like Fond du Lac car rental or Sheboygan car rental for easy access to reliable vehicles.

Conclusion: Hertz vs Enterprise

In the battle of Hertz vs Enterprise, the clear winner depends on your needs.

• Choose Hertz if you value airport convenience, elite status perks, and a robust rewards program. Hertz’s focus on business travelers and frequent renters makes it ideal for those who prioritize time-saving features and premium options.

• Opt for Enterprise if you’re looking for local convenience, straightforward pricing, and a broader range of affordable options. Enterprise’s neighborhood presence and friendly service make it a go-to choice for personal rentals.

Regardless of your choice, both companies provide excellent service, rewards, and vehicle options. For Wisconsin travelers, explore options like Manitowoc car rental or Shiocton car rental to make your next trip unforgettable.

Happy renting!