Hidden currency conversion fees (when choosing "pay at pick up")
Palma Airport - PMI, Mallorca
Warning: long post for a rather small issue. Company uses DCC (Direct Currency Conversion), meaning they convert to your local currency using an unfavourable rate and adding a 3.25 conversion fee). I asked specifically, when picking up the car, to pay in euros since companies are only allowed to use DCC if the customer explicitly agrees to this. Despite this I was charged in my local currency. This added approx. € 5 to my bill. Size of added fee will naturally vary depending on length of rental, choice of car etc.
I assume most people won't make the effort to fight this, which of course is why they do it. I contacted their customer service and was told they need to charge in the local currency if the card/bank used doesn't support payment in euros. Seemed more than a little ridiculous seeing as I've used the card several times throughout the trip. In order to refund the DCC charge they required a written statement from my bank that payment can be made in euros. I actually got such a statement and have asked for a refund - doubt I'll get it though.
Just thought this might be interesting since Europcar, Hertz and Avis is in more or less the same price range and I've never experienced this behaviour from the last two. Going to stick with them from now on. Apart from this "small" nitpick everything worked out well. Fast check out, fast return procedure and helpful staff. Europcar is certainly no Goldcar or OK Car Hire but there's still some room for improvement. read more