The Consolidated Rent a Car Facility is a shared rental counter at an airport
The Consolidated Rent a Car Facility (often called the Consolidated Car Rental Facility or CCRF) is a single building where multiple car rental companies operate from one location, usually at an airport. Instead of driving to separate rental offices scattered around the airport grounds, you go to one facility, find your rental company's counter inside, and complete your rental there. The facility handles the paperwork, payment, and vehicle assignment for all the companies that operate there.
Not every airport has a consolidated facility. Larger airports are more likely to have one, while smaller regional airports may have rental companies spread across different locations or operating from a single shared building with a different name. The facility itself is typically operated by the airport authority or a third-party management company, but the rental companies — Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, and others — remain separate businesses with their own counters, pricing, and policies.
Key Takeaways
- A consolidated facility groups multiple rental car companies under one roof at an airport, so you don't have to travel between separate locations.
- Each rental company maintains its own counter, rates, and policies inside the facility, so you still book and rent from the specific company you chose.
- You typically reach the facility by shuttle bus from the airport terminal, and the shuttle is usually free and runs frequently.
- The facility is designed to speed up the rental process by centralizing all the companies in one place, though wait times can still vary depending on how busy the airport is.
How to find and reach the consolidated facility at your airport
When you land, look for signs in the baggage claim area or at the ground transportation level that say "Rental Cars" or "Car Rental Facility." Most airports with a consolidated facility direct you to a shuttle bus stop. The shuttle is free and runs continuously throughout the day, picking up passengers every few minutes and dropping them at the facility. Some airports have the facility within walking distance or connected by a walkway, but this is less common.
Before you arrive, check your rental confirmation email — it usually tells you where to go and how to reach the facility. If you booked through a major company like Enterprise or Hertz, their website often has airport-specific instructions. If you're unsure, ask an airport information desk or ground transportation attendant; they can point you to the right shuttle stop.
What happens when you arrive at the facility
Once you're inside the consolidated facility, you'll see counters for different rental companies arranged in rows or sections. Find your company's counter and join the line. You'll present your driver's license, credit card, and rental confirmation. The agent will review your reservation, confirm the rental terms, ask about insurance and additional options, and then assign you a vehicle.
After you've completed the paperwork and paid, the agent will give you keys and direct you to the lot where your car is parked. Some facilities have the lot attached to the building; others require a short walk or another shuttle ride to the vehicles. The agent will tell you where to go and may give you a map or lot number.
Differences between a consolidated facility and separate rental locations
At a consolidated facility, all the rental companies are in one place, which saves you time if you're comparing prices or need to switch companies. You don't have to take multiple shuttles or navigate to different buildings. However, you still book with and rent from one specific company — the facility itself doesn't rent cars, it just houses the counters.
At airports without a consolidated facility, rental companies may operate from separate offices on the airport grounds, or some may be located off-site and require a longer shuttle ride. A few small airports have only one or two rental companies, so there's no need for a consolidated building. The rental experience — the paperwork, the rates, the vehicle condition — is the same regardless of the facility setup; only the physical layout changes.
Wait times and busy periods at the facility
Wait times at a consolidated facility depend on how many people are renting cars at the same time. Early morning and late evening are typically the busiest times, especially if multiple flights have just landed. Mid-afternoon is often quieter. If you're renting during a peak travel period — holidays, summer vacation, or a major event — expect longer lines.
You can reduce wait time by completing your rental paperwork online before you arrive, if your rental company offers it. Some companies let you skip the counter entirely and go straight to the lot if you've already paid and agreed to the terms. Check your confirmation email or your rental company's app to see if this option is available for your booking.
Returning your rental car at the facility
When you're ready to return the car, follow signs for "Returns" or "Car Rental Returns" at the airport. Most consolidated facilities have a separate return lot where you drive the car, park it in a designated area, and hand over the keys to an attendant. The attendant will inspect the vehicle for damage, check the mileage and fuel level, and give you a receipt.
Some facilities have a quick return process where you straightforward park and leave; the rental company inspects the car later and emails you the final receipt. Others require you to go back inside to the counter to complete the return. Your rental confirmation or the facility's website will tell you which process applies to your company and location.
What to know before you rent
Bring your driver's license, a credit card in your name, and your rental confirmation. Most rental companies require you to be at least 25 years old, though some rent to drivers as young as 21 for an extra daily fee. You'll need to provide proof of insurance — either your own policy or the rental company's coverage, which you can buy at the counter.
Ask about fuel options when you rent. Most companies offer a "full-to-full" option where you return the car with a full tank, or a "full-to-empty" option where you return it empty and pay for the fuel used. Understand the mileage terms — some rentals are unlimited, others charge per mile. These details are in your confirmation, but it's worth confirming them at the counter to avoid surprises when you return the car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to use the consolidated facility?
No. The facility itself is free to use. You pay only the rental company for the car, insurance, and fuel. Some airports charge a facility fee that's built into the rental rate, but this is set by the airport and the rental company, not by the consolidated facility operator.
Can I rent from one company and return to another company's counter?
No. You must return the car to the same rental company you rented from. Each company manages its own vehicles and return process. Returning to the wrong counter will cause confusion and delays in processing your return.
What if the shuttle bus to the facility is full?
Another shuttle will arrive within a few minutes. Shuttles run continuously and are designed to handle peak loads. If you're in a hurry, ask an airport attendant if there's a walking route or alternative transportation to the facility.
Do I need to book in advance, or can I rent a car when I arrive?
You can do either, but booking in advance usually gives you better rates and guarantees a vehicle will be available. Walk-up rentals are possible but may have limited inventory and higher prices, especially during busy travel periods.
How long does the rental process usually take?
If the line is short, you can complete the rental in 10 to 15 minutes. During busy times, it may take 30 minutes or longer. Pre-completing your paperwork online can cut this time significantly.