FAQ
If you have any questions, we have collected the most common ones here and answered them.
What is included in the rental price?
The rental price Includes technical inspection, compulsory insurance, emergency insurance, vignette for toll roads in Slovakia. The rental price does not include fuel costs, paid parking and fines.
What is the minimum or maximum age of the driver?
Minimum driver's age is 18 years (for VAN - 23 years and minimum 3 years of driving experience). There is an additional fee for drivers between 18 and 21 years of age.
Can I rent a car if I will not pick up the car and I am not going to be the driver?
No, the person who is mentioned as a general driver in the car rental agreement and picks up the car must be the same person who pays with his own credit or debit card.
If I have issues during the reservation process, who can I contact?
You can always contact our office, also using WhatsApp on +421 951 245 740 or writing on info@barkro.com
Can I cancel or modify my booking after confirmation?
BARKRO provides both flexible adjustments and cancellation free of charge for all our customers. Also our service provides unlimited modifications after confirmation, but at least 48 hours before the start the rental.
Reservations paid in full or in part can be cancelled by the Renter at least 48 hours before the start of the rental without penalty. If the reservation is cancelled less than 48 hours before the start of the rental, a fee of 50 euros or the full rental price, if less, will be charged. You can change your booking by calling +421 951 245 740 or by writing to info@barkro.com. If you have entered your credit card details to guarantee your booking, you agree that we may charge a fee of 50 euros, or the full amount if less, to that credit card unless you cancel the booking and collect the car on the day of collection.
What payment methods are possible when picking up the car?
In our company we accept payment in cash or by debit or credit card. Deposit must be by credit card only. Deposit by debit card is possible for some car category.
Which credit cards do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Maestro, JCB and UnionPay. We do not accept prepaid or electron cards, travel cards.
Can I pick a specific car model?
While we make an effort to consider the preferences of every client, unfortunately, we cannot promise a specific model; we can only assure the chosen category of car.
Is it possible to deliver the car to the address?
Yes, our company provides free delivery within Bratislava on any address from 2 days rental. Additional fees to any locations you can see in our price list.
What is the minimum rental period?
You can rent our vehicles for just a few hours according to your needs, but please note that the minimum billing period is 24 hours. The times for picking up and returning the vehicle are determined at the time of booking.
Is there a maximum vehicle rent period?
The maximum rent period is 30 days. Of course, if you need a car for more than 30 days, you can take advantage of our offers in long-term car rentals.
What documents are required when picking up the car?
Required documents for individuals:
- Passport or ID card, as well as a document confirming legal stay in the EU territory (visa, residence permit etc.)
- Valid driver's license
- Debit or credit card (in the name of the main driver specified in the car rental agreement).
Required documents for legal entities:
- Certificate of registration
- Power of attorney for signing the car rental agreement and accepting the vehicle, if the agreement is not signed by the person indicated in the trade registry extract
- Extract from the trade registry
- Identification and driver's license of the person who will be using the vehicle.
Can I leave my rental car at a different location than where you pick it up?
Yes, it is possible. To do this, you need to select the required location at the time of booking and the price of the return service at that location will be added to the rental price at the time of booking.
Can pick up and drop off be selected outside the working hours of the office?
Yes, but if you pick up or drop off the vehicle outside of our office hours, an additional fee applies, which will be specified during the booking process.
What is a deposit?
In order to ensure the fulfillment of all financial (payment) obligations to the Lessor, the Lessee must provide a deposit in the amount determined by the Agreement upon signing. If the Lessee fails to fulfill their obligations to the Lessor or fulfills their obligations improperly, the Lessor has the right to satisfy their claims against the Lessee from the deposited funds.
The deposit amount can be secured on the cardholder's account by using a bank card. In this process, rather than being directly withdrawn, the specified amount is temporarily held or blocked in form pre-autorisation on the card to ensure the deposit. This means no funds are actually transferred to the company's account initially; instead, the deposit is simply reserved against the card's available balance.
After fulfilling all obligations of the Lessee to the Lessor, the deposit will be returned in full or in part. If the obligations of the Lessee exceed the amount of the deposited funds, the Lessor has the right to use the entire amount of the deposit to fulfill the Lessee's obligations and demand payment for the uncovered part of the obligations.
How much deposit amount should I leave when I get the car?
Deposit amount depends on the car category and it will be indicated when selecting a car at the time of booking.
When will i get a deposit back?
The deposit made by a bank card will be unblocked within 7 (seven) business days from the moment of returning the vehicle and handing over the keys and documents of the vehicle to the lessor.
For some car categories, the deposit can be left in cash. In this case the Lessee acknowledges that the cash deposit may be held for up to 12 months after the termination of the lease, after which the funds may be returned to the Lessee.
How do I prolong the rental period?
To extend your rental period, you may do so either in writing or in person at our office at least 48 hours before your rental is due to end. The cost for extending will be determined according to our current price list.
Can i share the car with another driver?
Yes, if you have the option “Additional driver“ in your rental agreement.
When and where is it necessary to return the car?
You should return the car to the location which is mentioned in your car rental agreement. The rental agreement is closed when you return the car to the BARKRO station and hand the car keys and car documents to our agent.
How can I check the fuel type the rented vehicle uses?
So, you could be certain what type of fuel the rented vehicle uses, the outside part of the fuel tank has a sticker with the needed fuel type. For added visibility there is also a factory mark on the inside part of the fuel tank cap.
How much fuel do I need to return the car with?
You get the car with a full fuel tank and you have to return the car with the full fuel level. Fines for unfilled fuel you can see here.
What do I do if I used the wrong fuel type?
If you accidentally refuel the vehicle with the incorrect type of fuel, it's important not to attempt starting the engine to avoid any additional damage. Instead, reach out to our support team. They will arrange the best and most cost-effective solution for you, ensuring you can proceed with your journey without further complications.
Does the rented vehicle have all the mandatory equipment and where can it be found?
All the vehicles in our fleet are equipped with the mandatory equipment per the local and European laws and regulations. The mandatory equipment consists of a reflective vest, signal triangle, first aid kit and tyre repair kit or spare wheel with jack (it depends on car model you choose).
How do I get assistance when a breakdown happens?
Even with all efforts to prevent car breakdowns, they can still happen occasionally. That's why BARKRO has set up a special roadside assistance service that's available 24/7.
If your car breaks down, you can find the assistance phone number in your rental agreement or directly in the car.
When calling for help, try to provide as much information about the breakdown as possible: the car's registration number, its model, VIN, the specific problem, exact location, your contact number.
The car assistance service try to reach and assist you within an hour of your call, but sometimes it might take a bit longer. We'll let you know when to expect help as soon as you call.
If possible this service will fix the car right there so you can continue your journey. If the car can't be fixed on the spot, they will tow the car to the nearest service station and we will replace the car for you.
What should i do in case of theft or any accidents with the car during the rental?
In the event of an accident and if there are injured people, please call the Emergency services first. For Europe call 112. The Lessee must submit a report drawn up in accordance with the statutory procedure (you can find a report for this in your vehicle) documents as well as satisfactory information about the other parties, participants in the incident or witnesses, also report the incident to our company by e-mail info@barkro.com or tel. +421 951 245 740
What to do in case of car key loss?
If you happen to lose your car keys, please get in touch with our technical support team. They will coordinate the delivery of a spare key to your location and provide you with information regarding any additional costs that will be included in your bill at the time of vehicle drop-off.
What insurance options are available when renting a car and what do they include?
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
This insurance is always included in the rental cost. It limits the lessee's financial responsibility in case of damage to the vehicle resulting from collision, vandalism, theft or attempted theft. The amount of responsibility also depends on the chosen vehicle category.
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) insurance
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) releases the lessee from financial responsibility in case of damage to the vehicle, windshield, mirrors, headlights resulting from collision, theft or attempted theft.
Theft insurance (TP)
This insurance covers the theft or attempted theft of the vehicle you have rented.
This insurance protects you from liability in the followings situations:
- Theft of the vehicle and any accessories resulting from burglary and intrusion (accessories refer to any components installed in the vehicle by the lessor and/or the manufacturer).
- Attempted theft of the vehicle and any accessories.
- Any act of vandalism against the vehicle while it is stationary and unattended by you.
- Any windows, headlights, or reflectors that may be damaged or broken as a result of theft or attempted theft.
This insurance does not cover damage in the following cases:
- If the vehicle is stolen or damaged due to your negligence or, in particular (but not limited to), if the keys and documents were left in the vehicle when it was unattended and/or were given to an unauthorized person.
- Your failure to use the anti-theft system properly and any inability to return the keys and documents to us, or if you left the vehicle unlocked when you were not using it.
- Theft or damage to your personal belongings or any items transported in or on the vehicle. TP insurance is included in all insurances. The deductible amount depends on the tariff you choose and the vehicle category.
What damage is not covered by insurance?
The insurance does not cover any cases resulting from violation of the terms of the rental agreement, such as:
- Operating the vehicle by a person without prior written consent from the Company;
- Allowing a person younger than the minimum age specified in this agreement to operate the vehicle;
- Providing unlicensed individuals with driving lessons using the vehicle;
- Using the vehicle to tow or push any other vehicle, trailer, or object;
- Participating in any races, tests, or competitions;
- Using the vehicle for any illegal purposes or criminal activities;
- Transporting passengers in violation of the law (e.g., transporting children without child seats, etc.);
- Transporting animals;
- Overloading the vehicle beyond its nominal carrying capacity;
- Operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other substances, such as drugs or toxic substances, or under any other physical or mental condition that impairs the driver's health and/or affects their ability to operate the vehicle;
- Intentional damage to the vehicle or its loss;
- Operating the vehicle in areas where driving is prohibited (rivers, lakes, snowy areas, Grossglockner High Alpine Road, etc.). If the driver is forced to leave the main road due to road repair, the insurance company will cover the damage;
- Operating the vehicle in an unsafe, reckless, careless, or negligent manner;
- Serious violations of traffic rules;
You can find more detailed information in TERMS and CONDITIONS
If I have insurance with a different company, do I also need to take your insurance?
While it's not mandatory to opt for our collision damage waiver or insurance packages, should any damage occur to the vehicle, you will be held responsible for costs as outlined in our price list.
If you have insurance from another provider, such as through your credit card or the agency you booked with, an insurance deductible will still apply based on the vehicle's category because it's considered indirect insurance. Upon returning the vehicle, we will provide you with copies of any relevant documentation related to the incident, including European accident statement and the police report, if available at that time.
What happens if I get a road fine?
In the event of a traffic infringement, the Lessor reserves the right to additionally invoice and demand payment and the Lessee agrees to pay the traffic fine to the Lessor's account or the Lessor has the right to unilaterally deduct the fine from the deposit amount as agreed without the Lessee's prior consent. The Lessee is obliged to reimburse all costs incurred by the Lessor, including operating costs (traffic fines, etc.).
Can my credit card be charged after the rental period?
Should there be a requirement for additional payment following the conclusion of your rental period, we will communicate this to you through email.
Potential reasons for additional charges include:
- Parking fines;
- Traffic violations;
- Vehicle damages, or instances where the fuel level at drop-off is lower than at pick-up, identified after the vehicle is returned via the key box;
- Damages that become apparent after the vehicle is cleaned, if they were not noticeable at the time of drop-off.
Can the vehicle be returned before the time stated on the contract?
You're welcome to return the vehicle earlier than the contract specifies, but it's important to be aware that, as a general policy, we don't issue refunds for the unused rental time. However, in special circumstances, the company may decide to refund all or part of the rental amount at its discretion. Be mindful that price adjustments could occur due to variances between the conditions at the time of booking and the current conditions.
If your reservation and payment were made through a rental agency, and you're seeking a potential deduction in your cost, you should reach out to them directly for assistance.
How do I return the vehicle outside of working hours to the “Key Box”?
If you are returning the vehicle outside of the regular working hours of the office and leaving the keys in the “Key Box” specified for such a purpose, be certain to leave the vehicle in the agreed drop of location, make sure it is secure and lock it.
After you drop off the vehicle make certain you photograph it from all sides, note the exact mileage and fuel level.
If after check up by a BARKRO employee, additional damages are discovered, we will inform you of the costs incurred via email, as well as back them up with photos and necessary documentation.
Is it allowed to smoke in your cars?
Smoking in our cars is strictly prohibited, including using electronic smoking devices.
Is it allowed to carry pets in the car?
In BARKRO there are no restrictions for pet transportation. In this way, please keep your attention on cleanliness and damage to the car interior. Otherwise there will be a penalty for cleaning. Also damaged interior is not covered by insurance.
Can I travel abroad and which countries can I visit?
The Lessee must inform BARKRO about trips abroad and the destinations of their travels.
It is allowed to travel without additional fee to the following countries (Zone 1): Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary.
For an additional fee it is allowed to travel to the following countries (Zone 2): Croatia, Slovenia. Zone 2 includes Zone 1.
For an additional fee, it is allowed to travel to the following countries (Zone 3): Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Poland, Switzerland, Monaco. Zone 3 includes Zone 1 and Zone 2.
Travel to Albania, Andorra, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, United Kingdom, island nations, and African countries is prohibited. Travelling to these countries is only permitted on request and with the consent of the Lessor.
What do I need to know when traveling to Austria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Germany and Hungary?
Vignettes and Road Fees
Is a vignette required for driving on highways in Austria?
Yes, it's required for highways. It can be purchased at the border, at gas stations or you can buy it online on shop.asfinag.at Of course, if necessary, when booking a car you can select this option and we will purchase it for you. For locations Vienna, Vienna Airport or other locations in Austria on request this option is mandatory and will be selected automatically when booking. Besides the general vignette required for highways, Austria imposes special tolls on certain routes.
Here are the specific roads where an additional toll is charged:
- Toll section A 1 West Autobahn between der Staatsgrenze am Walserberg and der Anschlussstelle Salzburg Nord,
- Toll section A 12 Inntal Autobahn between der Staatsgrenze bei Kufstein and der Anschlussstelle Kufstein-Süd,
- Toll section A 14 Rheintal/Walgau Autobahn between der Staatsgrenze bei Hörbranz and der Anschlussstelle Hohenems, Toll section A 26 Linzer Autobahn (currently still under construction).
These tolls can be paid at dedicated toll booths located before the entrance to these roads or tunnels. More detailed information can be found on asfinag.at/maut-vignette/vignette
Do I need a vignette to drive on roads in the Czech Republic?
Yes, for most highways. Available at the border or you can buy it online on edalnice.cz/jednoduchy-nakup
Are there road tolls when entering Croatia?
Croatia has a system of toll roads, fees for which depend on the distance traveled.
Is a vignette required for driving on highways in Hungary?
Yes, a vignette is mandatory for using highways and some major roads in Hungary. You can purchase it at the border or online through nemzetiutdij.hu/en Of course, if necessary, when booking a car you can select this option and we will purchase it for you. Keep in mind that when purchasing a Hungarian vignette on your own, you must indicate the category of the vehicle, namely D1 (maximum 7 people) or D2 (more than 7 people). It is the number of seats in the car that should be taken into account and not the number of passengers. Specifying the wrong car category will be equivalent to the absence of a vignette.
International Driving Permits
Are international driving permits required for driving in Austria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Germany and Hungary?
For drivers from EU and EEA countries, national licenses are sufficient. Drivers from other countries are recommended to have an international driving permit.
Speed Limits
What are the speed limits on roads in Austria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Germany, and Hungary?
- In Austria and Hungary: 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on main roads outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on highways.
- In Germany: The recommended speed on autobahns is 130 km/h, with some sections having no speed limit; in urban areas, the limit is 50 km/h.
- In the Czech Republic: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on roads outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on highways.
- In Croatia: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.
Environmental Stickers
Is an environmental sticker required for entering the center of some cities in Germany?
Yes, a special sticker is required to enter the environmental zones of most major cities.
What I need to know about parking in Bratislava?
Bratislava updated its parking rules. Now, the city is increasing the number of parking zones bit by bit.
You can find all the details about parking rules on paas.sk/casto-kladene-otazky. They have specific sections that explain everything about where you can park and the rules for each zone. The city has outlined where these parking zones are and what the rules are for each zone on paas.sk/mapa-zon
In the event that the rules of the parking policy are violated (paas.sk/pravidla), the city remembers such situations with sanctions (paas.sk/kontrola-parkovania) in the form of objective liability.
First of all, the owner of the vehicle is sanctioned, who then identifies the user of the vehicle. This procedure creates an administrative process that also burdens the Lessor of the vehicle and is charged an administrative fee by BARKRO.
Can I put stickers on the car?
If you are renting the vehicle for a longer period, such procedures can be approved, but only with our written consent, and guarantee that these procedures will not cause damage to the vehicle. if we approve this, you are obliged to return the vehicle in the state that you received it in.