Negotiate a deal with a supplier. Because car-rental costs are usually lower than air costs in a company's budget, they can be overlooked in corporate travel plans, Ms. Ferrari notes. Arranging a deal with a rental agency can result in preferred pricing, she says. Negotiating a corporate agreement also may include benefits such as reduced insurance premiums on the rentals, says Nancy Lombardi, director of operations for Merit Travel Group in Toronto. Belong to frequent-booking programs.
Many rental companies reward loyalty with discounts.
Investigate what is available. Fill the tank before you return the car. Check your rental agreement to see whether you need to return the car with a full tank of gas. Use points to upgrade. If a luxury car is necessary to make the right impression or a minivan is needed to carry supplies, use loyalty points to upgrade.