If you’re considering diving into the world of Turo rental, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m going to walk you through the products you need for a Turo rental business. So, let’s get started.
First things first, you’re going to need a car. That’s a given. But beyond that, let’s delve into what I like to call the “Turo Starter Kit.” These are the essential tools and equipment that will help streamline your Turo rental process and ensure a positive experience for both you and your guests.
Now, let’s talk about the Turo Starter Kit. I’ll be sure to include affiliate links to all the products mentioned in the description below for your convenience.
1. Ozone Generator
Whether people smoke in your car isn’t a question of “if” but “when.” So, it’s important to understand that your car will, at some point, be exposed to smoke. Trust me, thinking your car will never be smoked in is just fooling yourself. Now, if you have longer breaks between rentals, you’ve got a bit more time to work on removing any cigarette or weed odors. However, there might be times when you’re in a tight spot, with only a few hours to spare before your next customer, who could be a family with kids, comes to pick up the car. The last thing you want is to hand over a car that reeks of weed.
In such scenarios, the number one type of products you need for a Turo rental business is an ozone generator becomes your best friend. This device can eliminate about 95% of the smell in less than an hour, making your car ready for the next guest. The model I rely on is one I found on Amazon for $60, and it has proven to be a lifesaver in my first ten weeks with Turo. You can find another similar model on Amazon for $65, although it doesn’t ship to California.
Just a heads-up, relying on Febreze or any kind of perfume as a quick fix is not going to cut it, especially if you’re expecting guests soon. No cherry-scented spray can shield you from a bad review if your car smells like weed. So, investing in an ozone generator isn’t being extravagant—it’s being smart and considerate for your guests.
2. Lockbox
Next up, the number two type of products you need for a Turo rental business let’s talk about a lockbox. For Turo hosts, a lockbox is a fantastic tool to provide a seamless, contact-free check-in and check-out process for your guests. It works simply: you attach the lockbox to the car’s window and place the key inside. After your guest finishes verifying their ID remotely, you can send them the lockbox code. This way, they can access the key and start their trip without any hassle. While you can find many lockbox options on Amazon, don’t just opt for the cheapest one. It’s wise to read through the reviews and steer clear of products with average ratings, like those around 3.5 stars. Remember, the quality of what you buy often matches its price. The one I prefer is a key guard priced at $56, you can see the lockbox below. Keep an eye out for discounts during holiday sales or Prime Day. This lockbox includes a rubber cover to block wind and moisture and has padding on the back to protect your car window from scratches.
If your car can be unlocked and started with a traditional key, a lockbox alone should suffice. However, if your vehicle operates with a key fob, you’ll need the next item on our list.
3. Radio Frequency Signal Blocking Pouch
A radio frequency signal blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag. Without one, there’s a risk your car could be unlocked by someone else, posing a security risk. Here’s how it works: if the key fob is inside the lockbox without protection, anyone could potentially unlock the car. But, by placing the key fob inside a Faraday bag, you block its signal, securing the car. The pouch should be small enough to fit inside the lockbox. I bought a Lampard Faraday bag that came in a small size for just $10 and included two pouches. It’s a budget-friendly option that effectively does its job
4. GPS Tracker
Moving on to item number four: a GPS tracker. A GPS tracker is super helpful if your car gets stolen, if it’s returned late, or if the renter won’t bring it back. There are several types of GPS trackers available. Some connect directly to your car’s OBD port. For example, the Bouncie model is priced at $77 and has an $8 monthly subscription, while the Optimus tracker is a more affordable $29.95 with a monthly fee of $12.95. However, keep in mind that these can be easily removed from the OBD port, even by someone as young as my five-year-old niece, with a little instruction.
Another budget-friendly option is the Apple AirTag, which costs about $29 or $99 for a pack of four. This is a simpler way to keep tabs on your vehicle. There’s also the Optimus 3.0, a magnetic GPS tracker that costs $39.95. Although it needs to be recharged, a full charge lasts a whole month. Plus, you can place it anywhere in your car, thanks to its magnetic attachment, making it less noticeable.
For those who want even more security, consider a hard-wired tracker like the Trackmate GPS T11. This tracker not only tracks your vehicle but also lets you lock and unlock your doors remotely and even disable your car with a kill switch. It offers a lot more peace of mind.
5. Tire Tread Gauge
Number five: a Tire Tread Gauge. It’s impossible to predict when someone might decide to speed off as soon as the traffic light turns green or start doing donuts during street takeovers. There’s even a chance someone might switch out your good tires for ones with less tread, hoping you won’t notice. Honestly, there’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t have a tire tread gauge. They’re super affordable, costing just $4.25 – $15 dollars, which is a fraction of what you might spend on replacing a tire.
Making a habit of checking your tire treads before each trip can save you from facing much larger expenses down the road. For such a small investment, a tire tread gauge can help you keep track of your tires’ condition and ensure your car stays safe and ready for the road.
6. Portable Vacuum
Number Six: The importance of having a vacuum. For hosts who prefer cleaning their cars at home, owning a vacuum isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential. Consider investing in a robust vacuum like the Vacmaster, available on Amazon for $144 It’s perfect for those deep-cleaning sessions your vehicle might need after extensive use.
However, not every rental will leave your car in a state requiring heavy-duty vacuuming. For the times when you have a quick turnaround between guests, and the car isn’t too dirty, a smaller, portable vacuum could be exactly what you need. It’s all about being prepared for any situation. Ideally, it’s great when someone rents your car for a longer period, such as a 30-day rental, because it often means less frequent cleaning.
But reality can be quite different, and you may find yourself with back-to-back one-day rentals. Generally, cars returned from short rentals aren’t too messy, but there are always exceptions. Being equipped with the right tools, like a good vacuum, ensures you’re ready to keep your car in top condition, no matter how short or long the rental period is.
7. Microfiber Cloths
Moving on to the last item number seven: microfiber cloths. Honestly, do I even need to go into detail here? It’s pretty much a given that anyone operating a Turo business must have microfiber cloths on hand. They’re an absolute necessity for keeping your car clean and shiny without scratching the surface. Plus, they’re incredibly affordable. You can easily grab a pack of eight high-quality microfiber cloths for just six dollars on Amazon. This small investment will keep your vehicles looking their best, ensuring happy customers and great reviews
Conclusion
In wrapping up, each of these items plays a crucial role in the success and smooth operation of your Turo business. From ozone generators and lockboxes for ensuring your car is fresh and accessible, to GPS trackers for security, and the essential vacuum and microfiber cloths for maintaining cleanliness, these tools are indispensable. They not only enhance the guest experience but also protect your investment and reputation as a host.
Investing in these tools is not just about meeting the basic requirements; it’s about going above and beyond to provide a service that stands out. It’s the attention to detail with items like tire tread gauges and the readiness for any situation with both heavy-duty and portable vacuums that can set your Turo business apart from the rest. The affordability and effectiveness of these items mean there’s no excuse not to have them as part of your hosting arsenal.
Remember, the goal is to create a seamless, enjoyable experience for your guests while safeguarding your vehicle and your business. By equipping yourself with these seven essential items, you’re not only preparing for the day-to-day demands of car rental but also investing in the long-term success and sustainability of your Turo business. Here’s to providing top-notch service, earning those five-star reviews, and growing your business with confidence and care.
Here is a out list of products you need for a Turo rental business. HERE
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