Called National & got EC #....

[workinmom]

I mailed my "fee waived" registration form in a couple weeks ago but I was anxious to get my info in the mail so I called & got the membership # over the phone.
I plugged in the DC contract # & the discount code for an intermediate & the price was exactly the same as without EC. I was a little disappointed, but then I checked full size car. The price w/taxes was $151.14...the exact same price as intermediate car. My trip is in October & we're flying into Tampa b/c the prices were $143 RT.
Is this the way EC usually works, saves you money on full size vs. intermediate? I think I plugged all the discounts in correctly. Any helpful info would be appreciated...I'm new to rental cars.

 

[lady400]

You are exactly right, it makes a full-size the same price as an intermediate. Some EC contract id's issued from certain organizations come with a built-in discount (my Capital One issued one does), but it's 15%, and the DC contract id is giving you 20% anyway. You can't use two contract based discounts, but in some cases, you can additionally apply a coupon, just as you are doing.

You also now have Emerald Aisle service, correct? If you were to get lucky when you arrive, you could possibly drive away with a SUV or other larger vehicle. It's luck of the draw, but now you're guaranteed a full-size.

Be sure to keep checking, though, between now and your trip. Sometimes the rates drop.

 

[pbhunt]

Yes, a recent test confirmed that the greatest benefit you can receive from Emerald Club is that you can reserve a full size car for the same price as an intermediate car. It also allows you to use the Emerald Aisle and Emerald choice for quick in/out. This is to your advantage because you are only guaranteed the size of car you reserved. If there are only intermediates on the Aisle, you will be given an intermediate. Reserving a full size guaranties that you will receive a full size and possibly an even nicer car.....

 

[StilesMom]

workinmom,

What number did you call to get your EC#? I mailed my app, but if it doesn't come soon, I'd love to call and get my number.

 

[workinmom]

I called the # on the DC site - 800-603-0486. I was maybe a day over 2 weeks from the time I mailed in the application. Good luck

 

[briane]

Is it true that sometimes you can upgrade to a nice car like an SUV or a convertable with EC but other times all they have on the lot are Yugos and Dodge Darts?