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To reach the official website please visit gru.com.br

Car Rental at Guarulhos Airport (GRU)

If you plan to explore São Paulo on your own, renting a vehicle at the airport can be an excellent option. However, the experience at GRU can be frustrating if you are unaware of delay policies and hidden cleaning fees reported by travelers. This guide will help you navigate the main agencies operating 24 hours a day so your trip starts without setbacks.

Book a Vehicle

FAQs about Car Rental at GRU

  • Where are the agencies located?
    In the arrivals or departure halls of all terminals. Most offer a shuttle (free van) to take you to the lot where the cars are parked.
  • Do I need a physical credit card?
    Yes. It is mandatory to present a physical credit card in the main driver’s name with sufficient funds for the security deposit. Virtual cards are usually rejected.
  • What is “Rodízio” and how does it affect me?
    It is a vehicle restriction in São Paulo based on the license plate number. If your rental car has a restriction on the day you drive, you could receive a fine as soon as you leave the airport.
  • What happens if my flight is delayed?
    Beware: some companies like Unidas cancel your reservation if you arrive more than 2 hours late, even if you provided your flight number.

Critical Points: Smart Traveler Manual

Abusive cleaning fees

Charges of up to USD 150 have been reported for “special cleaning” if the car has a little sand or minimal dirt on the mats.

Strategy: Before returning the car, if you have been to the beach or rural areas, give it a quick clean at an external gas station. You will save on disproportionate charges.

The “full” tank trap

Many users receive vehicles with the tank at 3/8 or 7/8 capacity, even if the contract states it is full.

Strategy: Take a photo of the fuel gauge and mileage before leaving the lot. If there are discrepancies, show them to the employee immediately or upon return to demand a refund.

Rodízio Restriction

Rental companies do not always assign you a car that can drive freely on the day of your arrival.

Strategy: Ask specifically at the counter if the car’s license plate has a “Rodízio” restriction that day. If so, demand a vehicle change to avoid fines in the city.

Counter locations and online booking

All companies operate 24/7 and have a presence in the terminals:

Which rental company to choose? Experience analysis

🚗 Localiza

🗣️ User Experience: It is the favorite due to its modern fleet, but lines at the counter can exceed an hour wait.

Strategy: Use the Digital Pick-up via their app. It allows you to go straight to the car and unlock it with your phone, totally avoiding the physical counter.

🚙 Movida

🗣️ User Experience: Offers competitive prices, but travelers warn about inconsistencies in staff information regarding third-party card usage.

Strategy: If the driver is under 21, double-check approval before arriving, as this is a frequent reason for rejection at the counter.

🚘 Unidas

🗣️ User Experience: Rated as the most inflexible. Many international travelers have felt “scammed” by reservation cancellations after flight delays of only 2 hours.

Strategy: If your flight is delayed, call immediately. If you are a Brazilian living abroad, make sure to bring your physical or digital CPF, as it is a blocking requirement.

🚗 Turbi (100% digital)

🗣️ User Experience: Although they promise agility, recent reports mention lack of maintenance (strong odors, dirt) and slow tech support for app failures.

Strategy: Perform all document validation days before your trip. Do not wait to land to set up the app.

Final recommendations for renting at GRU

  • ✅ Book in advance to guarantee availability and better prices.
  • ✅ Documentation: Always carry your original driver’s license, passport, and physical credit card.
  • ⚠️ Visual record: Record a video of the car’s exterior and interior upon receipt to avoid disputes over pre-existing damage.
  • ⛽ Fuel: Return it with a full tank and keep the receipt from the gas station closest to the airport.

Have you chosen your company? Book your car online in advance and save time upon arrival at the airport.