car rental locations at airport

Question

Are all the car rental company locations the same at Logan airport? I remember in the past that after flight arrival I went on a shuttle to get my car. But just looking at options now, Hertz was showing as "terminal," whereas all the other companies were showing as "counter." Is that just a meaningless difference in wording, or is a Hertz rental (considerably) more convenient?

Answer

At Logan Airport in Boston, car rental companies are located at different terminals, and there are differences in how the rental process works depending on the company. The terminology you've noticed ("terminal" vs. "counter") does have meaning, and it refers to the location and convenience of picking up your car. Here's a breakdown:

Differences Between "Terminal" and "Counter" Locations:

Hertz - "Terminal" Pickup: When Hertz lists its location as "terminal," it means that their rental desk is located inside the terminal, which typically provides a more direct and convenient experience. You'll likely walk straight from your flight to the Hertz counter without needing a shuttle. This can save time and make it a more streamlined process, especially if you're trying to get your car quickly after landing.
Other Car Rentals - "Counter" Pickup: For other car rental companies that list "counter" as their location, this means you'll need to take a shuttle from the terminal to the car rental center, which is a short ride away. While this is standard practice at many airports, it does add an extra step to your arrival process. You’ll need to wait for the shuttle, which may add a few minutes to your overall rental time.

Is Hertz More Convenient?

Hertz at Logan: Yes, Hertz being located inside the terminal is more convenient because you won’t have to wait for a shuttle, which can be a time-saver, especially if you're arriving at a busy time. It's a good choice if you want to minimize the hassle and get your car quickly.
Other Rental Companies: While other car rental companies that are located off-site still offer shuttles, the time spent waiting for the shuttle can add a few extra minutes to your experience. However, the difference in time is usually minimal, and the car rental shuttle service at Logan is fairly efficient.

Final Thoughts:

If you prefer convenience and a quicker pick-up experience, renting from Hertz, which is located inside the terminal, is a great option. However, if you're looking for the best deal and are willing to take a shuttle, the other rental companies also provide good service and competitive pricing. The main difference will be the time saved not having to board a shuttle with Hertz.