View Full Version : Alamo Skip the Counter
Anybody used this Skip the Counter service from Alamo? I have registered all my details and CC, so should be able to go straight to the rental car. Has anybody used this service, and is it really that easy?
Yes, it's that easy. Just go straight over to the parking lot and pick the car in the category you have booked. When you completed the online check-in you should have a confirmation that says you can skip the counter, which I'd recommend you print and take with you.
Anybody used this Skip the Counter service from Alamo? I have registered all my details and CC, so should be able to go straight to the rental car. Has anybody used this service, and is it really that easy?
lissybubs
09-09-2017, 16:12
Yes, it's that easy. Just go straight over to the parking lot and pick the car in the category you have booked. When you completed the online check-in you should have a confirmation that says you can skip the counter, which I'd recommend you print and take with you.
This year we flew into Tampa airport and despite the following:- 1) everything completed upfront, online, in advance with Alamo 2) Tampa airport being on the 'skip the queue' official Alamo listing 3) Tampa airport being as quiet as a mouse - we still were not allowed to go straight to pick up a car. They said it was because we had booked via a 3rd party (ie. OV car hire) and they needed to double check everything. I didn't fancy an argument but for next time, what should/can we do Roger?
After you checked-in online, did the confirmation specifically say something like 'Go straight to the parking lot'?
If not, then you cannot. If it did then they should have let you.
This year we flew into Tampa airport and despite the following:- 1) everything completed upfront, online, in advance with Alamo 2) Tampa airport being on the 'skip the queue' official Alamo listing 3) Tampa airport being as quiet as a mouse - we still were not allowed to go straight to pick up a car. They said it was because we had booked via a 3rd party (ie. OV car hire) and they needed to double check everything. I didn't fancy an argument but for next time, what should/can we do Roger?
lissybubs
14-09-2017, 14:41
After you checked-in online, did the confirmation specifically say something like 'Go straight to the parking lot'?
If not, then you cannot. If it did then they should have let you.
Hi Roger, don't remember having those exact words on our confirmation but on their home page they state the following:-
When you "Skip the Counter," you don't need to visit the counter or kiosk. You can go straight to your car!
This optional service is offered free of charge at select locations in the Online Check-In process. Check if your location qualifies for "Skip the Counter." Tampa, FL Tampa International (TPA) is one of those listed
florida4sun
14-09-2017, 15:17
That statement is just the explanation of the service, doesn't mean you have it. You need the confirmation that states you can actually go straight to the car. You only get this when sign up separately for it.;
Hi Roger, don't remember having those exact words on our confirmation but on their home page they state the following:-
When you "Skip the Counter," you don't need to visit the counter or kiosk. You can go straight to your car!
This optional service is offered free of charge at select locations in the Online Check-In process. Check if your location qualifies for "Skip the Counter." Tampa, FL Tampa International (TPA) is one of those listed
Markerhouse
13-10-2017, 18:38
I have just gone through the online check-in with Alamo at Tampa and there is no mention on the paperwork of 'skip the counter' so wonder why it is a on the list of airports.
It is a very tricky check in form anyway as some of the dates are in the American style and some in the British style.
florida4sun
13-10-2017, 19:39
I did 2 rentals in the last week and it was the first time I have used the online check in. To be honest I thought it was very simple and quick - the date format is pointed out (MM DD or DD MM). I picked up at Disney and MCO, just went straight to the car and that was it. Real bonus avoiding the queue. When you check in online you will end up with a sheet to print out that contains the rental info and a long bar rental the top. Be aware that the sheet disappears after you close it down. So if you have not printed it you will need to register again (as I did the first time around). So be prepared to print before opening the document.
I have just gone through the online check-in with Alamo at Tampa and there is no mention on the paperwork of 'skip the counter' so wonder why it is a on the list of airports.
It is a very tricky check in form anyway as some of the dates are in the American style and some in the British style.
Markerhouse
13-10-2017, 19:47
I have printed out the three pages of the check-in and there is no barcode to be seen.
florida4sun
13-10-2017, 19:55
Maybe it is due to a different location. I got the option to print or email the doc for print. I went for the email option. In that was a link that opened up a single page document. If I still have it ill post a pic. Noone scanned the barcode. I just jumped in the vehicle and had my paperwork check at the exit gate.
I have printed out the three pages of the check-in and there is no barcode to be seen.
Markerhouse
14-10-2017, 15:36
Have tackled Alamo on the 'straight to garage' situation at Tampa and their response is:-
I fully understand wanting to make sure everything is in order for your booking prior to arrival. You are able to use the self service kiosks at the Tampa airport, however the booking was prepaid and this negates the ability to go straight to the rental car facility as mentioned in the Skip the Counter requirements.
Quite what pre-payment has to do with the situation I have no idea.
No Shoes
15-10-2017, 11:55
I am flying into Tampa on Tuesday and have the long bar code on the top of my check in documents (as I always have had in the past). Three times last winter they did not allow straight to garage. I was told then it was to prevent a long queue at the barrier. Despite there being only a couple of people in the garage.
To be honest it was more the 'way' we were spoken to that I objected to, than the actual having to go to the counter, so they can try to sell you something you don't want/need!
Markerhouse
15-10-2017, 16:01
It's all a mystery to me; I'll use the machines, have never been able to do that before as my reservations have always been over the 30 day limit; this time it is less than 30 days - so machines it will be; I can't be doing with the hassle at the counter.
sunseeker
16-11-2017, 15:30
In May I checked in on line at home, once landed in Tampa I went straight into the garage picked a car and everything got sorted at the barrier.
Dave