Rental Car Facility (CONRAC)

- 3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719

For travelers arriving in the Lone Star State through Austin, securing a rental car is often the first step to exploring the vast and vibrant Texas landscape. The state's sheer size and its endless array of destinations—from the bustling city centers to the tranquil Hill Country—make having your own vehicle not just a convenience, but a necessity. At the heart of this travel convenience in Austin is the Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC), a state-of-the-art hub designed to streamline the car rental process and enhance the overall customer experience. This article provides a detailed guide to the CONRAC, offering insights for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS).

The concept behind the CONRAC is simple yet revolutionary: to bring all major rental car companies under one roof. This modern facility eliminates the need for multiple, scattered company lots and the confusion of waiting for different shuttles. Instead, travelers can walk directly from the airport terminal to a single, centralized location to pick up or return their vehicle. It’s a solution born from the need for efficiency, reduced traffic congestion around the airport, and a commitment to providing a seamless experience for every customer.

This facility serves as a gateway to the rest of Texas. Whether you are in town for a music festival, a business conference, or a classic Texas road trip, the CONRAC provides the perfect starting point. Its design and operations reflect a deep understanding of what modern travelers need—convenience, speed, and a wide array of options. It is not just a parking garage; it is a meticulously planned transportation center that supports both the customer-facing aspects of car rental and the complex logistics that happen behind the scenes.

The friendly and professional staff at the various car rental counters are well-versed in assisting customers, from clarifying rental policies to offering advice on the best vehicle for your Texas journey. While one customer noted that a desk attendant could have been more knowledgeable, the general consensus, as reflected in many positive reviews, is that the pick-up and drop-off processes are "fairly smooth" and "excellent." This focus on efficiency and positive service is a key part of the facility's mission.

The CONRAC is strategically located on the grounds of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), making it incredibly easy to access. You do not have to worry about long, complicated shuttle routes or navigating off-site locations. The facility is directly connected to the main airport terminal by a covered walkway, ensuring that you can get to your rental car quickly and comfortably, regardless of the weather.

The address is 3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719, USA. This prime location means that you are just a short walk away from the baggage claim area, allowing for a swift transition from your flight to your rental vehicle. The design of the facility includes well-marked signage, making it easy for customers to find their way to the customer service counters and then to the ready/return stalls where the cars are parked. The convenience of this direct link is a significant advantage, reducing travel stress and saving valuable time.

For those returning their vehicles, the process is equally straightforward. Drivers can follow the clear signage for "Rental Car Return" on Presidential Boulevard, which leads them directly into the CONRAC. The well-organized structure and designated return lanes make it simple to find the correct spot for your specific rental company, streamlining the end of your trip.

The Consolidated Rental Car Facility is not just about a single location; it’s about providing a full suite of services through multiple, trusted brands. The facility houses more than a dozen different car rental companies, ensuring a wide range of choices for every budget and need.

• Vehicle Pick-Up and Drop-Off: A centralized, multi-level garage where customers can easily pick up their pre-booked vehicles and return them at the end of their rental period.

• Customer Service Counters: Each rental car company has its own dedicated counter and office space within the customer service building, allowing for personal assistance and streamlined check-in processes.

• Quick Turn Around (QTA) Facilities: The facility includes a high-efficiency area for vehicle preparation. This is where returned cars are cleaned, fueled, and undergo light maintenance before being prepped for the next customer.

• Multi-Level Ready/Return Garage: Designed to hold a large volume of vehicles, this garage ensures that a wide variety of cars are always available and easily accessible to customers.

The CONRAC was built with both customer convenience and operational efficiency in mind. Its thoughtful design includes several features that set it apart from traditional car rental setups.

• Consolidated Operations: By bringing all rental car companies into one building, the CONRAC dramatically reduces traffic congestion on airport roadways. Instead of individual company shuttles, a single system of moving walkways connects the terminal to the facility, reducing emissions and improving the overall flow of traffic.

• Expansive Capacity: The facility is a massive 1.6-million-square-foot structure with the capacity to hold thousands of rental vehicles at any given time, ensuring a plentiful supply for travelers even during peak seasons.

• Enhanced Public Parking: The construction of the CONRAC freed up approximately 900 public parking spaces that were previously occupied by rental cars on the top level of the original airport garage. This is a significant benefit to all airport visitors.

• Sustainable Design: The facility was built with sustainability in mind, aiming to meet U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver criteria. By centralizing operations, it reduces fuel consumption and is estimated to cut carbon dioxide emissions by hundreds of tons per year.

• Customer-Centric Design: The layout is designed to minimize walking distances for customers. Vertical cores with elevators and escalators are strategically placed to provide easy access from the customer service area to the vehicle stalls.

For direct inquiries or to find your rental company, you can visit the facility in person at the following location.

Address: 3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719, USA

Please note that phone numbers and specific counter hours may vary by individual rental company. It is best to contact your chosen rental provider directly for reservation-specific questions.

When it comes to renting a car in the Austin area, the Rental Car Facility (CONRAC) stands out for several compelling reasons that directly benefit the user. First and foremost is the unmatched convenience. The seamless, weather-protected connection from the airport terminal to the facility means you can get on the road faster, without the hassle of waiting for shuttle buses that may be infrequent or crowded. This is a huge time-saver for anyone on a tight schedule.

The facility's design is also a major plus. The consolidation of multiple rental companies under one roof means you have a vast selection of vehicles at your fingertips. You can easily compare rates and vehicle types without leaving the building, giving you the power to make an informed decision on the spot. The ample space and logical layout of the ready/return garage ensures that finding your car is a straightforward process, not a frustrating scavenger hunt.

Furthermore, the CONRAC’s commitment to operational efficiency contributes to a better customer experience. The behind-the-scenes quick turn around (QTA) areas mean that vehicles are serviced and ready for the next customer promptly, leading to a smoother and faster transaction. As one customer noted, the experience for Hertz at the Austin Airport was an "excellent pick up and drop off," which is a testament to the facility's well-oiled machine.

In an era where travel can be unpredictable, choosing a facility that is built for reliability and customer service is paramount. The Austin CONRAC provides just that—a dependable, efficient, and user-friendly starting point for all your Texas adventures. Whether you are a local needing a temporary vehicle or a visitor ready to explore the vast state, this facility is designed to meet your needs with professionalism and ease.

Rental Car Facility (CONRAC)

3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719, USA