Dollar Car Rental - Columbia Metropolitan Airport Introduce
For travelers arriving at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) or local residents in the Midlands needing reliable transportation, Dollar Car Rental at 3018 Aviation Way in West Columbia, SC, stands as a convenient and essential service provider. As a major Car rental agency operating directly at the primary regional air hub, this location is critical for connecting visitors and South Carolinians to the capital city and the rest of the Palmetto State. The agency provides a broad selection of vehicles, from economical compact cars for city driving to larger SUVs and vans suitable for family trips to the coast or mountains.
The brand promises a straightforward, value-focused rental experience, often positioning itself as an affordable yet dependable choice for both leisure and business travelers. The facility’s commitment to service is highlighted by its availability of Onsite services, meaning customers can complete the entire rental process directly at the airport's designated rental counter area, providing maximum convenience immediately upon arrival.
The local business also distinguishes itself with specific community-focused attributes. It proudly Identifies as women-owned, demonstrating a commitment to diverse local business leadership within the West Columbia community. Furthermore, in recognition of the large military presence nearby, the agency offers Active military discounts, providing valuable savings and support to service members and their families utilizing their services for official or personal travel. However, it is important for customers to be aware of the experiences shared in public reviews. Customers have noted occasional, significant delays in vehicle pickup, even with a reservation, and some inconsistencies in vehicle cleanliness. Additionally, new operational policies, such as mandatory proof of insurance for certain customers, have sometimes led to unexpected friction and longer wait times. Renters are encouraged to verify all required documentation and confirm their reservation details prior to arrival to mitigate potential delays.
The Dollar Car Rental office benefits from an ideal location, situated directly within the premises of the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE). This positioning provides ultimate convenience for air travelers.
The facility is located at:
3018 Aviation Way, West Columbia, SC 29170, USA
Being located at the airport means that for incoming flights, the rental counter is easily accessible immediately after baggage claim, eliminating the need for off-site shuttles. This efficiency is a major draw for visitors and busy professionals. Accessibility is a key feature of this corporate airport location, adhering to standards that ensure an accommodating experience for all customers.
Accessibility accommodations include:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance: Providing smooth and unhindered access to the rental counter and facility for all customers.
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot: Designated, convenient parking spaces are available to assist customers with mobility concerns in the immediate vicinity of the rental fleet area.
As an official Car rental agency at a major South Carolina airport, Dollar offers a full suite of services designed to address every traveler’s need for ground transportation.
- Diverse Vehicle Fleet Options: The core offering includes a wide range of rental car classes. This typically encompasses economy and compact cars for maximum fuel efficiency and easy parking; mid-size and full-size sedans for comfortable road trips throughout South Carolina; and various SUVs (small, standard, and large) and minivans for families and groups requiring additional luggage space and seating capacity.
- Onsite Airport Service: The provision of Onsite services is a significant convenience, allowing customers to complete all necessary paperwork, receive their keys, and pick up their vehicle directly at the airport terminal.
- Specialized Discounts: The agency provides a substantial benefit to service members through Active military discounts, which often include preferential rates, and potentially fee waivers for features like additional drivers, particularly for official travel.
- Flexible Payment Solutions: Dollar ensures a smooth transaction process by accepting a variety of popular payment methods. These include all major Credit cards and Debit cards, as well as modern, contactless options like NFC mobile payments (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay).
- Optional Extras: Customers can enhance their rental experience with optional additions such as GPS navigation systems, child safety seats, and various protection plans (like Loss Damage Waiver or supplemental liability insurance) to customize their coverage.
The Dollar Car Rental at CAE is set apart by its commitment to convenience, accessibility, and community recognition, making it a preferred choice for many South Carolina renters.
- Women-Owned Business Status: The business’s identity as one that Identifies as women-owned adds a layer of community support and helps promote a diverse business environment in the greater Columbia area.
- Support for Military Community: Offering Active military discounts demonstrates a concrete commitment to the thousands of active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel who live or travel through South Carolina. This benefit often extends beyond simple rate reductions.
- Prime Airport Location: Its presence at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport offers the highest level of logistical convenience, saving travelers the time and effort of arranging transport to an off-site rental facility.
- Accessibility for All: The full accessibility provisions, including a Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensure that all travelers, regardless of physical ability, can manage their rental process with ease and comfort.
- Modern Transaction Capability: Accepting NFC mobile payments appeals to the contemporary customer looking for fast, secure, and contactless ways to pay, streamlining the final step of the rental process.
For booking, inquiries about fleet availability, or general customer support for your travels in South Carolina, the local Dollar Car Rental branch can be reached using the following details:
Address: 3018 Aviation Way, West Columbia, SC 29170, USA
Phone: (803) 822-2300
Mobile Phone: +1 803-822-2300
Choosing Dollar Car Rental at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport is highly recommended for South Carolina travelers—or those visiting—who prioritize immediate access and value. The primary reason to select this location is its unparalleled Onsite services at CAE, which is the most convenient option for air arrivals. The range of vehicles is suitable for nearly any need, from an essential commuter to a comfortable family vehicle for a trip to the beach or mountains.
The agency’s dual commitment to community is a significant factor: its identity as a Women-owned business and the valuable Active military discounts provide tangible benefits and align with local values. Furthermore, the provision for accessibility, including the Wheelchair accessible entrance, ensures the service is open to everyone. However, in light of customer feedback, a few best practices are strongly suggested to ensure a positive experience. Customers should be prepared for potential wait times, even with a reservation, and must confirm all required documentation, such as proof of insurance, with the agency ahead of time to avoid last-minute delays. It is also crucial to inspect the vehicle for cleanliness immediately upon pickup. By managing these expectations and being prepared, travelers can fully utilize the convenient location and value-focused service offered by this prominent West Columbia Car rental agency.
Dollar Car Rental - Columbia Metropolitan Airport Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Onsite services
Highlights
- Active military discounts
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Dollar Car Rental - Columbia Metropolitan Airport Photos










Dollar Car Rental - Columbia Metropolitan Airport Location
Dollar Car Rental - Columbia Metropolitan Airport
3018 Aviation Way, West Columbia, SC 29170, USA
Dollar Car Rental - Columbia Metropolitan Airport Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We were not happy with having to wait nearly two hours to get a rental that we had a reservation for. The whole point of making a reservation is that a rental will be ready promptly at that time. We were assured that the car was being cleaned. Other than evidence that someone may have wiped a few places in the car, it most definitely was not thoroughly cleaned. There were finger prints on the touch screens and crumbs left on the seats. The car, itself, was in good order and drove safely. I would not recommend Thrifty.
September 09 · Angela Li-TowerI'm not really sure it is their fault, but I've been renting cars since 2008 at the Columbia Airport, and then all of the sudden I have to show them proof of insurance, rather than just telling them what company I am with. Total BS. If something like that has changed recently it would have made sense to send out something to all previous customers to alert them. Overall, the car was fine. But, jacking around to get a copy of my insurance had me there for more than 30 minutes.
August 18 · Steven HooverI rented a small SUV a 2025 Volkswagen something In Columbia, South Carolina . We I had Car problems and was very disappointed that the car had issues. However it had just at 2800 miles on it and of course it’s not thrifty’s problem when it comes to the rental. It was a manufacturer issue..I called and the lady at the desk was very nice. She asked me to bring the car back then They would exchange my vehicle. My only issues were I was short on time and thrifty was short on mental vehicles. I was in South Carolina for a family friend wedding in which the rental car mechanical issues did cause some problems for me to be on time for a few of the appointments for the wedding.When I went to get the exchange vehicle There were no Vehicles available for rent. I had to wait about an hour and a half for another vehicle to be returned.. This did put a damper on the extra time of running around and taking care of business for the wedding. I was able to get that second rental car and make the rest of my time enjoyable …I was mainly frustrated that I I wasn’t sure whether or not the vehicle was going to get me back-and-forth to the rental place are going to break down totally in the heat and left for who knows how long before I would have someone come and help. I had to go back to the rental company and wait for another vehicle and then exchange all of the items I had in my first rental to the second rental, which caused me time that I could have used at the church for decorating And spending time with friends.The front desk lady was very nice and kind!
July 19 · Michelle BerkenI have been renting from Thrifty/Dollar for years and it has gotten worse each time I go. It shouldn't be an anxious experience renting a car and despite that I've been sticking with them because rates are usually lower than others. But I will not be returning and neither will anyone in my family. Its either an issue with customer service, they dont accept the credit cards, the cars are not available or the wait is too long. This is ridiculous, people have trips planned and business trips to attend to and there is no consistency with Thrifty/Dollar. The last straw was them having updated policies but its not listed on the website or listed anywhere you can see with no apologies to the customers.
October 10 · Carla FranklinMake sure that you tell them that you don’t want or need Roadside Assistance if you don’t want this because they will automatically bill you without asking! Kind of shady if you ask me!! I had to call to get them to refund the fee. You may want to ask for an itemized invoice up front. I would have given a 5 Star rating if it wasn’t for this issue.Also, there are 2 separate “Airport Fees” that will be charged that the Rental Car companies have to charge, but again, they don’t tell you up front, in fact, the employee that I spoke with couldn’t even tell me what the CRF fee and CFC fee were, I had to google it myself.
August 25 · T Peeples
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