Protective parking structures on a consolidated rental car center (ConRAC) preserve vehicle inventory while maintaining a positive business reputation. Here are some further reasons why it is worth investing in shade structures for car rental facilities.
Hail typically ranges from the size of a dime to the size of a softball in major hail-prone areas — no matter the location, storms can be unpredictable. Larger hailstones can deliver the same impact to a vehicle as a sledgehammer. Smaller hail pellets can result in the following:
- Significant dents
- Chipped paint
- Broken glass
When cars sustain damage, rental facilities have to pour substantial funds into repairing or replacing their vehicles, and they may also lose business while waiting for an adjuster to examine the vehicles.
For car rental lots in areas where hail is a formidable weather concern, shield cars from damage with ConRAC parking structures from VPS. We design our unique steel and fabric systems to protect against hail, enabling facilities to get the most revenue for their rental cars while avoiding expensive repair costs and increased insurance premiums.
Car rental facility shade structures offer defense against the sun’s rays, even on the brightest and hottest days. Extended sun exposure can oxidize, fade and peel automobile paint, making cars look worn and damaged before their time. Our parking protection structures block harmful UV rays while also protecting car rental inventory from hail.
An added benefit of hail protection for rental car facilities is keeping vehicles cool throughout the day. Even a short 20-minute stint in the sun on an 80-degree Fahrenheit day results in an interior vehicle temperature of 109 degrees. When automobiles are sheltered from the sun, customers can test drive their rental vehicle off the lot without getting into a sweltering, uncomfortable car.
Car parking structures can also add visual appeal to a car rental lot, boosting the property value. Commercial hail protection from VPS comes in a variety of styles, designs, and colors, offering a sleek look that exudes quality and professionalism.
Our ConRAC parking structures also allow businesses to implement electrical upgrades such as lighting elements, surveillance, and more, further enhancing their products.
Leading to Cost Savings for Customers
When customers hop in a hot rental car, their first instinct is to crank up the air conditioning. However, using the AC can reduce fuel economy and cause the car to burn more fuel more quickly. While drivers are likely used to having to replace the fuel they use, it’s important for companies to make every effort to provide value for customers.

Keeping cars under shade structures decreases the overall temperature of the car and reduces a driver’s reliance on AC systems, ultimately resulting in lower fuel bills.
Improving the Customer Experience
When customers collect or return their rental cars, they often need to wait for an employee to inspect the vehicle. Providing a shaded area for customers to sit during inspections protects them from UV rays.
Additionally, shade structures extend waiting areas for greater customer comfort. Peak travel times — such as Thanksgiving and Christmas — lead to an influx of people renting cars. Providing a larger, covered waiting area enables everyone to sit in their own space while they wait for assistance. Taking the time to improve the overall customer experience will lead to better reviews and repeat business.