Car rental agencies play a crucial role in the transportation industry, providing individuals and businesses with convenient access to vehicles for various purposes. With numerous options available, it can be overwhelming for customers to navigate through the multitude of choices and find the most suitable car rental agency for their needs. This is where the National Auto Directory comes into play – an extensive database that compiles essential information about different car rental agencies across the country.
For instance, imagine Sarah, a recent college graduate who has just landed her dream job in a bustling city far away from home. She is excited about starting this new chapter but faces the challenge of finding reliable transportation to commute to work daily. Unsure of which car rental agency would offer her the best rates and services, she turns to the National Auto Directory for assistance. The directory serves as a comprehensive resource that allows Sarah to compare various agencies based on factors such as location, pricing, vehicle availability, customer reviews, and additional offerings like roadside assistance or GPS navigation systems. By utilizing this valuable tool, Sarah gains confidence in making an informed decision regarding her choice of car rental agency.
In conclusion, as the demand for flexible mobility solutions continues to grow rapidly, having access to accurate and detailed information becomes increasingly important when selecting a car rental agency.
Insurance options
Car rental agencies offer a variety of insurance options to ensure the safety and protection of both the vehicle and the renter. These options provide peace of mind, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise during the rental period. For instance, imagine you are renting a car for a weekend trip with your family, and unfortunately, you get into an accident due to slippery road conditions. In such cases, having adequate insurance coverage can alleviate financial burdens and minimize stress.
One common insurance option provided by car rental agencies is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). This type of insurance protects renters from being held responsible for any damage that may occur to the rented vehicle in case of accidents or collisions. By purchasing CDW/LDW coverage, renters can avoid paying out-of-pocket expenses for repairs or even replacement costs if necessary.
Additionally, Supplementary Liability Insurance (SLI) is often offered by car rental agencies. SLI provides liability coverage beyond the basic limits required by law. This means that if you were involved in an accident where damages exceed the standard liability limit, this additional coverage would help protect you against potentially significant financial obligations.
Moreover, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is another option available through many car rental agencies. PAI covers medical expenses resulting from injuries sustained during a car accident while driving the rented vehicle. It offers added reassurance for individuals concerned about unexpected medical costs that might be incurred following an unfortunate incident on their journey.
To summarize these insurance options succinctly:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)/Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Protects against damage to the rented vehicle.
- Supplementary Liability Insurance (SLI): Provides extra liability coverage in case of accidents.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses resulting from injuries sustained during an accident.
In considering which insurance options to choose, it is essential to carefully evaluate personal needs and preferences as well as the potential risks associated with renting a vehicle. By understanding and selecting appropriate insurance coverage, renters can ensure a worry-free experience during their journey.
Moving forward to the next section about “Discounts and deals,” it is worth exploring how car rental agencies offer attractive incentives that can further enhance your rental experience.
Discounts and deals
Insurance Options
In the previous section, we discussed the different car rental agencies available in the National Auto Directory. Now let’s move on to a crucial aspect when renting a car – insurance options. To illustrate this further, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario:
Imagine you have rented a car for your weekend trip. Unfortunately, while driving through unfamiliar terrain, you accidentally hit a deer and damage the vehicle. In such situations, having suitable insurance coverage can provide peace of mind and save you from significant financial burdens.
When it comes to insuring your rental car, there are several options available to choose from. Let’s explore some common types below:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This option covers damages caused due to collision or accidents involving the rental vehicle.
- Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): SLI provides additional liability coverage beyond the minimum required by law, protecting you if someone else is injured or their property is damaged as a result of an accident involving the rental car.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): PAI offers medical coverage for injuries sustained by the driver and passengers in case of an accident during the rental period.
- Roadside Assistance Coverage: This type of insurance ensures that you receive prompt assistance if your rental car breaks down or requires towing.
To give you a better understanding of these insurance options, here is a table summarizing their key features:
| Insurance Option | Coverage Provided | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Collision Damage Waiver | Damages resulting from collisions | Varies based on agency |
| Supplemental Liability Insurance | Additional liability protection | Varies based on agency |
| Personal Accident Insurance | Medical coverage for injuries | Varies based on agency |
| Roadside Assistance Coverage | Towing and breakdown assistance | Varies based on agency |
Understanding the insurance options available is essential when renting a car, as it allows you to make an informed decision based on your needs and budget. By carefully considering the potential risks involved during your rental period, you can select the appropriate coverage that provides adequate protection.
In our next section, we will explore various Discounts and deals offered by car rental agencies to help you save money while enjoying your rental experience. So let’s delve into how you can avail these opportunities without incurring excessive fees and surcharges.
Fees and surcharges
Section H2: Fees and Surcharges
Imagine you have just found a great deal on car rental at your dream destination. You are excited to book it, but before you do, it is important to consider the fees and surcharges that may be associated with your rental. Understanding these additional costs will help you plan your budget effectively and avoid any surprises upon arrival.
Firstly, let’s take a look at some common fees and surcharges that car rental agencies may impose:
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Airport Surcharge: Many car rental companies charge an additional fee for rentals picked up or dropped off at airport locations. This surcharge is often justified by the higher operating costs faced by agencies located within airport premises.
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Additional Driver Fee: If more than one person intends to drive the rented vehicle, some agencies require an extra fee for each additional driver listed on the contract. It is essential to check this policy beforehand if you plan on sharing driving responsibilities during your trip.
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Fuel Charges: Car rental companies usually provide customers with two options when it comes to fuel – pre-purchase a full tank of gas or return the vehicle with a full tank. Failure to return the car with a full tank can result in refueling charges being added to your bill, which could potentially be higher than local gas station prices.
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Late Return Penalty: Returning the rental vehicle later than agreed upon can lead to late return penalties imposed by the agency. These penalties are typically calculated per hour or per day of delay and can significantly increase your overall cost if not adhered to.
Consider this hypothetical scenario: You rent a car from XYZ Rentals for five days at $50 per day, expecting no additional expenses beyond this rate. However, after returning the vehicle four hours past the agreed-upon time, you find yourself facing a hefty late return penalty of $25 per hour – doubling what you initially anticipated paying solely for renting the car.
| Fees/Surcharges | Description |
|---|---|
| Airport Surcharge | Extra fee for airport pick-up/drop-off locations. |
| Additional Driver Fee | Charge for each additional driver listed on the contract. |
| Fuel Charges | Cost associated with refueling if car is not returned with a full tank. |
| Late Return Penalty | Penalties imposed for returning the vehicle later than agreed upon time. |
Being aware of these fees and surcharges helps you plan your rental experience more effectively, saving you from any unexpected financial burdens during or after your trip. In our subsequent section about “Available vehicles,” we will explore the wide range of vehicles offered by car rental agencies to suit different needs and preferences.
Available vehicles
Section H2: Fees and Surcharges
In the previous section, we explored the various fees and surcharges that may be associated with renting a car from a rental agency. Now, let’s delve into the wide range of vehicles available for rental.
Imagine you are planning a road trip across the country and need a reliable vehicle to accommodate your family and luggage. National Auto Directory offers an extensive fleet of vehicles to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you require a compact car for city driving or a spacious SUV for off-road adventures, there is something for everyone.
When considering which type of vehicle to choose, it is important to take into account factors such as size, fuel efficiency, and features. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key points to consider:
- Size: Depending on the number of passengers and amount of luggage, you can select from compact cars, sedans, minivans, or SUVs.
- Fuel Efficiency: If long distances will be covered during your journey, opting for a fuel-efficient vehicle can help minimize costs.
- Features: Consider additional features like GPS navigation systems or entertainment options to enhance your travel experience.
- Safety Ratings: Prioritize safety by looking at crash test ratings and advanced safety features offered by different models.
To further assist in selecting the right vehicle for your needs, please refer to the table below which provides an overview of featured vehicles along with their respective specifications:
| Vehicle Model | Passenger Capacity | Luggage Capacity | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Car | 4 | Small | High |
| Sedan | 5 | Medium | Moderate |
| Minivan | 7 | Large | Low |
| SUV | 5-8 | Large | Varies |
As you can see above, each vehicle category has its own advantages and limitations. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a vehicle that best suits your travel requirements.
So let’s move on to explore how easy it is to secure the ideal rental vehicle for your journey.
Reserving a car
Section: Choosing the Right Vehicle
In the previous section, we explored the availability of vehicles at car rental agencies. Now let’s discuss how to choose the right vehicle that suits your needs and preferences. To illustrate this process, consider a hypothetical scenario where you are planning a family road trip across multiple states.
Firstly, it is important to assess the specific requirements for your journey. Consider factors such as the number of passengers, amount of luggage, and any special equipment or features you may need during your trip. For instance, in our hypothetical case study, if you have a large family with five members and plan on carrying camping gear, you would require a spacious vehicle with ample storage capacity.
Once you have identified your requirements, it’s time to explore the options available to you. Here are some key considerations when choosing a suitable vehicle:
- Size and seating capacity: Determine whether a sedan, SUV, minivan, or other type of vehicle will comfortably accommodate all passengers.
- Fuel efficiency: Evaluate different models based on their fuel consumption rates to minimize costs during long journeys.
- Safety features: Prioritize vehicles equipped with advanced safety systems like anti-lock brakes (ABS), airbags, rear-view cameras, etc.
- Additional amenities: Assess optional features such as GPS navigation systems or entertainment packages that can enhance your travel experience.
To further assist you in making an informed decision about renting the right car for your trip, please refer to the following table comparing various popular models’ specifications:
| Model | Seating Capacity | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan A | 5 | 30 | ABS, front and side airbags |
| SUV B | 7 | 25 | Rear-view camera, blind-spot monitoring |
| Minivan C | 8 | 20 | Forward collision warning, lane departure assistance |
| Crossover D | 5 | 28 | Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors |
By considering your specific requirements and comparing the features of different vehicle models, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. This will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey for you and your fellow travelers.
Moving forward to the next section about Customer feedback, it is important to consider the experiences of previous renters in order to gain insights into the quality of service provided by car rental agencies.
Customer feedback
Reserving a car can be a convenient way to ensure you have reliable transportation during your travels. Let’s explore some important considerations when reserving a car from various rental agencies.
One example that highlights the significance of making an informed decision is Sarah’s experience with two different car rental agencies. Sarah, a frequent traveler, reserved a compact car for her business trip through Agency A and another one through Agency B. While both agencies claimed to offer similar services, there were noticeable differences in their overall customer satisfaction ratings.
When comparing different rental agencies, it is crucial to consider the following factors:
- Pricing: Evaluate the pricing structure offered by each agency to ensure transparency and affordability.
- Vehicle availability: Check if the agency has a wide range of vehicle options available at your desired location.
- Reservation Policies: Understand the terms and conditions regarding cancellations, modifications, or no-shows.
- Customer service: Assess the quality of customer service provided by reading reviews or checking ratings.
To further illustrate this point, let’s compare four popular national car rental agencies based on these factors:
| Agency | Pricing | Vehicle Availability | Reservation Policies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agency A | Affordable | Limited options | Flexible |
| Agency B | Expensive | Wide variety | Strict |
| Agency C | Moderate | Average selection | Moderate |
| Agency D | Budget-friendly | Extensive choices | Lenient |
As seen in the table above, each agency has its own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to pricing, vehicle availability, and reservation policies. By carefully examining these aspects before making a reservation, you can choose an agency that aligns better with your needs.
In considering all these factors and conducting thorough research prior to reserving a car from any particular agency, you can make an educated decision that ensures a positive rental experience. In the subsequent section, we will delve into coverage choices and how they can impact your car rental process.
Coverage Choices: Understanding Your Options
Coverage choices
Coverage Choices
In the realm of car rental agencies, one crucial aspect that customers consider is the range of coverage choices offered. Let’s delve into this essential factor and explore its significance in ensuring a positive experience for renters.
To illustrate the importance of coverage choices, let us consider a hypothetical scenario involving two individuals renting cars from different agencies. Both renters have opted for basic insurance coverage but encounter unforeseen circumstances during their rental period. Renter A finds themselves involved in a minor accident, causing damage to the rented vehicle. Meanwhile, Renter B accidentally locks the keys inside their rental car while exploring a tourist attraction.
The contrasting outcomes experienced by Renters A and B can be attributed to the variety and comprehensiveness of coverage options provided by each respective agency. While both incidents were unplanned and unexpected, Renter A benefits from additional coverage that includes collision damage waiver (CDW) protection, resulting in minimal out-of-pocket expenses for repairs. On the other hand, Renter B faces an inconvenience due to inadequate roadside assistance included in their chosen plan.
When choosing a car rental agency, it is imperative to carefully examine the coverage choices available. Consider these key factors:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This option provides financial protection against damages incurred as a result of accidents or collisions.
- Roadside Assistance: Having reliable emergency services like 24/7 towing or lockout assistance can offer peace of mind during travels.
- Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): LDW covers theft or vandalism-related damages to your rented vehicle.
- Personal Accident Insurance: In case of bodily injury during an accident with your rental car, this coverage ensures medical expenses are taken care of.
| Coverage Choice | Description |
|---|---|
| Collision Damage Waiver | Protects against repair costs following accidents or collisions. |
| Roadside Assistance | Provides emergency services such as towing or lockout assistance. |
| Loss Damage Waiver | Covers theft or vandalism-related damages to the rented vehicle. |
| Personal Accident Insurance | Ensures medical expenses are covered in case of bodily injury during an accident with the rental car. |
Ultimately, making informed decisions about coverage choices can significantly impact your overall renting experience. By selecting appropriate coverage options that align with personal needs and preferences, you can mitigate potential risks and enjoy a worry-free journey.
Transitioning into the subsequent section on “Promotional Offers,” it is essential to note that car rental agencies often present various enticing deals to attract customers while ensuring they have comprehensive coverage options available.
Promotional offers
Transitioning from the previous section on coverage choices, let us now delve deeper into the various options provided by car rental agencies. To illustrate this, consider a hypothetical scenario where an individual named Alex is planning a road trip across different states in the United States.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that car rental agencies offer different types of coverage for their vehicles. These options generally fall under three broad categories: basic insurance coverage, additional liability protection, and collision damage waivers (CDW). Basic insurance coverage typically includes limited liability insurance up to a certain amount, while additional liability protection offers increased coverage limits beyond the basic level. CDWs are designed to provide financial safeguards against any potential damages or theft of the rented vehicle.
- Peace of mind knowing you have adequate insurance protection.
- Protection against unexpected accidents or damages during your journey.
- Avoidance of potentially high out-of-pocket expenses in case of mishaps.
- Enhanced safety and security while driving unfamiliar roads.
Additionally, here is a 3-column x 4-row table providing a comparison between the three main coverage options:
| Coverage Options | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Insurance Coverage | Low-cost option | Limited liability coverage |
| Additional Liability Protection | Increased coverage limits | Additional cost |
| Collision Damage Waivers | Financial safeguard against damages/theft | Can be expensive if not included in base rate |
In conclusion, understanding and choosing appropriate coverage when renting a car is crucial for ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. By evaluating personal needs and preferences alongside available options such as basic insurance coverage, additional liability protection, and collision damage waivers, individuals like Alex can make informed decisions to mitigate potential risks and enjoy a hassle-free road trip.
Transitioning into the next section about “Extra costs,” it is important to consider other factors that may impact overall expenses.
Extra costs
Section H2: Extra costs
Transitioning from the previous section on promotional offers, it is important for customers to be aware of any additional expenses they may incur when renting a car. Understanding the extra costs associated with renting a vehicle can help individuals make informed decisions and avoid unexpected charges.
To illustrate this point, let’s consider the case of John, who rented a car for his weekend getaway. Although he had initially paid attention to the base rental price advertised by the agency, he soon discovered that there were several other fees that needed to be factored into his budget.
Firstly, many car rental agencies impose surcharges for drivers under a certain age or with less driving experience. These additional fees are often referred to as “young driver” or “inexperienced driver” surcharges and can significantly increase the overall cost of renting a car. In John’s case, being under 25 years old meant he incurred an extra fee of $30 per day.
Secondly, some rental companies offer optional insurance coverage in addition to their basic offering. While purchasing additional insurance may provide peace of mind during the rental period, it also comes at an added expense. For instance, John opted for comprehensive coverage which cost him an additional $15 per day.
Moreover, fuel policy is another aspect that should not be overlooked. Car rental agencies typically require renters to return the vehicle with either a full tank or pay for refueling services upon return. In John’s situation, failing to refill the gas tank before returning the car resulted in an unexpected charge of $40.
These examples highlight just a few potential extra costs that customers should consider when renting a car. To further emphasize their significance and impact on pricing transparency, here is a bullet list summarizing these points:
- Young driver or inexperienced driver surcharges
- Optional insurance coverage
- Fuel policy and refueling charges
In addition to understanding these common extra costs associated with renting a car, it is important for customers to be aware of any other fees or charges that may vary between rental agencies. To provide a comprehensive overview, the following table illustrates potential additional costs and their ranges:
| Extra Cost | Range |
|---|---|
| Additional driver fee | $10 – $25 per day |
| GPS rental | $10 – $15 per day |
| Toll transponder | $2 – $5 per day |
| Airport surcharge | $15 – $30 |
By being well-informed about these extra expenses, individuals can better plan their budget and avoid unpleasant surprises during the car rental process.
Transitioning into the subsequent section on car availability, it is essential to consider how the presence of these extra costs may affect the overall convenience and affordability of renting a vehicle.
Car availability
Section H2: Car Availability
In the quest to rent a car, one of the key factors that renters consider is the availability of vehicles. A seamless rental experience hinges on having a wide range of options to choose from, ensuring that customers can find a vehicle that suits their needs and preferences. To illustrate this point, let us explore a hypothetical scenario where John is planning a family vacation and needs to rent an SUV for his trip.
Firstly, it is important to note that car rental agencies strive to maintain a diverse fleet of vehicles to cater to varying customer demands. This ensures that individuals like John have access to different types of cars such as sedans, SUVs, minivans, or even luxury vehicles. By offering these choices, agencies accommodate various travel requirements, whether it be accommodating larger groups or providing comfortable transportation for long journeys.
Secondly, in order to gauge the availability of cars at any given time, most car rental agencies implement efficient reservation systems. These systems allow potential renters like John to check for vehicle availability on specific dates and times before making their booking. Additionally, some agencies provide real-time updates on vehicle availability through their online platforms or mobile applications, enhancing convenience by saving time and effort in physically visiting multiple branches.
To further emphasize the importance of car availability in the renting process and evoke an emotional response from readers:
- Having limited vehicle options may lead to frustration and inconvenience when trying to secure a suitable car.
- Not being able to find an available vehicle during peak travel seasons could result in disappointment and potentially ruin travel plans.
- The ability to reserve specific models or features (e.g., GPS navigation) can enhance the overall travel experience.
- Flexibility in choosing pickup locations allows customers greater convenience when accessing rented vehicles.
The following table illustrates how different car rental agencies prioritize vehicle availability based on customer satisfaction surveys:
| Agency | Vehicle Availability Rating |
|---|---|
| National Auto Directory | 4.5 out of 5 |
| Reliable Rentals | 3.8 out of 5 |
| EasyDrive Car Hire | 4.2 out of 5 |
| QuickRent Auto Services | 3.6 out of 5 |
In summary, car availability plays a significant role in the rental experience as it ensures that customers have access to a variety of vehicles to suit their needs and preferences. By implementing reservation systems and providing real-time updates on vehicle availability, car rental agencies strive to enhance convenience for renters like John. The next section will delve into the process of making a reservation, exploring the steps involved in securing a rented vehicle.
Understanding the importance of car availability provides valuable insights when making a reservation with your preferred car rental agency
Making a reservation
Car Availability
Imagine you are planning a trip to a bustling city and need a reliable mode of transportation. You decide to rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies available in the area. Understanding the availability of cars at these agencies is crucial for making an informed decision about renting a vehicle that suits your needs.
When it comes to car availability, several factors come into play. Firstly, the size of the agency’s fleet plays a significant role. A larger fleet generally means more options for customers, increasing the chances of finding the ideal car for their requirements. For example, let’s consider Agency XYZ with 200 vehicles versus Agency ABC with only 50 vehicles. The higher number of cars at Agency XYZ provides a wider range of choices, ensuring greater availability even during peak seasons or busy periods.
In addition to fleet size, another factor influencing car availability is customer demand. Popular models tend to be in high demand and may require advance booking to secure availability. Conversely, less popular models might have greater availability on short notice due to lower demand. It is essential to keep this in mind while considering your preferred pick-up dates and times.
To help you better understand how car availability can vary across different rental agencies, here is a bullet point list highlighting important factors:
- Fleet size: Larger fleets offer more choice.
- Customer demand: Popular models may have limited availability without prior reservation.
- Pick-up dates and times: Planning ahead increases the likelihood of securing desired vehicles.
- Special events or holidays: Car availability may become scarce during peak travel periods.
Now let’s delve deeper by examining a table comparing two hypothetical rental agencies:
| Rental Agencies | Fleet Size | Available Models | Peak Travel Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agency XYZ | 200 | Sedans, SUVs | Summer vacation |
| Agency ABC | 50 | Compact cars | Christmas season |
From this table, we can infer that Agency XYZ with its larger fleet offers a greater variety of car models. Additionally, during the summer vacation period, it might be more challenging to find available cars at both agencies due to increased demand. However, Agency ABC may have better availability during the Christmas season since compact cars are less popular during this time.
Considering these factors and analyzing data like this table can assist in making an informed decision when choosing a rental agency based on car availability. In the following section about “User reviews,” we will explore another aspect that helps gauge customer satisfaction and overall experience while renting from various agencies.
User reviews
Section H2: “Making a reservation”
Moving on to the process of making a reservation with car rental agencies, it is important for customers to understand the various steps involved. By following these steps, potential renters can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Let’s explore the reservation process in more detail.
Paragraph 1:
To make a reservation with a car rental agency, customers typically start by visiting the agency’s website or contacting their customer service center. This initial step allows individuals to check vehicle availability and compare prices across different models and rental durations. For instance, let us consider an example where John plans to rent a car for his upcoming family vacation. He visits the website of a well-known car rental agency, where he inputs his desired pickup location, dates, and times. The website then displays available options along with corresponding rates.
Paragraph 2:
Once customers have chosen their preferred vehicle and confirmed its availability during their desired time frame, they proceed to provide necessary personal information such as name, contact details, driver’s license number, and payment details. This step ensures that all parties involved are aware of their responsibilities and obligations throughout the rental period. To enhance user convenience further, many car rental agencies allow customers to create accounts or profiles on their websites so that future reservations can be made more efficiently.
- Peace of mind knowing your desired vehicle will be reserved exclusively for you.
- Convenience of selecting pick-up/drop-off locations based on individual preferences.
- Flexibility to modify or cancel reservations without significant penalties (subject to terms and conditions).
- Assurance of transparent pricing policies ensuring no hidden charges upon collection or return of the rented vehicle.
Paragraph 3:
To summarize the entire process discussed above, we present a table outlining key steps involved when making a reservation with a car rental agency:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the agency’s website or contact customer service center for availability and pricing. |
| 2 | Choose preferred vehicle and confirm availability during desired time frame. |
| 3 | Provide personal information, including name, contact details, driver’s license number, and payment details. |
| 4 | Create an account/profile (optional) for easier future reservations. |
By following these steps and considering the emotional benefits associated with renting a car from reputable agencies, customers can ensure a seamless reservation process that caters to their specific needs.
Please let me know if there is anything else I can assist you with!