Car Rental Deposit Insurance and Vehicle Inspection
Complete Process to Avoid Pitfalls When Renting a Car: Document Deposits, Insurance Terms, Vehicle Inspection and Photos, and Fees for Returning the Car to a Different Location. Deposits, insurance, and vehicle inspection for car rentals are part of the preparatory work for traveling in Xinjiang: clarifying practical issues such as the season and number of days, documents and border permits, chartering and transportation, payment and internet access, food and accommodation all at once, so you can check them off before departure.
Documents and Deposit
Domestic travelers: ID card, driver's license. Most platforms will pre-authorize 3,000–8,000 RMB or collect a cash deposit; foreign travelers can rent with a passport, domestic driver's license, or translation, but car models may be limited, so confirm with the store in advance.
How to Choose Insurance
Basic insurance has low coverage. For driving in Duku or Pamir, it is recommended to buy "deductible waiver, glass and tire insurance"; carefully check the liability terms: off-road, flooding, and towing coverage requirements.
Car Inspection and Photos
When picking up the car, walk around and record a video: exterior scratches, tires and rims, glass cracks, fuel/electric meter, mileage, and test all interior facilities; when returning, take photos from the same light and angle to avoid disputes.
Return in a Different Location and Restrictions
Picking up in Urumqi and returning in Kashgar/Ili is common, with a cross-location fee of 500–1,500 RMB; some contracts restrict vehicles from leaving the region or entering certain mountain areas, so verbal and written confirmation is required for directions toward Duku.