Skip to Content

How strict is Zipcar late fee?

Zipcar late fees can be quite strict depending on the length of the reservation and the associated late fee policy. Generally, Zipcar has a grace period of 29 minutes after the scheduled start time of the reservation, and no fee is charged as long as you return the vehicle during this period.

If you are late, the fee will vary depending on the type of membership you have.

If you have a nonVIP membership, and you fail to return the car within 29 minutes after the start of your reservation, you will be charged for the extra time you were late, plus an additional $50 late fee.

An additional late fee of $50 will also be charged for each additional hour you are late, up to a maximum of $300.

If you have a Zipcar VIP membership, you get a longer grace period of 59 minutes; however, the late fee for this type of membership will be higher. You will be charged for the extra time you are late, plus an additional $150 late fee.

An additional late fee of $150 will also be charged for each additional hour you are late, up to a maximum of $900.

In either case, these fees are in addition to the initial charge you are assessed for the time you actually used the car. So, it is important to be sure that you return the car on time to avoid costly late fees.

What happens if I bring Zipcar back early?

If you need to return your Zipcar earlier than originally scheduled, you can do so as long as you notify Zipcar in advance. Depending on your membership type and the time of day you need to return the car, you may incur additional fees which will be outlined in the rental agreement.

These additional fees can include a minimum hourly fee, per mile fee, or duration fee. Additionally, if you return a Zipcar more than 30 minutes late, you’ll incur additional hourly fees. It’s best to review the terms of your specific agreement and contact Zipcar in advance if you’ll be returning the car early, as late returns may still be charged the full rental fee.

Can you add more time to Zipcar?

Yes, it is possible to add additional time to your Zipcar rental. To do so, you will need to contact Zipcar customer service. When you call, you will need to provide your Zipcard number and then you can request additional time for your rental.

There is an additional fee for adding time depending on the rental; for instance, for weekend rates, it’s an additional $7 per hour. The Zipcar customer service representative will let you know the exact charges, including taxes and fees that may apply.

You can also add additional time online through your Zipcar account on their website. You will be provided with an estimated cost before submitting your request. The payment for the additional time is taken from the credit card you used to book the car.

Once Zipcar approves your request and your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email, and your additional time will be added to your reservation.

Does Zipcar refund unused time?

No, Zipcar does not refund unused time, as Zipcar members are responsible for managing their own reservations and ensuring they get the most requested vehicle they need to meet their needs. However, Zipcar may make exceptions and provide refunds depending on the individual circumstances.

For instance, if the reservation was inadvertently extended due to a technical or customer service issue or if you accidentally reserved the wrong vehicle or location, you may be eligible for a refund.

In some cases, Zipcar may also provide compensation in the form of a credit or add extra time to an upcoming reservation. To request an adjustment or refund, please contact Zipcar customer service.

Does Zipcar have a cancellation fee?

Yes, Zipcar does have a cancellation fee. If you need to cancel a reservation, you must do so at least 1 hour before the reserved start time. If you cancel after this time, you may be charged a cancellation fee, which will be the same as the reserved rate.

Your reservation will be canceled immediately and you will receive a confirmation email. If you don’t receive a confirmation, please contact Zipcar to ensure your reservation has been canceled or to see if a cancellation fee may apply.

Can I unlock my Zipcar early?

Yes, you can unlock your Zipcar early if you’d like. To do this, you must be logged in to your Zipcar account on the app or website. Once logged in, go to the Reservations tab and find your reservation.

If you are within 30 minutes of the reserved start time, you can tap or click the “Unlock Now” button to instantly unlock your Zipcar. Please note that if you unlock your Zipcar early, you will be charged for the extra time.

How long is Zipcar reimbursement?

Zipcar reimbursement is typically issued within 1-2 weeks of submitting the required paperwork. After submitting all required documents to Zipcar, such as receipts for repair and replacement costs, a check will be issued and mailed to the address provided on the reimbursement form.

To ensure prompt reimbursement, be sure to submit all necessary paperwork as soon as possible and keep a copy of anything you send to Zipcar in case additional information is needed.

Can I cancel a Zipcar reservation?

Yes, you can cancel a Zipcar reservation. To do so, you will need to go to your account online and select the particular reservation you would like to cancel. Once at the reservation screen, you will want to look for the “Cancel Reservation” button or link located at the top of the page.

Click that link and then confirm that you would like to cancel. Once you have confirmed the cancellation, the reservation will be removed from your account and you will receive an email from Zipcar confirming the cancellation.

Please be aware that you will be charged a cancellation fee if you cancel within 24 hours of the reservation start time.

How does Zipcar know if you’re late?

Zipcar knows if you’re late based on the time you entered your reservation in their system. When your reservation time passes, they will automatically charge you late fees. They also have their Zipsters, who check to make sure the car is returned on time.

They will be alerted if you exceed your reservation time by 30 minutes or more and will follow up with a report on your late return. Additionally, you will receive an email notification informing you of any late return charges.

These charges are based on the amount of time you exceeded your reservation time and will be reflected on your payment statement.

Can I start Zipcar late?

Yes, you can start Zipcar late. For most Zipcar locations, you can join anytime and begin booking cars immediately. The only time you might have to wait to start using Zipcar is if your local city or state has laws or regulations that may require you to wait for an identification card or decal to be issued.

When you join, you will be asked a few questions and will be required to submit proof of your driver’s license and residency. Once everything is verified, you can immediately begin using Zipcar. Additionally, Zipcar offers a seven-day free trial for those who just sign up.

During the free trial you can use the service for free for seven days and then join for regular membership.

Does Zipcar refund if you return early?

Yes, Zipcar does offer refunds if you return your car earlier than expected. This is based on the Flexible Return Promise, which guarantees that you will receive a partial refund if you return the car before the reserved time.

The total refund varies based on the amount you have already paid and will be credited back to the card you used to reserve the car. If you haven’t yet paid, you won’t be charged for the extra time. You can view your refund on your Zipcar account within 24 hours of returning the car.

For any additional questions, you can also contact Zipcar customer service.

Are zipcars tracked?

Yes, all Zipcars are tracked via GPS, allowing them to be located quickly and accurately. This also allows Zipcar to limit access to only those members who have booked the car in advance. The Zipcar app also allows members to track and monitor their cars, regardless of location.

This includes real-time feedback on fuel levels and remaining miles available, as well as the ability to unlock and lock the car remotely. This feature also allows members to check if their Zipcar is parked in a safe and legal spot.

How do you refuel a Zipcar?

You can refuel a Zipcar easily and conveniently. First, locate the nearest gas station. Make sure to use the Zipcar Fuel Finder feature to find a station near you. Next, locate your vehicle’s fuel door, which can usually be found on either side of the car.

Once you’ve located the fuel door, open it and insert the ZipTrip card that came with the car when you picked it up. Once this is done, insert the gas pump nozzle into the tank and begin filling the tank with gas.

Once finished filling the tank, securely replace the fuel door and return the ZipTrip card to its original location. Finally, simply drive off and enjoy your ride. As your Zipcar account will always be billed with the cost of the fuel, there is no need to make a payment at the gas station.

Can you return Zipcar to different location?

Yes, you can return Zipcar to a different location than where you picked up the car. When you make a reservation, you can select where you want to pick up the car, as well as the location where you want to drop it off.

Depending on where you are returning the car, you may have to pay a drop-off fee. This fee will vary depending on the distance between the pick-up and drop-off locations. If you drop off the car at a different location than where you picked it up, you must notify Zipcar of the change prior to your reservation ending.

This can be done through Zipcar’s website or mobile app.

How do I start my Zipcar?

Starting your Zipcar is a simple process. First, you’ll need to become a Zipcar member. You can do this online or by downloading the Zipcar app. Once you’re a member, you can reserve a Zipcar in your area.

You’ll need to have your driver’s license and a credit or debit card ready when you reserve your Zipcar. Once your Zipcar is reserved, you’ll receive an email or a text message with a 6-digit code. Once you arrive at the Zipcar, you’ll need to enter the 6-digit code which will unlock the car.

After the car is unlocked, take a picture of the odometer and transmission shifter so that your mileage and gas use can be tracked. Insert your Zipcard into the card reader, press the big green button both inside and outside of the car, open the door with your Zipcard, adjust the seat and mirrors, start the car, and you’re ready to go!.

How can I extend my Zipcar trip?

It is possible to extend your Zipcar trip as long as your reservation is not already overbooked or at risk of being double booked. To extend your trip, you will need to call or text the Zipcar Customer Support team, who can advise you on how to extend the trip.

You will need to specify the date and time you want to extend your reservation to and let them know your updated pick-up and return times. You will also be required to confirm your existing reservation details.

Depending on the availability of vehicles and your membership status, you may be charged an additional fee for the extension. Once your request has been approved, Zipcar will send you a confirmation email and update your reservation details.