Vanpooling

Traditionally, five or more people share a vanpool. This can greatly cut down commute costs and stress. Some employers may offer vans within their own fleets for employee vanpools, which would benefit employees by saving commute costs, and employers may receive pre-tax benefits through IRS code 132 (f).

 

Vanpooling Services

Benefits

Vanpooling is a sustainable way to travel for longer commutes (over 10 miles each way). Its many benefits include:

Save on Gas, Parking, & Insurance
Less Wear & Tear
Less Stress Commuting
Reduce Traffic
Improve Air Quality

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started?

Contact either Capital Metro or an Enterprise representative to start coordinating your commute. Metro RideShare uses vehicles leased through Enterprise.

https://www.commutewithenterprise.com/en/faqs/how-do-i-get-started.html

How does a vanpool work?

In most cases, a vendor representative will determine the best route based on the home and work locations of the participants. Riders usually meet at a Park & Ride lot or other central meeting location before work and are dropped off there after the work day has ended.

Who drives in a vanpool?

It is recommended that riders share driving duties, but each driver will have their motor vehicle record checked annually. The program also requires that each approved driver meet the following criteria:  possess a valid driver’s license, be at least 25 years old, no more than two moving violations in the past 3 years, no major convictions (such as reckless driving or driving under the influence), be licensed at least 5 years in the U.S., and comply with any laws required by the state.

How much does a vanpool cost?

Each vanpool cost is different depending on the type of vehicle, amenities, and commute distance. Fuel costs are shared with the participants, but pre-tax subsidies are available to pay for these costs. Some companies and government agencies also offer subsidies to lower the cost of your monthly payment or cover the total entirely.

Where is the van parked at night?

The van can either remain in the central location in a well-lit parking lot, or the driver may take it home for the night.

What if I want to change groups or use another commuting option?

Most vanpool programs require a month-to-month commitment. A 30-day notice should be given to the primary driver or coordinator for the group. The group must also provide a 30-day notice to the vendor if they decide to end their vanpool.

What if I have an emergency or a change in schedule?

Commute Solutions offers an Emergency Ride Program for unscheduled overtime or if your vanpool becomes unexpectedly unavailable. Read more about the program on our Emergency Ride Home page. Other ride sharing or ride hailing options may also provide a solution if you can’t make your vanpool ride.

Tools & Resources

Capital Metro RideShare Program
Enterprise Rideshare

Take advantage of a smarter commute option!  Save time and money with an easy and convenient way to get to work with the Capital Metro RideShare program. The program provides eligible groups of 5-12 people with a month-to-month vanpool lease agreement including insurance, maintenance, 24-hour roadside assistance, and optional fuel purchasing program.

Vanpool fares vary and are based on vehicle type, commute distance, group size, fuel, and tolls. The monthly cost is shared by the number of riders. The Metro RideShare program provides groups with a monthly subsidy towards the vanpool lease. Vanpool groups must have an origin and/or destination in the Capital Metro service area.

Visit www.capmetro.org/rideshare or call 512-477-RIDE (7433) to create or join a vanpool.

Commuters may also choose Enterprise Rideshare for reliable and quality vehicles to experience the same Enterprise Rent-A-Car Customer Service that has made them a national leader. Enterprise Rideshare transports more than 25,000 riders a day in vanpools. The program is supported by the extensive Enterprise Rent-A-Car neighborhood network of more than 5,500 rental offices located within 15 miles of 90 percent of the U.S. population.

As part of the full-service vanpool package, you’ll get a late-model, well-equipped vehicle for maximum comfort, plus comprehensive maintenance, roadside assistance, and insurance, as well as access to their Guaranteed Ride Home program.

Contact Enterprise by calling 800 VAN-4-WORK, and they can answer any questions you may have about the benefits of vanpooling with Enterprise Rideshare.