FAQs for Group Riders

Technical requirements for the FlexVanpool app are here: App Requirements.

FAQs for Group Drivers are here: Group Driver FAQs.

FAQs for Flex Riders are here: Flex Rider FAQs.

What is FlexVanpool?

I already ride in a vanpool to work. How can FlexVanpool help me?

The FlexVanpool app enhances the vanpool experience, adding a new level of flexibility and convenience. Features such as in-app group messaging and real-time tracking of the van’s location are designed to help you in coordination and communication of your daily commute trips with the group. Functionality for seat reservation and ride cancellation take the guess work out of who’s coming and who’s not. On days your schedule differs from your group schedule, you could book a ride with another group going the same way! In the same way, co-workers who need an occasional ride can use the app to book a ride with your group. Finally, the app collects valuable ridership data used for automated bookkeeper ridership reports. The data also provides insights to program managers to further improve the program.

Vanpools are a fast and direct commute to the work location and the app enhances this experience to make it more efficient, adaptable, and user-friendly.

Where is FlexVanpool currently available?

I’m an existing vanpool group rider. Can I and my group start taking advantage of the app?

FlexVanpool is currently available through select vanpool agencies in Washington State. Check with your vanpool agency to see if they are part of the FlexVanpool program and if your group can join in.

My group is full and we don’t want to offer rides to FlexRiders. Can we still use the app?

Yes. Groups can take advantage of the many feaures in the app for coordination, communication and automated bookkeeping reports without opening up seats for occasional FlexRiders that are not part of your group. Be sure to mention that to your vanpool agency contact.

How do I get started?

Download the FlexVanpool app at your Apple or Google Play store. If you already have an account at RideshareOnline.com or any of its partner programs, use the same email address in the app. If you do not have an account there, create one using your employer email address and then use the same account to login to the app. Keep in mind – FlexVanpool is currently available only to select vanpool agencies in Washington State. If you’re not sure, check with your vanpool agency if your group can participate.

Am I required to use the app if I am a monthly rider in the group?

As a group rider, am I required to perform specific actions in the app?

Yes, if your group is using the FlexVanpool app. The benefits of the app to you, your group and the entire program are realized when you and everyone in the group use the app. As a monthly rider in the group, here is what you need to do in the app.

  • When you get the app, use the Weekly Schedule menu to set up your weekly schedule with the group which may be different than the group’s schedule. You only need to do this again if your regular weekly schedule changes.
  • When you go on a vacation, be sure to go to the Settings screen and turn off the option “Book weekly rides automatically”. You can turn this on once you return.
  • Once a week, preferably on Sunday, review rides booked for the week ahead. Cancel booked rides you won’t take.

Using these simple actions helps keep the group informed and helps in coordination. Of course, you’re welcome to use the app more and take advantage of additional features such as in-app trip messages, real-time location tracking, flexible ride bookings, etc. FlexVanpool makes vanpooling convenient and enhances your vanpool experience.

I am a monthly rider in the vanpool. I am going on a vacation next week. Can I turn off auto-booking for the next two weeks?

Yes, you can turn off auto-booking. Go to the Settings screen in the app and turn off the option “Book weekly rides automatically”. When you return, be sure to turn on the setting by Friday to resume autobooking for the upcoming week. NOTE – the setting does not cancel trips already booked. If you have trips booked that you won’t be going, be sure to cancel those individually.

My schedule changed and I need the flexible ride booking. When I go to book rides, I see “Daily Rides Available” but I don’t see the book option. I see a message “You have to be in the XXX network to ride in this vanpool.” What is wrong?

There could be a few things that might cause this.

  • Check if your account is associated with your employer by going to the Profile screen. If not associated, use your work email address to complete the network association. Then try again.
  • If the employer network for the matching vanpool is different, then you won’t be able to book a ride in that vanpool. At this time, you can only book rides on vanpools associated with your employer and if your employer is participating.

I booked my first ride flexible ride. What can I expect on my first trip?

Great job on booking your first flexible ride! You already know vanpools are not like Uber / Lyft. But you’re riding with a different group than your regular group. Here are a few quick reminders.

  • The driver and van won’t come to your location to pick you up. Look at the Upcoming Trips section in the app and use the map link to find out where you will meet your driver. This could involve a walk or a drive to a location such as a park & ride. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the location. Message the driver through the app if you aren’t sure.
  • The vanpool group and driver cannot wait long if you’re not at the stop already when the van arrives. Vanpools are a fast and direct commute to your work location – make sure to give yourself enough time to get to the pick-up location before the vanpool arrives.
  • When approaching the van, reconfirm the vehicle information in the app and get the driver’s attention. Follow driver instructions and board the available seat. You may be at a crowded spot and the driver may not easily see you so be prepared to draw attention to yourself. We would hate for you to miss your ride because the driver did not see you.

I don’t see my rides for the week ahead in the Upcoming Rides screen.

Go to the Settings screen in the app and make sure the option “Book weekly rides automatically” is on. If it was off, you will need to book your rides for the week ahead using the app. If you’re returning from a vacation, be sure to turn on “Book weekly rides automatically”.

If rides on specific days are missing, use the Weekly Schedule menu and make sure your schedule reflects the days you go with your group.

I’m getting too many app notifications.
I’m not getting some app notifications.

Some notifications are important. For example, if the trip isn’t happening and your ride gets cancelled – you need to know about it. Don’t turn off app notifications completely. Instead go to the Settings menu and turn specific notifications on or off based on your preference. At the minimum, we recommend group riders have Rider Notifications on and group drivers have both Rider Notifications and Driver Notifications on.

If you’re not receiving some app notifications, check to make sure those are enabled in the app Settings screen.

HELP & SUPPORT
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