Early returns and no-shows
Handle early car returns, understand refund policies, avoid no-show penalties, and manage unexpected delays with proper communication.
We understand that plans can shift unexpectedly; sometimes you may need to return a car earlier than planned, or circumstances might prevent you from picking it up at all. Ridee provides clear, fair processes for both situations, ensuring smooth coordination between you and your host while keeping your trip protected.
Returning your car early
You can return a vehicle before your scheduled end time if your plans change. However, early returns do not automatically qualify for refunds once a trip has started.
To return early:
- Open the Ridee app or sign in on the Ridee website
- Go to My Trips and select your active trip
- Tap End Trip Early (if available) or Message Host to coordinate an earlier return
- Follow your host's instructions for handover or drop-off
After your host confirms the early return in-app, the trip officially ends.
Tip: Always notify your host before arriving early; showing up without notice may lead to confusion or delays in confirming your return.
Refunds for early returns
Refund eligibility depends on your host's cancellation and refund policy.
In most cases:
- No refund applies once a trip has begun, even if you return the car early
- Some hosts may offer partial goodwill refunds at their discretion
- Any such adjustment must be processed through Ridee, not privately, to keep your account protected
If you believe an early return qualifies for a refund due to an issue with the car or host, contact Ridee Support with details.
Host availability during early returns
If you wish to return early, confirm that your host (or designated contact) is available to receive the car.
If the host cannot meet in person:
- Ask if a remote return option is allowed (for example, secure key drop or lockbox)
- Take clear photos of the car's condition and mileage before leaving
- End the trip through the app if prompted
Ridee strongly recommends completing all return steps digitally to ensure your trip record is complete and dispute-free.
What happens if you don't show up
If you fail to pick up your car at the scheduled start time without canceling or notifying your host:
- The trip will be marked as a No-Show
- You may be charged in full, depending on the host's cancellation policy
- The host has the right to cancel the booking and report the no-show through Ridee
No-shows are treated as last-minute cancellations and may affect your renter reliability rating.
Grace periods for late pickups
Ridee allows a brief grace period for late arrivals:
- If you're running late, message your host through the app immediately
- Most hosts allow a 30–60-minute window before marking a no-show
- After that, the host may cancel and retain applicable fees according to policy
Tip: Always communicate; a quick message can prevent misunderstandings and penalties.
Emergency or unavoidable delays
If an emergency (such as flight delay, traffic or illness) prevents you from arriving on time:
- Contact your host as soon as possible to explain the situation
- If your host agrees, they can adjust your pickup time or reschedule the trip
- If the host cannot accommodate, reach out to Ridee Support for assistance with rebooking or partial refunds (subject to policy)
Ridee evaluates emergencies on a case-by-case basis to ensure fairness for both guests and hosts.
Ending a trip early due to issues
If you need to return early because of a mechanical issue, host behavior, or another problem:
- Contact your host first to explain what's happening
- Then, reach out to Ridee Support to report the issue officially
Ridee may assist by arranging a replacement vehicle, partial refund or dispute resolution, depending on the situation and timing.
If your host is delayed
If your host experiences a delay (for example, arriving late to the pickup location):
- Wait at the agreed spot and message your host through the app
- If they are unresponsive after a reasonable time (typically 30 minutes), contact Ridee Support
Avoiding penalties
To protect your record and ensure a positive experience:
- Always cancel or modify through the app if you can't make it
- Avoid last-minute no-shows, they can impact your reliability score
- Communicate early if you're returning the car ahead of schedule
- Follow your host's drop-off instructions carefully
After a no-show is reported
Once a host reports a no-show:
- The trip is automatically canceled
- Refunds are applied (if eligible) according to the host's chosen policy
- You may need to rebook a new vehicle if you still require one
Repeated no-shows can result in temporary booking restrictions or account review by Ridee's Trust & Safety team.
Documentation and support
Ridee recommends always documenting:
- The time of arrival or return
- Vehicle condition photos (before and after use)
- In-app messages with your host
These records protect you in case of disputes over timing, charges or damages.
For unresolved issues, tap Contact Support in the app to get help from a Ridee support agent.
Need help with an early return or no-show? Contact our support team for help.