Car sharing services: Zipcar vs. Uber Rent
Quick Verdict
Both Zipcar and Uber Rent offer convenient car rental options, but they cater to different needs. Zipcar is suitable for short trips where fuel and insurance are included, despite membership fees and mileage limits. Uber Rent is better for longer distances with unlimited mileage, but users need to factor in fuel costs and potential cancellation fees. The choice depends on individual usage patterns and preferences.
- Zipcar requires membership fees but includes fuel and insurance in its rental costs, while Uber Rent does not have membership fees but typically requires renters to refuel the car before returning it.
- Zipcar has mileage limits, whereas Uber Rent often offers unlimited mileage.
- Both services offer a variety of vehicle types and easy booking through their respective apps.
- Zipcar operates globally, while Uber Rent is primarily available throughout the US.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Zipcar | Uber Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Membership Fees | $25 application fee; Monthly subscriptions around $7-$9; Annual subscription around $90; MIT-sponsored members may have a reduced annual fee of $35 and no application fee. | No separate membership fees; you need an Uber account. |
| Hourly Rental Rates | From £6.00/hour for Roundtrip and from £14/hour for Flex; Rates generally begin around $9 per hour but can vary depending on the vehicle type, location, and demand. | Available with extra charges for additional kilometers and minutes. |
| Daily Rental Rates | Approximately $74; University students and faculty may have lower daily rates. | Available. Daily fees are applied even if you rent for only an hour. Weekly and daily rates depend on market seasonality, length of rental, and car size. |
| Insurance Coverage | Includes state-minimum liability coverage; Drivers 21+ may get a combined single limit (CSL) of $300,000 per accident; Coverage is secondary to any personal insurance; Additional damage protection can be purchased. | Often included with a deductible (e.g., $1,000). Additional insurance may be available. |
| Fuel Policy | Fuel is included; Zipcars come with a fuel card; Return vehicle with at least a quarter tank of gas. | With Getaround, you're typically required to return the car with a full tank, or you'll be charged for the missing fuel. |
| Mileage Limits | US: 180-200 miles per 24-hour period; UK: 60 miles per day; Additional miles incur a per-mile fee ($0.58 - $0.67 per mile in the US); Mileage isn't limited per day if you book for multiple days. | Most rental agreements offer unlimited mileage. |
| Vehicle Availability | Vehicles in hundreds of cities, towns, campuses, and airports globally. | Check the Uber app for same-day pickup options. |
| Geographic Coverage Area | Operates in various cities and college campuses across the globe; Drive Zipcars across state lines within the US and Canada. | Available throughout the US. |
| Vehicle Types Offered | Sedans, SUVs, electric vehicles, cargo vans, and trucks; Availability varies by location. | Diverse range of vehicles, including gas and electric vehicles (EVs) from compact cars to SUVs. |
| Ease of Booking | Book cars on-demand via the Zipcar app; App allows you to find and reserve vehicles. | Easy to use, allowing you to compare, reserve, and pay in one place within the Uber app. |
| Cancellation Policy | Cancellations made up to an hour before the scheduled start time do not incur charges; Penalties may apply for late cancellations. | You may cancel reservations without fees if you pay at the rental counter. "Pay now & Save" reservations can be modified/canceled in the app if it's more than 48 hours before pickup. Cancellation fees may apply if canceling within 48 hours of pickup, according to the supplier's terms. |
| Cleaning and Maintenance Standards | Maintenance is included in the rates; Some reviews mention issues with cleanliness and maintenance. | Standard vehicle maintenance is often included in the rental. |
Overall Comparison
Zipcar: Hourly rates from
£6.00/hour, Daily rates around $74, Mileage limits 180-200 miles per day in the US. Uber Rent: Weekly rentals start at $260, Insurance deductible around $1,000, Unlimited mileage often available.
Pros and Cons
Zipcar
Pros:
- Convenient for occasional use
- Fuel included in rental cost
- Insurance included in rental cost
- Wide variety of vehicle types available
- Easy booking through the Zipcar app
- Operates in many locations globally
Cons:
- Application fees
- Additional fees for late returns, damage, and extra mileage
- Some users report issues with cleanliness and maintenance
- Some users report difficulties with customer service
- Mileage limits may apply
- Insurance coverage may need to be supplemented
Uber Rent
Pros:
- Wide range of vehicles to choose from
- Easy to compare, reserve, and pay within the Uber app
- Standard vehicle maintenance included
- Insurance often included with rentals from partners like Avis or Hertz
- Available throughout the US
Cons:
- Insurance may have a deductible
- Fuel policy requires returning the car with a full tank or incurring charges
- Cancellation fees may apply if canceling within 48 hours of pickup for 'Pay now & Save' reservations
User Experiences and Feedback
Zipcar
What Users Love
- Cost-effective compared to owning a car for occasional use
- Includes gas and insurance, potentially saving money
- Easy to find available cars near your location using the app
- Offers various vehicle types to choose from
Common Complaints
- Some users have reported issues with cleanliness and maintenance of vehicles
- Some users have reported difficulties with customer service
- Additional fees can apply, including late return fees, damage fees, and extra mileage charges
Value Perception
- Zipcar can be more cost-effective than owning a car, especially for occasional use
- Includes gas and insurance, potentially saving you money
- For extended rentals, traditional services might be more economical
User Recommendations
- Some reviews mention issues with the cleanliness and maintenance of vehicles.
- Zipcar aims to be transparent, but additional fees can apply.
- Zipcar provides at least the legally required minimum insurance. Consider supplementing it for more protection.
Uber Rent
What Users Love
- Easy to find available cars near your location using the Uber app or desktop computer
- Renting a car for Uber can be a good fit if you're testing the waters of ridesharing
- Most rental car options for Uber drivers include insurance, maintenance, and unlimited mileage, so you don't have to worry about unexpected costs
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- Weekly car rental costs for Uber start at $260. The total cost depends on the rental partner, vehicle model, local taxes, and rental duration.
- Some partners may require a refundable deposit.
User Recommendations
- Uber Rent is available everywhere in the US.
- You can find a very diverse range of vehicles on Uber Rent to get the perfect vehicle for your needs.