How does uber deal with luggage

Choose an XL or SUV option when transporting three or more checked-size suitcases; a standard sedan typically fits one to two large suitcases plus one carry-on.

Checked suitcase benchmark: 27 in (68 cm) length, 18 in (46 cm) width, 12 in (30 cm) depth. Carry-on benchmark: 22 in (56 cm) × 14 in (36 cm) × 9 in (23 cm). Typical trunk volume estimates: compact sedan ~300–400 L, midsize sedan ~400–500 L, small SUV ~500–700 L, full-size SUV ~700–1000 L. Capacity examples: compact sedan – 0–2 checked bags; midsize – 1–3; small SUV – 3–4; full-size SUV – 4–6.

Before booking: count cases, note oversized items, select a vehicle class that matches estimated volume, then message the driver after dispatch to confirm space. At airports, allow extra pickup time during peak periods and choose curbside pickup points shown on ground signage to speed loading.

Loading recommendations: prefer soft-sided bags to compress space, place fragile items in the cabin if seat space exists, close zippers and secure straps to avoid snagging. If the trunk is full, ask the driver for permission to place a bag on the floor behind the front seats; avoid blocking airbags or the driver’s sightlines.

Left an item behind: open the app, go to trip history, tap the trip, then select the lost-item option or submit a help request. Provide trip ID, item description, photos, and preferred return method. Driver retrieval fees commonly range about $5–$20 depending on locale; handling fees through support teams may apply.

For very large shipments or multiple boxes, book a vehicle class intended for freight or hire a courier service. Drivers may refuse loads that pose safety risks or violate local regulations; declare oversized or hazardous items ahead to prevent cancellations and extra trips.

Practical tips: offer assistance loading heavy items and tip drivers for extra handling; photograph bags before handover to avoid disputes; keep passports, cash and electronics in a personal bag carried into the cabin.

Ride-hailing policy for passenger bags

Reserve an XL or SUV option when transporting three or more standard checked suitcases (27″ / 69 cm) or when aggregate bag volume exceeds ~40 cu ft.

Capacity by vehicle type

Practical rules, fees and lost-item protocol

Place fragile items inside soft-sided bags or use padding to reduce breakage risk; stack hard-shell suitcases horizontally to maximize trunk efficiency.

Drivers may decline oversized or hazardous items such as propane tanks, corrosive chemicals, pressurized aerosols, battery packs damaged or leaking; plan alternate transport for those goods.

Some drivers impose a manual surcharge for extra handling or return trips; clarify payment method prior to loading and document any agreed fee through in-app chat or a short photo of the item count.

If an item is left behind, report via the ride app within 24 hours and include photos plus precise pickup/dropoff timestamps; maintain receipts or serial numbers for high-value articles to speed recovery.

For strollers, collapsible pushchairs should be folded before pickup; car seats are accepted but must be secured by the passenger during transit if not installed in the vehicle.

When in doubt, measure combined dimensions and choose the next tier vehicle; selecting a larger option often costs less than arranging a separate courier for the same items.

Choosing the right vehicle for bulky or multiple bags in the ride-hailing app

Select an XL, SUV or Van when transporting more than two large suitcases or any item larger than 100×60×40 cm; standard sedans typically accommodate one large checked bag plus a carry-on.

Sedan trunk capacity: roughly 350–450 L (12–16 cu ft) – fits 1–2 checked-size suitcases. Compact SUV: about 450–600 L – fits 2–3. Midsize/large SUV or minivan: roughly 700–1,200 L – fits 4–6 or bulky items such as foldable bikes or multiple golf bags.

Selecting vehicle type in the app

Open the ride app, enter pickup and drop-off points, then swipe vehicle cards and inspect labels: Standard, XL, SUV, Van. Tap a vehicle to view passenger count and bag capacity hints when available. If uncertain, pick the next larger category; fares typically rise roughly 20–70% for XL/SUV and can double for a Van, depending on market and distance.

Preparing bags and informing the driver

Measure the largest item and send dimensions via the app message or call after booking. Fold or collapse strollers and secure loose straps; soft-sided bags stack better than rigid suitcases. Offer to load heavy pieces unless the driver declines; many drivers accept a small tip for handling bulky crates. For transfers requiring more than six checked bags or unusually shaped freight, reserve a Van or arrange a cargo/courier option instead of a passenger vehicle.

Communicating load and requesting driver help: pickup tips and in‑app messages

Send a single-line in-app message 3–5 minutes before arrival that states bag count, largest dimension and approximate weight, plus a direct assistance request; example: “2 large suitcases (28 in each), 1 carry-on. Trunk access needed; can you help loading? ~25 kg per case.”

In-app message templates

Quick pickup: “1 medium bag. Curb at 12 Main St, meet at building entrance. I’ll flag you down.”

Bulky item: “Boxed TV 48×28×6 in, ~12 kg. Require trunk space and help lifting; stairs at pickup.”

Mobility aid: “Foldable wheelchair, needs ramp or assistance. Request accessible vehicle if available.”

Fragile or awkward: “Glass frame, handle gently. I’ll tip $10 for loading/unloading help.”

Pickup staging and offering assistance

Stand where the driver can stop safely without blocking traffic; indicate exact door number or landmark in the first message. Use a short call when instructions exceed two lines or when precise positioning is needed.

Allow an extra 2–7 minutes for loading; mention if stairs, narrow hallways or elevator delays exist. Ask the driver to confirm ability to lift the stated weight before attempting heavy items; if they decline, request a larger vehicle or make alternate arrangements.

Tip amounts commonly range by effort: $3–5 for a single small bag, $6–10 for multiple or heavy bags, $10+ for heavy lifting plus stairs. Offer tip via the app after the ride or hand cash at pickup; include the intended tip amount in your message if it will influence willingness to assist.

Label fragile items clearly and secure loose straps or covers before arrival to reduce loading time. If an item is unusually large, include exact measurements and weight in the first message so the driver can decide whether the vehicle can accommodate it.

Driver acceptance and refusal: weight limits, safety concerns and polite declines

Ask the driver for permission before loading any single item heavier than ~40 kg or when total cargo likely exceeds 120–150 kg for a compact sedan. Typical practical thresholds: compact cars often accept 80–150 kg total cargo (trunk ~300–450 L), midsize sedans 120–220 kg (trunk ~450–550 L), small SUVs 200–300 kg (cargo 500–700 L) and full-size SUVs/vans 300+ kg (cargo 700–1,500+ L). Use these ranges only as a quick filter; ask the driver for final approval.

Safety triggers that commonly cause refusal: items that obstruct driver sightlines, block access to doors or seatbelts, create unsecured projectiles in the cabin, contain hazardous materials, or emit strong odors. Drivers often refuse if loading would require passengers to ride unbelted or sit in cargo space. Mechanical limits (suspension sag, tire load rating) and insurance/permit constraints also influence acceptance.

Damage and cleanliness considerations: drivers may decline transport of objects likely to scratch upholstery, leak fluids, or leave persistent residue. Expect to be billed for cleaning or repair if damage occurs; some drivers set flat refusal policies for heavy equipment, tools, plants, or pets without containment. Protect vehicle interior with blankets, straps, or waterproof covers when the driver agrees to take heavier items.

Best practices when requesting help: provide precise dimensions, approximate weight per item, and a photo through the in‑app message before arrival. Offer to load/unload, bring a dolly if applicable, and offer a reasonable tip for assistance. If a small personal item suffices as example, mention it (for instance, a compact umbrella like best ultra mini umbrella is trivial to stow).

Polite refusal scripts for drivers: use short clear lines to avoid escalation – “I’m sorry, I can’t take that; it’s too heavy for my vehicle and I’m not insured to carry heavy freight.” or “That item would block passenger seating; I can’t transport it.” Add an alternative if possible: “I can cancel so you can request a larger vehicle or a vehicle designed for cargo.”

Polite request scripts for passengers: lead with measurements and a single clear ask – “Hi – three suitcases, each ~20 kg and 70×40×30 cm. Will those fit in your trunk?” If driver hesitates, respond with an offer: “I can help lift and will cover an extra tip; would that work?”

When to choose another option: if the driver refuses for weight or safety reasons, book a vehicle class meant for bulky/heavy items or hire a courier/van service. Avoid forcing an agreement; refusal tied to safety or vehicle limits should be accepted to prevent fines, insurance denial, or damage claims.

Handling special items: service animals, fragile valuables and prohibited cargo

Notify the driver in the app before requesting pickup that a service animal will ride; state approximate weight, expected cabin location, and whether a harness or carrier will be used.

Service animals

In the United States, the ADA allows trained service animals to ride in passenger vehicles; drivers may ask only two questions: whether the animal is required due to a disability and what task the animal performs. Keep the animal on a short leash or harness; place it on the floorboard or on its own seat covered by a removable seat protector. If extra lifting or handling is required, offer a cash tip and confirm driver agreement before loading–drivers can decline help that risks injury or vehicle damage. If soiling occurs, expect possible cleaning fees ranging roughly $50–$150; submit photos and ride ID when disputing a charge.

Fragile and valuable items

Keep passports, jewelry, electronics, cash and critical documents on your person or inside a locked case. Pack fragile goods using two layers of protection: bubble wrap around the item plus a rigid outer box, then cushion remaining space using foam or towels so movement is under 1 inch during transit. Secure tall or heavy boxes on the floor or between seats and, when appropriate, use straps or bungee cords to prevent tipping. Photograph items before pickup and immediately after handoff to the driver; that evidence supports any later claim.

Prohibited cargo includes flammable liquids and gases (gasoline, propane), explosives and fireworks, corrosives and toxic chemicals, compressed gas cylinders, large lithium-ion battery packs (individual cells or batteries over ~100 Wh should not be transported), biological specimens or infectious materials, bulk hazardous waste, and live livestock or exotic animals unless the driver explicitly accepts such transport. Firearm transport laws vary by jurisdiction; transport only if unloaded, secured in a locked container, and both parties confirm compliance with local statutes; expect some drivers to refuse firearms.

If upholstery or carpet becomes stained beyond simple cleaning, professional equipment may be required; one resource for external cleaning tools is best pressure washer for house short pump va. For any damage claim, collect timestamped photos, the app ride ID and receipts for professional cleaning, then file a support request no later than 24–48 hours after the trip.

Reporting lost or damaged baggage: step-by-step claim, timelines and reimbursement options

Open the ride app, go to Your Trips, select the specific ride, tap Help and choose either “I lost an item” or “My item was damaged”; upload photos, purchase receipts, serial numbers and a clear replacement cost estimate before submitting.

Step-by-step claim

1. Capture evidence: take multiple clear photos of the item, closeups of damage, any identifying marks and vehicle interior where item was found.
2. Gather proof: scan or photograph original receipts, warranty cards, repair estimates or courier receipts that establish value and ownership.
3. Report via the trip record: submit the claim through the ride record entry so ride ID, driver name and GPS timestamps are attached automatically.
4. Attempt driver contact through the app option offered for lost items; if driver arranges return, confirm expected handover method and keep proof of courier costs.
5. If the driver is unresponsive or the item is high-value, file an in-app support request and attach a police report number if available.
6. Keep originals: retain damaged item and packaging until claim resolution; insurers or the service may request inspection.

Timelines and reimbursement options

• Initial reporting window: file the in-app report as soon as possible; reporting within 24–72 hours increases recovery chances and supports a faster decision.
• Response expectation: most automated acknowledgements arrive within 24 hours; a full claim review commonly completes in 5–14 business days depending on documentation and need for driver input.
• Reimbursement methods:
  • Direct reimbursement to original payment method after claim approval (standard for small-value items and cleaning fees).
  • Refunds that cover verified courier or return costs when receipts are supplied.
  • Replacement cost payments for damaged items when valid receipts and repair estimates exist; the service may require depreciation or partial settlements.
  • Driver-arranged returns sometimes include a nominal driver reimbursement for time and travel; secure written confirmation in the app before paying cash.
  • When value exceeds the service’s allowance, pursue homeowner renters insurance, credit card purchase protection or small-claims court; provide the platform’s decision as supporting evidence.
• If a claim is denied: request a documented reason via in-app support, provide any additional receipts or third-party estimates, then file an appeal or escalate to consumer protection channels if unresolved.

Documentation checklist:

• Ride receipt or trip ID
• Photos of item and damage
• Proof of purchase or serial number
• Repair or replacement estimates
• Courier receipts if item was returned at sender’s expense
• Police report for theft or high-value loss