Vanpooling
A vanpool is an organized ridesharing arrangement where a group of commuters ride to and from work on a regular basis. If you are interested in trying or joining a carpool or vanpool, the RideShare program can help you find other people going the same way at the same time, or introduce you to possible vanpools that operate in your area.
Never vanpooled before? Find answers to common questions about vanpooling below.
- What is a vanpool?
- Why should I join a vanpool?
- What are my vanpooling options?
- How many people are in a vanpool?
- How much does it cost?
- How do I start or join a vanpool?
What is a vanpool?
A vanpool is a ridesharing arrangement where a group of commuters ride to and from work on a regular basis. Vanpools are usually more structured and formalized in their organization than carpools. They work best when the commute is 30 miles or more and there are some riders who do not want to drive at all. Vanpools operate in different ways: some are leased, some are provided by employers and some commuters use their own vehicles.
Why should I join a vanpool?
- Decreases commuting time and expenses
- Qualifies you for rider incentives (where available)
- Reduces wear and tear on your personal vehicle
- Allows you to catch up on work, sleep or other activities (e.g., read a book or newspaper)
- Guaranteed Ride Home program
What are my vanpooling options?
The AdVANtage Vanpool program is operated by the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). The AdVANtage Program provides FREE eight-passenger and 12-passenger luxury vans for commuting. VSPI Commuter Vanpools operate commuter transportation and mobility programs from more than 40 centers in 50 major urban areas throughout the world. Use the online matching tool to locate a vanpool route in your area that meets your commute requirements. Call 1-800-VAN-RIDE.
How many people are in a vanpool?
Usually a vanpool is made up of seven to 15 riders, depending on the size of the vehicle.
How much does it cost?
In the AdVANtage Vanpool Program, the driver typically pays no monthly fee and is allowed up to 500 personal-use and other non-commute miles per month.
How do I start or join a vanpool?
If you would like to apply for the AdVANtage program, complete and submit the AdVANtage Vanpool form (pdf) to KCATA. Commuters interesting in joining or driving a vanpool can contact AdVANtage or call 816/346-0820 for more information.