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HomeBike Box Rentals
Bike Box Rentals
Reserve early! Demand for the boxes is high,
particularly in the summer and fall.
Rent a Bike Box
Our goal is to get you the bike box when and where you need it. And ensure it is available for the next member who has reserved the box after you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the cost of a bike box rental?
What is the cost of a bike box rental?

Bike box rentals are $21.00 per week (one week minimum). $3.00 per additional day.

Due to administrative limitations, payments are nonrefundable. If your plans change after paying for the bike box, you can use your payment towards a future rental for up to one year in the future. You also have the option of letting another Potomac Pedalers member use the box by applying your payment towards their rental.

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Where do I pick up my bike box?
Where do I pick up my bike box?

You will most likely be picking up the box from the Bike Box Coordinator's home address. It's also possible that you'll be picking up the box from the previous user. Pickup location will be determined once you reserve the box.

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How much does it cost to ship a bike box?
How much does it cost to ship a bike box?

Freight carriers such as FedEx and UPS charge about $100 domestic. Shipping across borders and/or overseas is substantially higher.

You can also search the web for companies that specialize in shipping bikes.

Box Dimensions

Outer Size - 47" x 30.5" x 10.5"

Inner Size - 46 3/4" x 30.1/4" x 10.1/4"

Weight - 31 lbs empty

The box rolls on two wheels.

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What are the box dimensions?
What are the box dimensions?

Box Dimensions

Outer Size - 47" x 30.5" x 10.5"

Inner Size - 46 3/4" x 30.1/4" x 10.1/4"

Weight - 31 lbs empty

The box rolls on two wheels.

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Can I fly with a bike box?
Can I fly with a bike box?

Most domestic airlines allow bike boxes and typically charge $50 to $100 for each leg of travel—though pricing can vary widely. For accurate pricing you'll need to contact your airline directly with box dimensions and weight.

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What is the cost of a bike box rental?
What is the cost of a bike box rental?

Bike box rentals are $21.00 per week (one week minimum). $3.00 per additional day.

Due to administrative limitations, payments are nonrefundable. If your plans change after paying for the bike box, you can use your payment towards a future rental for up to one year in the future. You also have the option of letting another Potomac Pedalers member use the box by applying your payment towards their rental.

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How do I return my bike box?
How do I return my bike box?

When using a commercial shipper such as FedEx or UPS,we recommend that you send your bike to its destination no less than 10 days before you plan to start riding. In order to ensure that the box is back in time for the next member, we ask that you schedule a return date that is 10 days from the day you plan to put the box in the hands of the return shipper. Therefore, a one week trip with commercial shipping could require up to 27 days of rental.

Occasionally you may be asked to coordinate delivery with the next renter. We will notify you if that's the case.

It is very important that the bike box be returned on the agreed upon date.Other members who have reserved the box after you are depending on you to get the bike box back in time for their trip.

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What is the process for disassembling and packing a bike box?
What is the process for disassembling and packing a bike box?

You will need tools to disassemble and reassemble your bike - usually a set of metric allen wrenches. Potomac Pedalers does not provide these tools. If you're not mechanically inclined or you're not comfortable doing this, take your bike to a shop and have their mechanics disassemble and pack it. You should bring the required tools on your trip for reassembly, even if you don't know how to reassemble it on your own. If you're going on a guided bike tour, there will most likely be someone on the trip who can assist you with assembly. Check in advance with your tour guide.

Remove the wheels

Remove the derailleur and wrap it in bubble wrap (leave chain & cable intact)

Remove the handlebars and leave all cables attached (With an older type quill stem, it will be necessary to loosen the stem bolt and turn the bars or remove the stem from the headset. This will probably entail disattaching the front brake cable.)

Remove the pedals

Remove the seat

Lay the frame, handlebars and seat inside of the box on top of one of the foam pads

Remove the wheel skewers from the wheels and pack the wheels on top of a second foam pad with the freewheel up and the rims overlapping.

Pack your pedals and tools in a zip lock bag

You may want to add bubble wrap or other packing material around components that could rub against each other during transit - derailleur, chain, seat post, etc.

Do not lock the box because airport security may damage the bike box if they need to open it and look inside. This will render the bike box ineffectual and your bike may no longer be protected.

For more information or to reserve a bike box, contact the coordinator based in the area where you'd prefer to pick up and return the box. Karen is in MD; Adam is in Northern VA.

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