In the era of collaborative spending, people aren’t just making extra money by renting out their cars and spare rooms. Almost anything of value can be shared, and this includes alternative modes of transportation and entertainment such as bicycles and surfboards.
SpinLister started in 2012 as a peer-to-peer bike rental program. Today listers can rent skis, surfboards, snowboards, stand-up paddleboards and more.
How does Spinlister work?
Decide what you’re willing to rent, take a photo and set your rate. You can charge by the hour, day or week. All payments are handled securely through the Spinlister system. They charge 17.5% commission on every rental (listing is free).
Bicycles are insured up to $10,000. Renters must sign a liability waiver so you don’t have to worry about anyone getting hurt while using your equipment.
The company has listers in more than 100 countries. Some earn just a few extra bucks a month. Some earn hundreds. Today we’re chatting with Jessica Andrews, a spinlister in San Francisco.
Tell us a little about yourself. What was your motivation for joining SpinLister?
I started cycling in college and quickly realized how social and beneficial a sport it is, and that it can be done at any age and at any fitness level. I mostly ride road bikes but have dabbled in the MTB world, as the Bay Area has great trails for both types. I live and work in SF and love being able to commute to work on my bike. Spinlister fits my lifestyle well as I enjoy similar services like Getaround and Airbnb and enjoy being part of a sharing community.
What is the process to get listed on the site? What are the requirements?
Listing a bike is easy. Profile setup takes about a minute to add your information and verify a phone number, Facebook or Twitter account that fosters trust for both listers and renters. Listing the bike is just as easy but only takes a few minutes as you need to take a photo, give a description and price After the listing is reviewed by Spinlister, it goes live and can be rented on the spot.
What is normal exchange like?
Exchange has two parts, Online Request/Detailed Plan and Personal Exchange. The request period is where I find out if my tenant will be bringing any of their own gear, paddles, seats, helmets, etc. and when and where it is convenient for us both to meet. The swap part is great because I can give a name and suggest a route, plus I can add any personal preferences like please lock the bike securely, this is SF after all.
How much can you expect to earn on SpinLister? How are you paid?
I have 4 bikes listed, ranging from a basic get-around-the-city bike to a mid/high-end road bike, that generate about $150/month. January was a big month for me totaling $400 in earrings, but March was much slower. Every two weeks I get a check from SpinLister based on how many rentals I had during that pay period.
Any tips for those new to SpinLister?
As a lister, look at other listings in your area and see what price point makes sense when listing your bike and make sure you’re comfortable with renting it. As a renter, this is a great way to meet locals who can give you advice on bike routes or beaches if you’re renting a SUP or surfboard.
No Comments
Leave a comment Cancel