Understanding Power Bank Rental Charges
When renting a power bank through Brick, you may notice charges that seem higher than expected. This article explains the common reasons behind such charges, including temporary authorizations, refund timelines, billing discrepancies, and rental policies.
Temporary Charges and Authorizations
Brick applies a temporary authorization charge at the start of every rental. This is a standard practice to ensure the availability of funds. The amount is not the final rental fee and is typically returned to your bank account within 4–7 business days after the rental ends. For example:
A €1 or €10 hold may be placed initially, depending on the location and rental terms. This amount is released once the rental is completed.
Refund Timelines and Processes
Refunds for temporary charges are processed automatically after the rental ends. The exact timing depends on your bank but generally takes 4–7 business days. If you do not see the refund within this period, contact your bank for further assistance.
Common Billing Discrepancies
Time-Based Billing
Brick charges based on time tiers. For example:
Rentals exceeding 30 minutes move into the next billing tier, resulting in an additional charge. For instance, a 40-minute rental may cost €2 instead of €1.
Hourly rentals are charged per started hour. A 2-hour and 6-minute rental may be billed for 3 hours.
Minimum Charges
Some locations have a minimum rental fee, even for short durations. For example:
A 22-minute rental may be charged a minimum fee of 490 HUF.
Locations with a $2 minimum charge may apply this fee even if the hourly rate suggests a lower cost.
Duplicate or Excessive Charges
Occasionally, users may notice duplicate charges. This often occurs due to the initial authorization fee being mistaken for an additional charge. Ensure you check your account to confirm whether the amount is a temporary hold or a final charge.
Steps for Resolving Overcharge Issues
If you believe you were overcharged:
Verify the charges in your bank account to distinguish between temporary holds and final charges.
Check the rental duration and applicable billing tiers or minimum charges.
Contact Brick support with details of your rental, including the date, time, and location, for further assistance.
FAQs
Why was I charged a temporary fee at the start of my rental?
Temporary fees are authorization holds to ensure funds are available. These are refunded within 4–7 business days after the rental ends.
Why was I charged more than the advertised rate?
Billing tiers and minimum charges may apply based on rental duration and location policies. For example, exceeding 30 minutes or renting in a location with a minimum fee can result in higher charges.
What should I do if my refund hasn’t been processed?
If your refund hasn’t appeared after 7 business days, contact your bank or Brick support for assistance. By understanding these policies and processes, you can better manage your power bank rentals and avoid unexpected charges.