M
Definition
The practice of transporting two or more unrelated members with different pickup or drop-off locations in the same vehicle at the same time. Also referred to as "Shared Ride."
Overview
Why it Matters
This is the key to profitability. Billing two providers for the same hour of driver time doubles the revenue per hour (minus any "multi-load discount" required by the contract).
How it Works
The dispatch optimizer finds two members living near each other with appointments near each other and puts them on the same route manifest.
Code Comparison
Comparison: Multi-load vs. Group Trip
Multi-load: Distinct members, different itineraries, overlapping time.
Group Trip: Multiple members starting at the same place and going to the same place (e.g., 3 people from a group home going to an adult day care).
Common Questions
- Ride Time Violation: Picking up Member A, then driving 30 mins to get Member B, causing Member A to be in the car for 90 minutes (violating the "Max Ride Time" rule).
- Incompatible Passengers: Placing a dialysis patient (immunocompromised) in a car with a sick child (contagious).
- Limit multi-loading to 2 passengers for sedans and 3-4 for vans to maintain comfort.
- Ensure the "First On" is the "First Off" whenever possible to minimize ride time.
Sources
TCRP Report 130 - Shared Ride Paratransit Operations