How are late fees calculated?
Late fees are calculated on a daily prorated basis using the formula:
Rental price ÷ 7 = daily late fee
For example, a $50 rental would generate a late fee of $7.14 per day.
This applies regardless of the original rental length — even if the rental was only 1 or 2 days, the daily late fee is still calculated as rental price divided by 7.
Late fees are charged each day until a return is scheduled, for a maximum of 7 days.
How do I turn on late fees?
Open the order page for the rental
Toggle on "Charge Late Fees"
Once toggled on, the Renter will be charged the daily late fee automatically until the item is returned. You can do this as soon as the rental period ends — you do not need to wait or contact the Renter first, though we always recommend reaching out through the app as a first step.
When do I receive late fee payments?
Late fees are added to your account after the item is returned. They are subject to the same 20% platform fee as standard rental earnings. This fee allows Pickle to use resources to contact the Renter and help facilitate the return.
What happens after 7 days?
After 7 days of late fees, Pickle will begin an investigation to determine whether the item has been lost or stolen. At this point:
Contact Pickle Support if you have not already done so
Pickle will attempt to reach the Renter
If the item remains unreturned, the Renter will be charged the replacement value and Pickle will work to replace your item once proof of value is provided
Can I charge late fees on a rental that has already been returned?
No. Late fees can only be applied to an active rental where the item has not yet been returned. Once an item is marked as returned, late fees can no longer be applied retroactively.
A note on extensions
If a Renter asks for more time and you are happy to accommodate, you can approve a rental extension through the app. Once an extension is approved, late fees will not apply for the extended period. Only charge late fees if you have not agreed to an extension.