Common charter uses
Parking & Transportation Services charter buses support a variety of events and initiatives for the University and surrounding community, including:
- Academic and research-related travel to nearby sites or partner institutions
- Campus tours and orientation for prospective students, vendors, and guests
- Departmental retreats and staff meetings on or off campus
- Student organizations and community outreach trips
- Shuttle service for conferences or special events
Service options
The University is a dynamic organization that hosts a wide range of academic and community events. We offer flexible charter options designed to support University events, departmental programs, and community outreach across the Twin Cities campus and local destinations within 20 miles.
Billing and capacity
Charter buses are billed hourly with a two-hour minimum per vehicle. Standing room is permitted for short campus shuttles but is not allowed for highway or long-distance trips. Please contact us for current rates.
Reservations
Requirements
Department representatives at the University of Minnesota may request reservations with department approval.
- Timeline: Requests must be submitted with a minimum of two weeks’ notice.
- Payment: A valid EFS chartstring is required at the time of submission.
- Availability: A reservation request does not guarantee service. Our team reviews all requests to ensure service availability and alignment with Parking & Transportation Services guidelines.
Process
- Submit a request: A department representative completes the online Charter Bus Request Form using a valid EFS chartstring.
- Initial review: A Transit Operations team member reviews your request form for completeness and verifies driver and vehicle availability with our vendor.
- Quote preparation: Within three business days, our team will contact you to confirm trip details and provide a formal service quote.
- Reservation confirmation: Upon acceptance of the quote, our team finalizes your reservation with the charter vendor and confirms all trip logistics.
Depending on trip length, location, requested amenities, or equipment availability, we may recommend outside providers to best meet your needs.
Supporting the mission
Providing reliable charter service enables various departments to fulfill the University’s mission of education, research, and outreach.
Examples of recent trips
Policies
Accessibility
All buses are equipped with ramp accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility devices. See our Code of Conduct for information on service animals.
Billing and payment
PTS is billed by our vendor for all charter service and will pay using the EFS number provided during the signup process.
Cancellations
- A minimum two-week cancellation notice is required to prevent charges.
- If a short-notice service is approved and scheduled within the two-week window, that service is not exempt from the cancellation policy.
Code of Conduct
All charter passengers must abide by the Campus Transit Code of Conduct.
No shows
You will be charged for the scheduled service if you fail to cancel or do not show.
Restrooms
Our buses are not equipped with restroom facilities and buses are not able to stop outside of predetermined routes.
Short notice requests and changes
A minimum two-week notice is required for booking, changes, or updates to ensure we can accommodate your needs. If you have a last-minute request that is within our two-week window, please contact us.
Storage
We do not offer overhead storage or undercarriage baggage bays. Space is limited to your person and the area beneath your seat (if applicable).