Frequently Asked Questions
Answers for renters and vendors using Gear Relay.
Renters
How does Gear Relay work?
Browse by city, add gear to your quote cart, and submit. We confirm availability with local vendors, send a final quote, then invoice a 50% deposit. Vendors deliver and pick up on schedule.
Do you own the rental equipment?
No. Gear is listed by independent technicians and small businesses in your city. We run the marketplace, quotes, payments, and documentation.
Do I need an account to request a quote?
You can submit a quote without an account. When availability is confirmed, we create an account using your quote email so you can review and pay.
How do payments work?
- 50% deposit to reserve after you approve the quote.
- Remaining 50% due per invoice terms and no later than 30 days after delivery/pickup.
- Processed via Stripe/PayPal. Refunds go to the original method and usually post in 5–10 business days.
Do I need insurance or a deposit?
Yes. At invoice stage provide a COI naming the owner and Gear Relay as certificate holder/loss payee, or for rentals ≤ 5 days authorize a credit card hold for the full replacement value. If your card limit is insufficient, a COI is required.
Who delivers the equipment?
Vendors deliver and pick up. You or an authorized adult (18+) must be present to inspect and sign. Risk transfers at signature/hand-off.
What happens if equipment is damaged or stolen?
From hand-off to return, you’re financially responsible for loss, theft, or damage. Repairs or replacement are invoiced. Insurance or the deposit addresses this risk.
Can I pick up gear instead of delivery?
Some vendors allow pickup. If approved, location and window appear on your quote. ID and the payment card may be required at pickup.
Can I rent gear outside my city?
Start in your city. Some vendors list service areas and will deliver to nearby cities (e.g., San Antonio → Austin). Ask in your quote notes.
Do you offer onsite technical support?
Gear comes as rental-only by default. Many vendors offer setup or techs as add-ons. Request this in your quote and we’ll include it if available.
Why don’t you show prices?
Pricing varies by city, vendor, dates, delivery distance, and package size. Quote-first ensures accurate availability and logistics.
What’s your cancellation policy?
- > 5 days before start: deposit refunded minus processor fees.
- ≤ 5 days or no-show: deposit forfeited; no further balance due.
- Vendor can’t fulfill: full refund of what you paid.
Vendors
How do I list my gear?
Register on the Vendor Registration page. Send a CSV/XLSX or use the form. We map items to your city → category → subcategory.
Who handles delivery and pickup?
Vendors do. Obtain a Signed Delivery Confirmation with date, time, renter signature, and itemized list. Email a photo/scan to hello@gearrelay.com.
How are payments and payouts handled?
- Renter pays 50% to reserve; remaining 50% due per invoice terms (≤ 30 days after delivery).
- Payouts to vendors are sent within 7 days of the renter’s final payment clearing.
- Gear Relay service fee: 15% of rental subtotal.
What if my gear is damaged or not returned?
Renters are liable from hand-off to return. We require a COI or a full-value deposit (≤ 5-day rentals). For loss/theft, we facilitate documentation and chargebacks per policy.
We recommend owners carry their own equipment insurance for comprehensive protection.
How are vendors vetted?
We review submissions, quality, and completeness. Repeated late deliveries, quality issues, or policy violations can lead to removal.
Do vendors pay to list gear?
No listing fee at launch. Gear Relay earns a 15% service fee on completed rentals.
Can I deliver to nearby cities?
Yes. Add service areas (e.g., San Antonio → Austin). We keep browsing city-scoped but can note your delivery radius on quotes.