What does Blocking Fee mean?

Explanation

A blocking fee is the same concept as an idle fee, just under a different name. When your car finishes charging and remains plugged in, occupying a charger that other drivers could use, the network charges you per minute until you unplug and move. Different networks use different names: idle fee, blocking fee, overstay fee, or occupancy fee.

The fee is meant to discourage charger hogging, which is a genuine problem at busy charging locations. When all stalls are occupied by fully-charged cars whose drivers are still shopping or eating, arriving drivers have to wait unnecessarily.

To avoid blocking fees, set your charge limit appropriately and return to your car before charging completes. Most charging apps send push notifications when your session is about to finish or has finished. Some cars can also send notifications through their own apps. A good habit is to set a timer on your phone for a few minutes less than your expected charging time.

Based on data from European Alternative Fuels Observatory.

Where you'll see this

• On the charger screen
• In charging network apps
• On your charging receipt

Common confusion

Some drivers think blocking fees start as soon as the car reaches 100%. Most networks give a grace period of 5-15 minutes before the fee kicks in.

Example

Related terms