Notification Distance
Configure how far away the vehicle should be when you receive approach notifications. This guide explains how to set the optimal notification distance for your situation.
What is Notification Distance?
Notification distance determines when you receive "approaching" alerts:
- When the bus/shuttle enters this distance from your stop
- You receive a notification to prepare
- Gives you time to get to the stop
Why Distance Matters
Choosing the right distance affects your experience:
| Distance | Result |
|---|---|
| Too short | Not enough time to prepare |
| Just right | Perfect timing to reach the stop |
| Too long | May wait too long at the stop |
Accessing Distance Settings
- Go to the Settings tab (gear icon)
- Tap Notification Distance Settings
- If you have multiple profiles:
- Select the profile to configure
- You'll see the distance options
Profile Selection
Like notification settings, distance is configured per profile:
Multiple Children
Each child can have a different distance:
- Younger child: Shorter distance (you walk them)
- Older child: Longer distance (they can wait independently)
Parent and Employee
Different situations may need different distances:
- School stop: May be close by
- Work pickup: May need more warning
Distance Options
Common distance options include:
| Distance | Good For |
|---|---|
| 250 meters | Stop is very close to you |
| 500 meters | Stop is nearby, minimal prep needed |
| 750 meters | Need a few minutes to get ready |
| 1 kilometer | Stop requires a short walk |
| 1.5 kilometers | Need more advance notice |
| 2 kilometers | Stop is far or you need significant prep time |
Note: Available distance options may vary based on your transportation provider's configuration.
How to Configure
Selecting Your Distance
- View the current distance setting
- Tap to change or select from available options
- Choose the distance that works for your situation
Saving Changes
- After selecting your preferred distance
- Tap the Save button
- Wait for confirmation: "Settings saved"
- Your new distance is now active
Factors to Consider
How Far is Your Stop?
If your stop is:
- At your door: Shorter distance (250-500m)
- Down the street: Medium distance (500m-1km)
- A few blocks away: Longer distance (1km+)
How Long to Get Ready?
Consider time needed to:
- Put on shoes and jacket
- Gather belongings
- Walk to the stop
- Buffer for unexpected delays
Traffic Conditions
In heavy traffic:
- Vehicle moves slower
- You have more time
- Shorter distance may work
In light traffic:
- Vehicle moves faster
- Less time to prepare
- Longer distance provides buffer
Your Personal Speed
Consider your walking pace:
- Fast walkers: Shorter distances work
- Slower pace: Need longer distances
- Mobility considerations: Allow extra time
Recommended Distances
For Parents
| Situation | Recommended Distance |
|---|---|
| Stop at your home | 500 meters |
| Stop nearby | 750 meters - 1 km |
| Stop requires walking | 1 - 1.5 km |
| Need significant prep | 1.5 - 2 km |
For Personnel/Employees
| Situation | Recommended Distance |
|---|---|
| Central pickup point | 500 - 750 meters |
| Stop requires transit | 1.5 - 2 km |
| Need to walk to stop | 1 - 1.5 km |
Understanding the Alert
When the vehicle enters your notification distance:
- GPS detects vehicle position
- Distance to your stop is calculated
- When threshold is crossed, alert is triggered
- You receive push notification and/or SMS
Real-World Timing
Distance doesn't equal time directly:
- 1 km at 30 km/h = ~2 minutes
- 1 km at 15 km/h = ~4 minutes (traffic)
- 1 km at 60 km/h = ~1 minute (highway)
Traffic and road conditions affect actual time.
Per-Profile Configuration
Each profile has its own distance setting:
Example: Two Children
- Child 1 (elementary): 500m (you accompany them)
- Child 2 (high school): 1km (they can wait independently)
Example: Parent and Employee
- School stop: 750m (close to home)
- Work stop: 1.5km (need time to reach collection point)
Adjusting Over Time
Don't hesitate to adjust your distance:
- Start with a moderate distance (750m - 1km)
- Use for a few days
- If too early/late, adjust accordingly
- Find your optimal setting
Signs You Need to Adjust
Distance too short:
- You're rushing to the stop
- You've missed the bus
- Not enough warning time
Distance too long:
- You wait at the stop too long
- Notification comes way before arrival
- Wasted time waiting
Troubleshooting
"Not receiving approach notifications"
- Verify notification type is enabled in Notification Settings
- Check the distance isn't set to an extreme value
- Confirm device notifications are allowed
"Notification comes too late"
- Increase your notification distance
- Check for accurate stop location in your registration
- GPS may have momentary delays
"Notification comes too early"
- Decrease your notification distance
- Traffic may be lighter than usual
- Find the right balance through adjustment
"Distance option I want isn't available"
- Options are set by your transportation provider
- Contact them if you need different options
- Use the closest available option
Next Steps:
- Notification Settings - Configure which notifications to receive
- Language Settings - Change app language
- Troubleshooting - Solve common issues