Shanghai Metro Launched New, Free,  Expat-Friendly Service!

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As summer arrives, Shanghai's major tourist attractions and bustling streets have seen a surge in visitors. Tourists dragging suitcases are a common sight, leading many to wonder how to enjoy shopping without the hassle of carrying heavy bags.

In response to numerous suggestions from netizens, Shanghai Metro has announced a trial for a luggage storage service, offering a convenient solution for travelers.

Starting from July 27th until the end of August, 12 metro stations will pilot a self-service luggage storage service. During this trial period, luggage storage will be free of charge.

The first batch of 12 stations are located near transport hubs, commercial areas, and tourist attractions, including:

• Shanghai Railway Station

• People's Square

• South Shaanxi Road Station 

• Nanjing East Road Station

• Hongqiao Terminal 2

• Yuyuan Garden

• Dashijie (Great World) Station

• Lujiazui Station

• Site of the First CPC National Congress, Huangpi South Road Station

• Qufu Road Station

• Oriental Sports Center Station

• Longyang Road Station

In People's Square Station, three sets of storage lockers are installed near the accessible elevator on Line 1, opposite the customer service center on Line 8, and at the west end of the concourse on Line 2.

Each storage point comprises small, medium, and large lockers. Small lockers can hold items the size of a backpack, medium lockers can store a 20-inch suitcase, and large lockers can accommodate up to a 28-inch suitcase.

From July 27th to the end of August, the trial period offers free storage for up to 8 hours per session. To use the service, passengers must pay a refundable deposit of 20 yuan via the mini-programs. If luggage is stored for more than 8 hours or overnight, customer service will contact the passenger to handle the extra charges appropriately.

Passengers can use the service by scanning QR codes with WeChat or Alipay to access the "Xiao Iron" or "Fengchao" mini-programs. The process is straightforward, and users can check locker availability in real-time. 

Important Notes:

1. The first batch of 24 storage points across 12 metro stations are all located within fare zones. Passengers must pass security checks to access the storage service.

2. Luggage must meet metro security requirements, prohibiting the storage of flammable, explosive, toxic, and other restricted items.

3. The trial period offers a maximum of 8 hours of free storage. Passengers are advised to retrieve their items promptly.

4. The luggage storage service is available during the station's operational hours and does not extend beyond the last train of the day. Passengers should be aware of the first and last train times.

5. In case of emergencies, passengers can contact the service providers' 24-hour hotlines: "Xiao Iron" at 400-1020-932 or "Hive Box" at 95333.

6. Feedback is welcome via station on-site channels, the Shanghai Metro service hotline (021-64370000), or official social media platforms to help optimize the service.

Exciting News Ahead:

Post-trial, Shanghai Metro will evaluate the service and, starting in September, officially launch the luggage self-service storage with the following rates:

• Small lockers: 2 yuan per hour, max 12 yuan per 24 hours

• Medium lockers: 4 yuan per hour, max 24 yuan per 24 hours

• Large lockers: 5 yuan per hour, max 30 yuan per 24 hours

Enjoy your visit to Shanghai with this new convenient luggage storage service!

Source: 上观新闻

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