How live arrival tracking works during a DropIn
See how matched members use live GPS, distance, approximate arrival time and optional external navigation to recognise each other and complete a handover.
What the map shows
The map places the confirmed parking pin and the matched vehicle positions in the same view. As the finder approaches, GPS updates can reduce the shown distance and arrival time.
The giver sees the finder coming, so they do not need to become anxious or repeatedly ask where the car is. The finder can identify the giver’s bay and selected vehicle before the final approach.
Arrival time is an estimate
When road routing is available, DropIn can use a road-following distance and travel estimate. Otherwise it uses a conservative GPS-distance estimate. Either can change with traffic, road access, car park circulation and delayed phone updates.
Treat the number as guidance, not a deadline. The giver should leave only when the matched car is visible and it is safe to move.
Using an external navigation app
The finder can choose Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze after acceptance. That opens the chosen navigation provider with the handover destination; DropIn records only the provider choice for aggregate analytics, not the route in that provider.
Return to DropIn before the final handover so both people can see the same live status and vehicle details.
If location updates pause
Background browser restrictions, low-power mode, poor reception or revoked permission may pause live updates. DropIn warns the member and provides a GPS refresh path without cancelling the active match.
If the position remains stale, communicate cautiously or end the handover rather than guessing where the other car is.
Questions about this guide
Is DropIn the same as turn-by-turn navigation?
No. DropIn focuses on the live handover. For detailed driving directions, the finder can open Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze.
Can the giver see how far away I am?
Yes, after acceptance the giver can see your live approach, distance and approximate arrival time.
Does live tracking continue forever?
No. It is limited to the active handover and ends when that journey is completed, cancelled, interrupted or expired.