How to Use Shared Bike Services in China (Such as Meituan Bikes, Halu Bikes)?

1. Registration and Usage Process

Step One: Download the Relevant App or Use Mini Programs
- Meituan Bikes: You need to download the "Meituan" app (the international version is "Meituan"), or directly search for the "Meituan Bikes" mini program in WeChat/Alipay.
- Halu Bikes (HelloRide): You need to download the "Halu Travel" app (the international version is "HelloRide"), or search for "Halu Travel" mini program in Alipay.
- Didi Qingju Bikes: You need to download the "Didi Chuxing" app, or use it through WeChat/Alipay mini programs.

Step Two: Register an Account
- Do you need a local phone number?
- Some platforms support international phone numbers: For example, Halu Travel and Meituan Bikes can be registered via "+ country code + phone number" (you must ensure that you can receive SMS verification codes).
- Binding International Credit Cards with Alipay/WeChat Pay: If you have already bound Alipay or WeChat Pay, you can directly scan the QR code via the mini program without additional registration.

Step Three: Real-name Authentication
- According to Chinese regulations, some platforms require real-name authentication (upload passport information or bind Alipay/WeChat Pay real-name account).

2. Unlocking and Riding

• Scan Code to Unlock: After finding a bike, open the app or mini program and scan the QR code on the lock/body of the bike to unlock automatically.
• Manually Input License Plate Number: If the QR code is damaged, you can input the frame number in the app to unlock.

3. Fees and Payment Methods

• Charging Standards: Usually 1.5-2 RMB per 30 minutes (varies by city and platform).
• Payment Methods:
• Alipay/WeChat Pay: Supports binding Visa, Mastercard, etc., international credit cards (you need to activate the foreign card payment function in advance).
• Prepaid Deposit: Some platforms require a deposit of 99-299 RMB (refundable), but through Alipay "Sesame Credit" or WeChat Pay Score, you can avoid the deposit (some cities have restrictions for international users).

4. Precautions

• Parking Rules: Must park in designated areas (marked on the map inside the app), otherwise you may incur relocation fees (5-20 RMB).
• Vehicle Inspection: Before riding, confirm that the brakes, tires, and locks are working properly to avoid faulty bikes.
• Network Requirements: Keep your mobile network connected (it is recommended to purchase a local data card or activate international roaming).
• Privacy Protection: Avoid using public Wi-Fi during payment steps.

5. Common Questions and Answers

• Q: Can I use it without a Chinese phone number?
  A: Yes, you can use Alipay/WeChat mini programs to directly scan the code (need to bind foreign card payment), or register using an international phone number.
• Q: Do I need ID documents?
  A: Real-name authentication requires passport information, but users who have completed real-name authentication with Alipay/WeChat can skip this step.
• Q: How do I contact customer service?
  A: The app provides online customer service (some support English), or call the customer service hotline (such as Halu Travel: +86 400-091-5857).

Summary

• Recommended Solution: Prioritize using Alipay/WeChat mini programs to scan and ride (no need to download the app, more convenient payments).
• Alternative Solution: If frequent use is needed, download the app and bind your international phone number and payment method.