Cargo bike Cycle to Work scheme

A bike can get you to work. A cargo bike can help you manage almost everything that needs to happen along the way, whether that’s a laptop, a uniform, a set of tools, or even a nursery drop off.

Through the cargo bike Cycle to Work scheme, eligible employees can save up to 47% on a new cargo bike, electric cargo bike, and qualifying cycling accessories. And, as it’s a salary sacrifice scheme, there’s nothing to pay upfront. Instead, you spread the cost through tax-efficient salary sacrifice payments from your wages.

Furthermore, Cyclescheme is free to set up and simple to manage for employers. It can also support employee wellbeing, reduce the cost of commuting, and give more people a sustainable alternative to driving.

And with more than 2,600 participating bike shops, online retailers, and brand-direct partners, you’ll have plenty of cargo bikes to choose from.

What is a cargo bike?

A cargo bike is designed to carry more than a standard bicycle. It has a reinforced frame and a dedicated area for passengers, carrier bags, equipment, or other everyday loads.

Some cargo bikes place the carrying area behind the rider. These are often known as longtail bikes. Others have a large box or platform at the front, making it easier to see children or cargo while you ride.

You can also choose between two-wheeled and three-wheeled designs. Two-wheelers can feel closer to riding a conventional bike, while three-wheelers may offer more stability when stopped or travelling at lower speeds.

Additionally, electric cargo bikes add pedal assistance, helping you move heavier loads, climb hills, and cover longer distances with less effort. Overall, the best option depends on what you need to carry, where you’ll store the bike, and the roads or cycle routes you’ll use most often.

Can you get a cargo bike through the Cycle to Work scheme?

Yes, eligible employees can use Cyclescheme to get a cargo bike or electric cargo bike through their employer. The bike should mainly be used for qualifying work journeys, such as travelling to work or cycling between workplaces. However, that doesn’t mean you need to ride to work every day, as long as work travel remains your cargo bike’s main purpose.

Your employer will set the maximum amount you can request through the scheme, so check the available limit before going ahead and choosing your bike and any accessories you might need.

How much can you save with a cargo bike Cycle to Work scheme?

Cargo bikes can cost more than conventional commuter bikes because they’re built to carry heavier loads and may include electric assistance. The Cyclescheme cargo bike Cycle to Work scheme can make that cost easier to manage.

Eligible employees can save up to 47% on cargo bikes and accessories, depending on their salary, tax band, and personal circumstances. You won’t need to pay the full cost upfront either. Payments are taken from your gross salary over the agreed repayment period, before Income Tax and National Insurance deductions.

That means you pay less overall while spreading the cost into manageable monthly payments. Use the Cyclescheme calculator to see what your estimated savings could look like before you apply.

Why choose an electric cargo bike?

Cargo bikes are designed to carry more. Naturally, that also means they can feel heavier than a standard bicycle. That’s why an electric cargo bike can be especially useful, as it gives you assistance while you pedal, making it easier to start moving, climb hills, and keep going when the bike is loaded.

That can also be useful when you’re carrying children, work equipment, or any other items you can’t carry on a traditional bike. Additionally, it may also make cycling feel more achievable if you have a longer commute, haven’t ridden for a while, or don’t want to arrive at work feeling exhausted.

You’ll still pedal and stay active. The motor simply gives you an extra push when you need it. Battery range varies according to the model, terrain, weather, assistance setting, and weight carried, so make sure you consider your regular journeys to help you choose your ideal electric cargo bike.

What can you use a cargo bike for?

A cargo bike can help you combine your commute with the journeys and responsibilities that happen around it. You could use yours to:

• Carry a laptop, uniform, tools, or other work equipment
• Transport children using approved passenger seats and restraints
• Pick up shopping on the way home
• Take sports gear, bags, or larger personal items with you

You don’t have to use the bike exclusively for work. As mentioned, personal journeys are allowed too, as long as the main purpose of the bike and equipment remains commuting or travelling between workplaces.

That makes a cargo bike more than just a way to get to work for many people. It becomes a practical replacement for some of the shorter journeys normally made by car.

Cargo bike benefits for employees

A cargo bike gives you more freedom to shape your commute around your life.

It’s easier to combine journeys

Instead of cycling home before collecting the children or switching to the car because you need to carry something, you can complete several journeys in one trip.

It saves money on travel

You could spend less on fuel, parking, and public transport. You may also avoid some of the delays caused by congestion or unreliable travel services.

It makes exercise convenient

Cycling helps you build movement into your day without finding extra time for exercise. And with an electric cargo bike, you can choose how much support you need rather than treating every journey like a workout.

It’s flexible

Cycling to work doesn’t need to be an all-or-nothing commitment. You might ride a few times a week, combine cycling with another form of transport, or use the cargo bike when it makes the most sense. The aim isn’t to make every journey by bike, but to make more journeys possible.

Why employers should offer a cargo bike Cycle to Work scheme

Offering a cycle to work scheme with cargo bikes included also has a range of benefits for employers.

It has wide appeal

A standard commuter bike won’t suit every employee, as different people have different needs when it comes to travelling. That’s why offering a cargo bike Cycle to Work scheme makes your benefit more useful to a wider workforce.

It’s free to join and cost-effective

Cyclescheme is completely free for employers to set up. There are no subscription charges or hidden fees, and the cost of each package is recovered through the employee’s salary sacrifice payments. Your organisation can also generate Employer National Insurance savings on eligible salary sacrifice transactions.

It’s easy to manage

Cycescheme manages the application platform, eCertificates, and end-of-hire ownership. You approve requests and apply payroll deductions, while the scheme handles much of the work around them. You’ll also get promotional resources to help employees understand the benefit and an employer dashboard that lets you monitor participation and savings.

It encourages sustainability

By helping employees make more journeys by bike, you can support your wellbeing, sustainable travel, and CSR and ESG goals at the same time.

How to get a cargo bike through Cyclescheme for employees

Getting started is simple with just a few steps.

1. Check that your employer offers Cyclescheme
   Search for your employer through Cyclescheme or ask your HR, payroll, or benefits team whether the scheme is available. Your employer will also confirm the maximum amount you can request.
2. Choose your cargo bike package
   Explore cargo bikes, electric cargo bikes, and eligible accessories through Cyclescheme’s network of more than 2,600 retailers. You can shop through independent bike shops, larger retailers, online suppliers, and participating brands.
3. Think about how you’ll use the bike
   Consider the passengers or equipment you’ll carry, the space available at home and work, and the length and terrain of your usual route.
4. Apply and get your eCertificate
   Once you know how much you want to spend, submit your application. Your employer will check your eligibility, approve the request, and pay for the package. You’ll then get a Cyclescheme eCertificate to use with your chosen retailer.
5. Collect your cargo bike
   After that, you can collect your cargo bike and start making salary sacrifice payments from your wages.