The more details you discuss in advance with your potential carpool partner the more successful your arrangement will be. Use the following list as a guide:

• Decide how often you'll carpool. Some commuters prefer every day while others can only manage one or two days a week.
• Arrange a convenient pick-up and drop-off point. Most commuters prefer this to be their home, but for others a Park-N-Ride lot may work better. See a list of Park-N-Rides lots at www.commutesmart.info/lotslaneslinks/index.asp
• Discuss how driving duties will be shared. You could alternate days or weeks, or one person may prefer to do all the driving.
• How long will you wait for a carpool partner who is running late? Five minutes past the agreed upon time is typical.
• Decide on an advance notice policy if previously made arrangements are to change. Be as considerate as possible.
• Other preferences should also be discussed in advance. Subjects such as smoking, eating, radio preferences, etc, should be decided on before they become a problem.
• Do not run personal errands with your carpooler. Make sure you have enough gas and don't make other unscheduled stops.
• If you're uncertain about carpooling, arrange a trial period in advance. This will allow you to gracefully bow-out if the situation is not to your liking.
  

As with any other personal relationship, communication and flexibility are key to a good carpooling arrangement. With a minimal amount of effort, all the benefits of carpooling can be yours!