If you are picking up someone from Gatwick Airport, you may ask: what is the Gatwick pick up charge? In 2025, this charge and its rules matter. This guide will explain gatwick pick up charge, gatwick airport pick up charge, gatwick pick up charge south terminal, and how to avoid fines.
We also link you to useful airport transfer services like our Gatwick Airport Taxi, Heathrow Taxi, Manchester Airport Taxi and Stansted Airport Taxi.
What Does the Gatwick Pick Up Charge Mean?
Gatwick Airport does not allow free waiting in the forecourt near the terminal for pickups. Instead, you use the Short Stay car parks or express pick-up areas. These are charged at the same standard short stay roll-up rates.
So the gatwick pick up charge means you pay for the time your vehicle is in the pick-up zone or Short Stay car park.
Pay Gatwick Pick Up Charge & Pay Gatwick Pick Up Charge Online Free?
You can pay the gatwick pick up charge via the airport’s online portal or at pay-stations in parking areas.
There is no truly free online option. But you can avoid the charge by using the Long Stay car parks (you can park up to two hours free) and taking a shuttle bus to the terminal.
Gatwick Airport Pick Up Charge: Rates & Where to Pick Up
- The gatwick airport pick up charge uses the Short Stay car parks or express pick-up bays.
- For South Terminal, the express pick-up area is in Car Park 3, ground floor.
- Express pick-up is for staying in the vehicle. You cannot leave your car unattended.
If you want a smoother ride to or from Gatwick, book our dedicated Gatwick Airport Taxi service now.
Gatwick Pick Up Charge South Terminal & South Terminal Pick-Up Point
At Gatwick pick up charge south terminal, the express pick-up zone lies in Short Stay Car Park 3 (Ground Floor).
You must remain with your vehicle; do not leave it. The pay rate is the Short Stay tariff.
How Long Can You Wait at Airport Pickup?
You can wait up to the limit where the Short Stay car park rate applies. For example, Short Stay rates often cover up to 30 minutes, 1 hour, etc.
If you exceed that, extra charges apply. Also, drop-off zones have stricter limits (see below).
Is There a Pick-Up Point at Gatwick South Terminal?
Yes. The pick up point at Gatwick South Terminal is in the express pick-up area in Short Stay Car Park 3 on ground floor.
Is Gatwick Pick Up the Same Place as Drop-Off?
No. The pick up zones are in the Short Stay car parks (express pick-up). Meanwhile, drop-off occurs in forecourt drop-off zones directly outside terminals.
Drop-off zones have stricter time limits and charges.
What Is the Gatwick Arrivals & Customs Process?
Arrivals passengers come through immigration (if from non-UK) and baggage claim, then exit into the arrivals hall. Anyone picking them up must wait outside. For domestic flights, there is no customs.
You should confirm the flight has landed before arriving to pick up.
How to Avoid Drop-Off/Gatwick Pick Up Charges
- Use Long Stay car parks, which offer up to 2 hours free, with shuttle bus to terminals.
- Time your arrival close to flight landing to avoid waiting.
- Use official transfer/taxi services that include forecourt charges (so you don’t have surprising fees).
- Avoid stopping in drop-off lanes more than allowed time.
How to Pay the Drop-Off Charge at Heathrow (related)
At Heathrow, a drop-off charge is also in place. You can pay online or via ANPR system. Many airport transfer services include Heathrow drop-off charge in their fare.
Our Heathrow taxi service handles this for you. Check Taxi to Heathrow for more.
What Is the Fine for Not Paying Gatwick Charges?
If you don’t pay the gatwick pick up charge or drop-off charge, you might receive a Penalty Charge Notice. For drop-off, the fine can be £100, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.
FAQs
Is there a charge for picking up at Gatwick?
Yes. You must pay the pick-up charge via Short Stay or express pick-up area.
How to pick up from Gatwick for free?
Use Long Stay car park (free for up to 2 hours) and take the free shuttle to terminals.
How long can you wait at airport pickup?
As per Short Stay tariffs — a few minutes to up to an hour depending on rate.
Is there a pick up point at Gatwick South Terminal?
Yes. Short Stay Car Park 3, ground floor express pick-up.
Is Gatwick pick up the same place as drop-off?
No. Drop-off is a forecourt zone; pick-up is in Short Stay express bays.
What is the Gatwick arrivals customs process?
Domestic arrivals just exit. International arrivals go through immigration and then baggage.
How to avoid drop off fee at Gatwick?
Use Long Stay car park (up to 2 hrs free) instead of forecourt drop-off.
How to pay the drop off charge at Heathrow?
You pay online or via ANPR machine; many taxi services include it in fare.
What is the fine for not paying Gatwick charges?
A Penalty Charge Notice (e.g. £100, reduced to £60 if paid quickly).
Final Thoughts
The gatwick pick up charge is important if you drive to Gatwick to collect someone. Know where the gatwick airport pick up charge applies, especially at the south terminal. Use express pick-up or Short Stay, time your arrival, or opt for free Long Stay options.
If you want a hassle-free experience, use our airport transfer services. Book now via our Gatwick Airport Taxi, Taxi to Heathrow, Manchester Airport Taxi, or Stansted Airport Taxi.
Let us handle charges and logistics so you travel more relaxed.