How it works
Admins manage policies from the Controls tab in the Engine dashboard’s left-hand navigation. Rules can include lodging rate caps and star-rating floors, flight cost and cabin-class limits, and daily rental-car caps. Engine identifies out-of-policy options in the booking flow and can block the booking, require a reason, or require approval.
Who it is for and how to use it
It is for companies that want controls applied before a booking completes. An admin creates policies, sets thresholds, picks an enforcement mode, and assigns each policy to all members, individual members, or selected departments. Use Allowed with Reason when exceptions need visibility, Allowed with Approval when a decision is required, and Not Allowed for hard blocks.
Policy enforcement vs. post-trip review
| Dimension | Post-trip review | Engine Travel Policy Enforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Exceptions found after spend occurs | Rules checked during search, selection, and checkout |
| Exception handling | Manual follow-up | Block, require a reason, or require approval |
| Assignment | Policy document shared broadly | Policies can be assigned to all members, individual members, or departments |
FAQ
What are the three enforcement modes?
Not Allowed, Allowed with Reason, and Allowed with Approval.
Which lodging rules are supported?
Supported lodging rules include flat or tiered nightly rate caps, location-based rate limits, refundability requirements, Direct Bill settings, minimum search radius, and a star-rating floor.
Can policies vary by department?
Yes. Policies can be assigned to all members, individual members, or selected departments.
Can a policy require refundable hotel bookings?
Yes. Admins can require refundable lodging options, although same-day reservations may still require a non-refundable room.
Can a policy control how travelers pay?
Yes. Direct Bill can be required, optional, or blocked for lodging, flights, and rental cars. Lodging policies can separately control Direct Bill for incidentals.
Further reading
Try Travel Policy Enforcement on Engine.
Free to use. No contracts.