|
To ensure that you select the appropriate Limousine/transportation
provider for your airport transportation needs, please review the
following suggestions:
- Inquire about the number of years the limousine company has been
in business. Experience is a key factor. Companies that have been in
business for a number of years will most likely be more reliable and
provider better service than those with little or no experience.
- Inquire about the limousine company’s license and operating
authority. Limousine and transportation companies are required to
have Federal authority to operate their vehicles from the Department
of Transportation as well as local State operating authority.
Limousine Companies with such licenses are regulated and thus more
likely to provide the consumer with good service.
- Inquire about the Limousine Company’s Insurance. There are
unfortunately numerous companies around that do not carry the proper
commercial insurance coverage on their fleet to protect the consumer
in the event of an accident or other mishap. A reputable Limousine
Company will have the required commercial insurance coverage and
will have no problem providing you with a Certificate of Coverage,
if asked.
- Inquire about the Limousine Company’s affiliations with
reputable /organizations such as the Better Bussines Bureau, The
National Limousine Association as well as their local Livery
Association. Memberships with any of the above and other related
organizations is an indication that you are dealing with a
professional, reliable Company.
- Inquire about the year, make model of the Sedan, Limo or other
vehicles in the Company’s fleet. This will ensure that you do not
receive an old rundown vehicle show up at the airport. Be sure your
contract or confirmation contains the requested vehicle information.
- Many Limousine and Sedan Companies offer shared ride services.
This means that when you reserve a vehicle, you may be sharing it
with 1 or more other passengers. Be sure to instruct the Limousine
Company your preference with respect to private service or shared
ride service.
- Inquire about and specify the exact location your chauffeur will
meet you upon your arrival at the airport. Ask for the chauffeur to
carry a sign with the passenger’s name. This will eliminate
unnecessary confusion and waiting on your part.
- When obtaining the Limousine Company’s rates, be sure to check
if the rate you have been quoted includes gratuity, parking and
tolls. Standard gratuity is 15% to 20%, depending on the service
area. Some companies charge other additional fees for extra
passengers and extra stops. Be sure and clarify all additional
charges before making your selection so there are no surprises at
the end.
- Inquire whether the Limousine Company charges for the driver’s
waiting time. This could be substantial in the event your flight is
delayed. You should also inquire whether the Limousine Company
monitors flight statuses to track early or late flights. This is an
important factor for Companies that charge for driver’s waiting
time.
- Inquire about the Limousine Company’s cancellation policy. Most
companies require 24 hours notice for airport cancellations and will
charge you in the event of late cancellation.
- Obtain your Limousine Company’s toll free number and make sure
the Company offers 24 hour dispatch service in the event you miss
your flight, you are put on another flight or unable to locate your
chauffeur.
- Ask for references of present or past performances from the
Limousine Company you choose. Excellent references from reputable
corporate clientele will lessen the possibility of service problems.
|