Limo Pointers

DO NOT BOOK THE CHEAPEST LIMO - When shopping for the best limo booking the cheapest does not mean that you have received the best deal out there. It is important to know that you pay for what you get so do not book based on price only

CHECK THE LIMO - if you are not physically able to go and see the limo ask a representative to email the pictures of what it is that you are getting. The reason for this is that you want to make sure that there is no interior or exterior damage prior to booking and that you do not end up with an old rusted limo. Also get the year make and model as well as amenities included, such as red carpet, champagne, decorations etc.

ASK ABOUT INSURANCE - Inquire about the limousine company's insurance. Many companies do not carry the proper commercial insurance coverage and as a result the consumer is not covered against accidents. Ask for a copy of the coverage certificate, a reputable company will not have a problem providing this.

NUMBER OF YEARS IN BUSINESS - finding out the numbers of years a company is in business could lead to the final decision in booking. This is because a company in business for many years will more likely provide better service and be reliable.

INQUIRE ABOUT THE CHAUFFEURS - Ask about the chauffeurs experience qualifications and licenses. You do not want to book a driver who is unfamiliar with the event destination. Also it is important to know if the drivers are screened properly so that you can feel safe in their care.

ASK FOR REFERENCES - Ask the company for customer references and past performance history. Asking for this information will give you the customer satisfaction in booking a company that has given credible service.

CHECK FOR REPORTED COMPLAINTS - This can be done by going to the Better Business Bureau at http://lookup.bbb.org/ and looking up the office location closest to you. Here you will be able to see whether there were any past complaints made on the company.

ASK FOR OPERATING LICENSE - Ask your desired companies if they are licensed to operate. If they are then they are required to carry both state and federal operating licenses.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIMOUSINES - When looking to book a limousine there are different types and sizes available. Here is a brief description of some commonly used sizes: 6 passenger, 8 passenger, 10 passenger, 12 passenger and so on. Pick the one that best fits the number of people involved as well as the type of event it will be used for.

CHECK FOR AFFILIATES AND MEMBERSHIPS - check to see whether the company is affiliated with a recognized association such as The National Limousine Association www.limo.org as well as their local Livery Association. Such memberships are an indication that the company abides by mandatory code of ethics which will result in service satisfaction.

ASK FOR A CONTRACT - The contract should contain the following: 1) date and time 2) location pickup and drop-off 3) price 4) type of vehicle (including, year, make model and color 4) payment and deposit 5) cancellation fees 6) percentage of gratuity and any other miscellaneous charges. Make sure to have a copy of this for your records.

DETAILED ITINERARY - Make sure that the company has a detailed copy of your itinerary. This should have times and instructions on where they will be going as well as names of those traveling in the vehicle.

MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM HOURS ALLOWED - Find out the company's minimum and maximum time for usage. Depending on the event type you will need to know how they calculate their time.

MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES - It is important to know about any extra charges that may be charged. These charges can include tax, toll, parking, fuel etc.

RATES - Make sure that the final rate quoted to you is written this will prevent any misunderstanding. Ask whether the driver's gratuity is included in the final quoted price, if not what percentage is added for the driver's gratuity.

OVERTIME - Be sure to inquire about overtime availability and charges. Depending on the event the company may double book the limos when it is not in use by you or maybe after your event is over. Be sure to specify exactly what you want in terms of time. Also ask the company if they charge overtime in increments of 15 minutes, 30 minutes or an hour. This way you can work something out based on your particular needs.