choosing a ride
Select the limo type
The first question you must ask yourself is what kind of limo you would be comfortable riding in. Would you prefer a standard limo or a luxury limo? Would a simple town car do or would you prefer a stretch limo?Then, remember that there are many different types of limousine models out there. SUV and Hummer limos are quite popular, but you can also find customized Corvettes or monster trucks. It all depends on your preference.
Select the size
When selecting a limo, you must consider the seating capacity. You want to have enough room for everybody in your party and you want them to be comfortably seated. Don't be afraid to try out the seats before renting it.Look into features
A limo is not just a car; it's an experience. Consequently, make sure that it has the features you want, such as television, VCR, DVD player, telephone, sound system, sunroof, or even a Jacuzzi.Ask about alcohol
Having a drink in a limo is a great experience, especially if you're in good company. When choosing a ride, ask if booze is included in the price and make sure that clean glasses and ice are at your disposal.Take care of special needs
You want all your guests to be as comfortable as possible, so if you have special needs like child seats or handicap access, take care of them beforehand.Ask about pets
You're probably not renting a limo for a Tijuana donkey act, but some of your guests may be interested in bringing along their canine friends. It would be rather embarrassing if they were turned away at the last minute because pets aren't allowed in the car. It's in your best interests to know about the company's pet policy prior to booking.Look into reputability
You want to ride in style, not be taken for a ride. Therefore, it's in your best interest to check out the company's status to make certain they have a license, insurance, and a government permit to operate such a business. In California for instance, car services need to be sanctioned by the Public Utilities Commission to operate.You can also ask if the company is a member of an industry association such as the National Limousine Association. In addition, contact your local Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been lodged against the limo service. You are entitled to the best, so there's no excuse for not getting it.
Ask for confirmation
Before the scheduled event, contact the car service and confirm the exact vehicle you're getting. Ensure it's the same make, model, year, and color you previously agreed on.After all, you don't want to be stuck with a pink pimpmobile or a minivan on the day of the wedding, do you? The best solution is to ask for a written confirmation from the company upon booking.
money talks
Know about pricing
Limousine rentals generally cost between $50 and $150 per hour, and there's usually a three-hour minimum; a one-hour service is practically unheard of in the industry because the company has to pay for travel times, vehicle preparation, and the chauffeur's salary.Remember that the lowest priced limo may not be the best solution. After all, you are renting it for a special occasion, and you don't want to incur any unnecessary problems. Dealing with a cheap company might mean an old or unkempt car, or employees who are less than consummate professionals.
Inquire about a flat rate
As previously stated, most companies operate on the basis of an hourly rate. For the busy months, such as prom season, they may even require a minimum six-hour booking. It's to your advantage to look into the possibility of paying a flat rate.Ask about discounts
Do they have special prices for weekends, weekdays or the low season? Can you book through your company and get a corporate rate? Ask if they have special packages for occasions such as birthdays, weddings and bachelor parties.Book through a third party
Doing your homework can sometimes reap benefits. Look around and see if you can get a cheaper rate if you rent it at an airport or through a hotel.Ask about extras
When booking a limo, make sure to find out what is included in the price. We've already discussed alcohol, but what about the number of people or whether you'll be charged extra if you have more than one stop on the itinerary?Inquire about a security deposit
Anyone who entrusts you with an expensive piece of equipment is going to worry about it and this is why they may ask you for a security deposit. Ask them what that fee covers.Look into a late fee
Let's say you rented a limo to pick you up at the airport and your plane is late, will you be charged an additional fee? How long will the limo wait? These are questions that you must ask.Share the car and the costs
When you pay for a limo, they don't just charge you for the 30 minutes to and from your destination. You have to pay for the time in between, when the limo is parked and waiting for you to finish your party.See if you can get a discount for these idle hours. Some services offer the option of not paying while the car is waiting for you, if this period exceeds four hours, as they can use the limo to make other pickups.
general tips
Cancellation policy
Expect the unexpected. You may have to postpone your party. Inquire about the company's cancellation policy so that you're not stuck paying for a car you didn't use. Keep in mind that you'll likely lose your deposit if you cancel.Tipping policy
Upon booking, ask if they have a policy on tipping, if it's required or even forbidden. The amount you tip is always at your discretion, however, a minimum of $5 per person is acceptable. You can give a few dollars more if he helped you with your luggage or safely raced to your destination.Alcohol consumption
While a limo isn't exactly like a neighborhood bar, they do share some similar rules. For the service to keep their operating license, they cannot allow people under legal drinking age to imbibe alcohol while in the limo.Be the first guest
If the limo is picking up a group of people, make sure you're the first one aboard so that you can inspect the car and make sure that it meets expectations.Limo pickup spot
When renting a limo to pick you up at the airport, make sure that everybody's clear on where this pick up will happen so that you won't linger at the gate while the driver is waiting for you outside the terminal.Backup plan
The future is unpredictable and you never know when trouble is going to arise. When you least expect it, the car might break down or not even show up.In the event that the service can't send you a replacement vehicle, you should have a backup plan. Have the phone number of a competitor or taxi company on your person and pick up extra cash so that you won't be stranded.
luxury wheels
If you are diligent when renting a limo and are very careful to avoid any nasty surprises, there's no question you will have a great time. So wink to your lady friend, pour the bubbly and enjoy the ride!Resources:
http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUBLISHED/NEWS_RELEASE/15129.htm
http://www.usalimos.com/limousine-tips/
http://www.limos.com/info_limo_service_rental_tips.asp
http://www.disneyzone.net/tipping.htm
http://www.bbb.org/
http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/
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