Limousine Tips
First Step
Determine the type of limousine, (standard stretch, super stretch SUV Hummer, Escalade, Rolls Royce etc.) desired color, the number of passengers to accommodate, etc.
What To Ask While most people assume that all companies are equal, most limousine company owners will tell you it's their level of professional service given to you by their driver, the cleanliness of their vehicles, their punctuality (timeliness), that most consumer's should concern themselves with. Unfortunately, most consumers concern themselves with the hourly rate FIRST and this is a typical mistake, since most times you get what you pay for!
When you hear a price that is much lower than other companies, be forwarned... it will probably mean the year, make and features of the limousine offered are older and over-used. So the word to the wise: Pay the extra $5-$15 more per hour for a FIRST CLASS vehicle and the professional service you can expect to get from a well trained driver. Besides, when you consider that a typical 3 hour minimum you're only talking about $60 on the high end to be certain you'll have a NEWER LIMO versus one that has gone beyond the 100,000 mi mark and the car looks like it too! It is recommended to actually visit the limousine rental company before you decide to rent so there will be no unexpected surprises.
Alcoholic Beverages - Yes or No? While some limousine companies offer bar or champagne service, (usually cheap brands at a higher prices) others will allow you to provide your own beverages. (In some areas though, alcoholic beverages are prohibited by law.) Although price is a consideration, a better price does not always mean the best limousine or the most reliable service.
Multiple VehicleDiscounts If renting more than one vehicle, i.e. a limousine, a bus, be sure to ask about discounts that may apply on the second vehicle. Many companies offer special discounted rates when multiple vehicles are used.
Murphy's Law Back Up Will the limousine company provide you with a live person to contact during your scheduled event should you require any assistance. If not, be certain to obtain a contact phone number of an operating manager in charge.
Additional Questions To Consider How long has the limousine company been in business? Do they have testimonials from past customers? How big is their limousines fleet? What types and colors of limousines are available on your specified date? What model year are their limousine vehicles? Do the vehicles have air conditioning and heat controlled from the passenger area?
Do they carry "commercial" liability and medical insurance for their
passengers?
(You may want to see their "certificate of insurance" when you rent.)
What is included in the cost? Some charge portal to portal which means that you pay for driving time to and from the limousine rental company to your designated location while other companies charge only from the time the limousine arrives at your location. Some limousine companies also offer extra services, i.e. red carpet rollout, champagne service etc.
How are the driver's dressed? Some limousine companies have a uniform standard while others do not. The appearance of the driver is as important as the appearance of the vehicle and you'll want to have your driver appearance professional and clean.
Is gratuity included in the rental cost? Some include the gratuity in the rental cost, some allow you to set the amount of the gratuity and others automatically tack on gratuity charges ranging from 10% to 20%
Are you able to have alcoholic beverages in the vehicle?
If renting for a wedding and want to display a "Just Married" sign, can it be attached to the vehicle? If so, does the company provide a standard sign or allow you to attach your own...and is there an extra cleaning or service charge for this?