Each group has certain requirements, and keeping this in mind helps to ensure everyone's satisfaction. Here's a list of questions to consider before you contact our sales staff:
- What type and size vehicle will you need?
- How many people will be traveling?
- What level of luxury or additional equipment will you need or desire?
- What is your travel itinerary?
- Who will be your contact for your group's charter needs?
- Will special accommodations need to be made for the driver on overnight trips?
- Will more than one driver be needed because of the length of the trip?
- Which is more important: luxury or price?
Several Tips to Bear in Mind Before Signing a Contract
Not all charter companies are the same and therefore other factors need to be considered in addition to price. To help you get all the service and reliability you want and need, we offer these tips for better chartering. We hope that they will help you prepare better quote request and keep your groups safe, comfortable, and satisfied:
- Does your group have any special needs that must be met?
- Clearly spell out your schedule and what is involved in detail.
Be sure the company knows what hours the driver must be available to the group, and if the driver must stay at the same hotel (for overnight trips).
- Who pays for the driver's hotel room?
Find out if the driver's room is included in the cost of the charter, or if you are responsible for it.
- Does the company have a drug-screening program in place?
Specify that your carrier supply a copy of their written drug policy and drug-testing program. Never charter from a carrier that does not strongly enforce a drug-free workplace.
- Are video-equipped motorcoaches available?
Video-equipped coaches can be a genuine asset. You can view educational videos or provide movies to help pass the hours. Sports teams can even view game videos; a great way to see your opponent, or review your own performance.
- Is the company adhering to Department of Transportation driver regulations?
The DOT limits drivers to 10 hours of continuous service. If your itinerary requires more than the limit, ask how the charter company is going to handle it.
- Find out when the company was established, and how long it has been offering charter motorcoach services. A good track record is always desirable.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance.
Your carrier should supply a Certificate of Insurance. This certificate shows the carrier's levels of insurance and effective policy dates.
- Ask the company's procedures for on-the-road emergencies.
The operator should have access to a nationwide reciprocal maintenance agreement which will assure you of prompt servicing of equipment in all regions of the USA.
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