by ampmlimo, on Aug 26, 2014 9:07:08 AM
Movie Stars have been seen riding around in limos for years, but a limousine is for everyone, even you! Learn how to book a limo and get your friends and family together for the ride of a lifetime!
How to Book a Limousine
Getting the right limousine most of the time depends on the type of event, the number of passengers, the number of hours you’ll need it for and how far you are planning to go. The more details you can provide, the better the value and service you’ll receive for your occasion.
Tip #1
Consider the occasion
Different events may have different rates or special offers.
Typical Special Events are as follows: Weddings, Graduations, Birthday Parties, Stag/Stagette celebrations, or Anniversaries. Other common events are Wine Tours/Pub Crawls, Airport Transfers, Corporate Events, or Day Trips. Any other event or celebration you can think of is also limo worthy, just let the company know exactly what it is you are needing transportation service for!
Tip #2
How long do you need the limo and when
Estimate the approximate time period for which you want to hire the limo. Are you looking for an A to B transfer within the city? Or perhaps a 5-hour wedding package? Or maybe you are looking for a ride from the Airport to out of town.
However, you don't need a special day to book a stretch limo! Book a one hour cruise around town with the family or take a limo to a friend's house for fun! When looking for limousine and party bus quotes, be sure to let companies know the date you are looking to book for. Sometimes you can get off-season discount rates or special weekday pricing.
Tip #3
How many passengers and what type of vehicle
Determine the number of passengers you will have. This will also help you decide on the vehicle type as 20 passengers won't fit in the classic Lincoln Stretch Limousine. Check the fleet of the company and the variety of limos they offer. Ensure the vehicle you’re getting has seating capacity for your group as well as the features you are looking for.
When hiring a limousine, try to book a limo that has room for at least one to two more people than are in your party. Inquire about the sound system they have as well as what you will need to bring along to play your own music. Also, ask about features like the seating style and luggage capacity if you will need it for your group.
Tip #4
Concentrate on the value
The best service at the best price: Not all limousine services are equal. Never get carried away with low prices, as booking a low price limo could also come with a low-quality of service. It is good to have a budget determined ahead of time, but also know what type of experience you want and what you are willing to pay for.
Tip #5
Plan ahead of time
Think about all the details of your ride experience. Will you need drinks or ice? Do you have a preferred route for your ride? What are the stops you would like to make?
If you provide these details to your chosen limo service provider, then they will help meet your needs – for the right price.
Tip #6
Get the total price
Always make sure when comparing limo rental prices between companies that you are also comparing the same vehicle and service. Each limousine company generally has its own unique pricing policies. Most companies offer services priced by the hour – but may also offer flat/guaranteed rates for airport rides or they may have some all-inclusive packages.
Make sure to pay attention to “add-ons” like fuel surcharges or other services fees not included in the base price. FYI, it is customary to tip drivers 18-20% of the base price. Most limo companies automatically charge a gratuity, while some leave it to the customer to decide. It's a good idea to get the full price upfront when weighing your options.
Tip #7
Know the packages
A package is often the best choice for special occasions like weddings, graduations, sporting events or other ride types with a predictable start and end time. Packages will generally provide a set number of hours in a vehicle that fits your party size at an all-inclusive price. Some companies offer packages for every type of service and most give substantial “bulk rate” price breaks.
Tip #8
Make an early reservation
Making your reservation early is especially important for big events. Always reserve early! Start searching well before you need your limo service. For wedding limos, some people book 12-18 months in advance.
Other events, such as graduations, are best to book a few months in advance. In general, it is best to start looking 3-4 weeks before your event. After you’ve selected the right limo service provider, get a confirmation in writing or via email to ensure you have the correct date, time and vehicle reserved.
Tip #9
Listen to how a company speaks to you
Call various limo companies and listen to how each one deals with your phone call. It is important that the company is responsive to your requests so that you can feel confident that on the date of your booking, they will be there for you.
If you do a quick internet search for local limo companies, call or email each one and get quotes from all of them. Be sure to ask for rates including gratuity and taxes, as well as the cancellation policy and any associated fees. Also ask how much does a limo cost if you go over time, if you can add extra time on the day of service and what, if any, extras come with the limo.
Tip #10
Time to book
Book the vehicle with the company that you choose. Don't feel pressured to book with the "we only have one spot left" line. While that may be true... you don't want to book with the first company you call.
When you make your reservation, make sure to get a copy of the booking confirmation as well as their cancellation policy in writing/email. Make sure to confirm the price that will be charged to your credit card and when it will be charged.
Finally, enjoy your ride!
