If there is one thing consumers learn the hard way in the limousine business, it is that the least expensive option is by all means not the most reliable and efficient. As a meeting planner, who wants to take a chance on having your CEO or President missed at the airport and late for that important meeting? As a general consumer, well, no one wants to be late for their own wedding or frustrated by not having any transportation arrive for that special event.
Typically most chauffeured limousine needs are either for "Special Occasion Service" or "Corporate or Group Move Transportation", and there are companies that specialize in each. There are, however, some common standards that any service provider should meet before you retain their services. Here are some tips you should keep in mind as you choose your limousine service provider:
NLA MEMBERSHIP
Members of the National Limousine Association agree to abide by a Code of Ethics which emphasizes professional conduct and fidelity to the interests of the client. An NLA member is serious enough about their business to voluntarily make an investment of money and time in their industry, and have access to seminars and reference materials to further their ongoing professional education.
LIVERY INSURANCE
Operators should be eager to provide proof of valid, current insurance coverage for their fleet. You should get a copy of their certificate of insurance, and if you plan on using them over an extended period of time, it is wise to have their insurance provider add you as a "named insured."
CHAUFFEUR TRAINING
A professional chauffeur is easily as important to the success of your event as a nice vehicle. Quality limousine services have an official training program for their chauffeurs.
VEHICLE & COMPANY INSPECTION
Everyone is beautiful over the phone. If you haven't used a provider before and time allows, always visit the company in person before hiring them. The time to find out what you are getting is not when the vehicle shows up, when you have no choice but to accept a poor product.
CHECK REFERENCES
On the whole, the limousine business has a high degree of turnover. Whether a provider has been in business for 3 years or 20, he/she should be pleased to share letters of reference from the important customers the company has successfully serviced over the years. |