Consumer Tips for Chartering a Motor coach
Choosing the right transportation company is a snap
when you use the convenient tips below to help guide you through the
selection process. The tips are split into three sections.
The Basics - top tips for the initial screening process
Meeting Your Needs - focuses on the specific needs of your
group
Safety Issues - problem areas usually left untouched ... until a
problem occurs!
By using these tips, you will
have taken the steps necessary to assure your group of a safe,
comfortable, and satisfying travel experience.
The Basics
How Long Has the
Company Been In Business?
Ask how long the company has been in business. Find out when the company
was established, and how long it has been offering charter coach service.
A long track record is generally desirable.
Does the Company
Operate its Own Maintenance Facility?
The company may have new equipment, but without proper maintenance, even
the best vehicles will have trouble. Ask about their provisions for
maintenance and bus servicing. (Where do they dump their chemical
toilets?)
What is their federal
DOT number?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) number is assigned by the US
Government and is required to operate legally when crossing state lines.
The DOT number can be used to check the carrier's safety rating (see next
tip).
What is their current
DOT Safety Rating?
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) issues safety ratings based on
the company's accident record and adherence to Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations. The highest possible rating is Satisfactory. Other
ratings include Conditional, Not Rated, or Unsatisfactory. You can verify
safety ratings by calling the DOT Safety Hotline at (800) 832-5660 or on
the web at http://www.safersys.org.
Never charter from a company with an unsatisfactory rating.
Can they supply 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.
Accepted levels of insurance call for $5 million combined, single-limit
liability coverage. You can verify that a carriers insurance is up to date
at the US DOT site website, http://www.safersys.org
Ask for References.
Request and contact references from similar groups traveling on similar
programs. Never charter from a company unwilling to provide references.
How Many Buses Do They
Operate?
Overall charter fleet size is important. It provides a gauge to the
operator's ability to a) supply alternate vehicles in case of a mechanical
problem, b) service multi-bus movements, and c) assure service on busy
weekends. Leeway Tours participates in a nationwide reciprocal
maintenance agreement to ensure prompt servicing of our equipment any
where in the United States. It also provides insight into the carrier's overall success in
business.
Is the Company Open
for Inspection?
You should inspect a carrier personally whenever possible. Inspect the
motor coach equipment, general offices and garage facilities. You can tell
a lot about a company just by looking. Our fleet is subject to random, on
the road inspections annually.
Can They Meet Your
Special Needs?
Remember to take into consideration any special needs you have, such as
beverage galley, card tables, video system, guide service, handicapped
accessible vehicle or other equipment.
