How to Select a Charter Bus Company
For many when chartering a Bus or Motor Coach, price is the overwhelming factor in that decision. At IMG we actively encourage you to look beyond the price and understand the charter bus company you are working with and their commitment to your client’s safety.
IMG motorcoach operators, invest hundreds of thousands of dollars into motorcoach maintenance facilities, training, preventative education and customer service – those unseen commitments that should come into consideration before you charter your next vehicle.
While price is important, the cost of service should include the confidence that safety, driver competence, vehicle integrity, cleanliness, and customer service expectations can and will be met. IMG is confident that its member operators can satisfy all your important questions.
Regardless, when contracting services, ask the following questions of a perspective contracting charter bus company:
The Charter Bus Company
How long has the charter bus rental company been in business?
An established charter bus rental company has a reputation. A fledgling charter bus rental company is untested. Ask for proof of federal, state and or provincial operating authority.
How big is the charter bus company?
Big is not necessarily beautiful, but those desiring to charter motor coaches should be aware that small businesses may not have the full range of technical and management support necessary to provide “world class” service.
The Charter Vehicles
How old are the charter coaches?
The charter vehicle’s age may be important to you. Remember, however, that modern coaches have a long life and general presentation, cleanliness, and mechanical condition may be more important than actual age.
What type of charter coach vehicle is best?
The length and purpose of the journey and any special passenger needs dictates the type of vehicle. Rate the importance to your passengers of things like bathrooms, catering facilities, TV, video, reclining seats, window shades, curtains, air conditioning, wheelchair lifts, etc. Ensure that your requirements are included in the charter price.
Does the charter coach operator offer a range of vehicles?
Your passenger numbers may change, so learn whether the company offers vehicles in a range of sizes that may be substituted (should your needs require).
What about charter bus safety?
Ask about safety features – antilock braking systems (ABS). Does the company comply with coach drivers’ hours regulations, compiled to avoid risks caused by fatigue. A lax attitude could prejudice the safety of your passengers. Ask to see Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection ratings. NEVER contract with a carrier having an unsatisfactory rating.
Any special requirements?
What if I need to change route or times? Check that the company is able to meet any unforeseen eventualities, within the constraints of safety limits. How does this affect price?
Any special needs?
If your group includes the very young, elderly, or people with disabilities, can the company provide appropriate vehicles and arrange stops at places where their needs can be met?
The Staff
What are the standards of staff training?
Drivers should be competent in vehicle handling, people handling, and licensed. Ask to see verification. Further, ask about company policy in training drivers in essential customer care. Uniformed drivers and counter - staff speak volumes about company attitudes and standards.
What about unseen staff?
The competence of maintenance staff and their working facilities directly affects the reliability and safety of vehicles. Ask searching questions.
Does the company have a drug / alcohol testing program?
DO NOT contract with any operator unable to provide evidence that they possess and enforce drug and alcohol testing programs.
Who pays for the drivers accommodations?
Avoid any confrontation during or after chartering a coach by establishing at the outset who is booking and paying for drivers’ accommodations.
The Back Up
Can they deal with emergencies?
Even the best maintained vehicles develop faults. Vehicles can be damaged.
What systems are in place to avoid unacceptable delays?
Members of the International Motor Coach Group are a confederation of the most experienced charter bus rental operators, committed to providing mutual aid to fellow members (including vehicle repair / replacement and operator assistance) in order to minimize any disruption and inconvenience to our customers
Check It Out
If in doubt ask: "Can I look around your premises and vehicles?"
Reputable motor coach carriers are proud of their products, services and facilities - they have nothing to hide. Look at the operating and maintenance facility to generate the confidence of contracting with the carrier able to meet your needs.
What about References?
Avoid any company that will not identify customers for reference purposes.
Is insurance coverage in place and valid licenses held?
Ask for evidence of adequate coverage (including liability coverage of at least $5 million); that the company is inspected by the federal, state and/or provincial Department of Transportation; has documented operating authority; that checks are made to ensure that drivers continue to be licensed to drive this class of vehicle.
Look for the IMG Certified Logo!
Charter a coach with a member of the International Motor Coach Group (IMG) and you can be assured that they will meet your most stringent criteria.
To insure your satisfaction and safety, before chartering a coach check to make sure that an IMG Certified Member logo is located on the vehicle!
