How To Choose A New York Limousine Company

By Author: Shannon Lindsey
Total Articles: 223
Comment this article

Booking a limousine is not something one does every day. Here are some tips to help find a reputable company.

There are many limousine services in the Big Apple and it can be difficult to choose from among them. Here are the factors to be considered.

1. Does the limousine cover the desired area? Whether the limo ride is to a Broadway show, a Yankees game or to Atlantic City, the limousine company should know the area well, as well as the area where the party will be picked up.

2. Does the company have vehicles of an adequate size? It's one thing to drive a party of two to a night on the town. It's quite another to transport an entire wedding party or a whole high school gang. The limo company should have adequately sized vehicles to make everyone comfortable. This is especially important in formal occasions so that the glamorous gowns and extravagant hair styles don't get crushed.

3. Does the company listen? If a party specifies a Lincoln Town car, the group is looking for a traditional, classic look. It will probably not be as happy with a Hummer H2. On the other hand, prom goers are more likely ...
... to appreciate the club lighting of the Hummer H2 than the quieter Mercedes S500.

4. Are the limo company's policies clear? Is everything put in writing: including when deposits and final payments are due and what form of payment is acceptable? Is the limo's arrival and departure time clearly indicated? For prom goers, is the alcohol policy clear? Is there a list of fees and procedures in case something becomes damaged during the rental period?

5. Does the company have a friendly and professional staff? The customer service department should be easily accessible before, during and after the event. All questions and concerns should be quickly and professionally answered. The chauffeur should be friendly and professional.

To find a high quality New York limousine service, ask friends and family members. Ask them if the cars were clean and well maintained. Nothing puts a damper on a special evening quicker than car trouble. Ask them if the rates were competitive with other companies. Also ask if the driver was friendly, professional and familiar with the area.

In order to get top service from the chauffeur, it is important to give them an adequate tip. Limo companies are service jobs and passengers are expected to give a gratuity. A good tip ranges from 10 percent to 20 percent of the rental cost. Tip the driver at the end of each day of service. For example, if a limo is used for the rehearsal dinner and/or bachelor party, then the next day for the wedding, tip the driver both days. This is especially important as there may be different drivers each day.

Give the driver a larger tip if he or she offers additional help. This includes helping to get the bride over or around an especially large puddle or carrying in an especially large or awkward flower arrangement from the wedding to the reception. The driver also deserves a larger tip if he or she helps carry a lot of luggage to and/or from the airport.

Choosing a limousine company is important. The limo company can make or break an event. Be sure to choose a reputable company that will get the party where it needs to be in style.