Booking a limousine is a luxurious way to get around, but some planning is required before you jump in. When thinking about arranging transportation for a group, there are a number of factors to consider. Read on for some of the most common questions about hiring a limo service in Scottsdale, Arizona.
1. How do I know if the service is reliable?
One of the best ways to know for sure that a limo service is reliable is to get a recommendation from a friend or family member. If someone you trust would recommend the service, then that is a pretty strong indicator of quality.
However, while word of mouth used to be the best way to vet a limo service, online reviews have changed the game. You can research limo services online, not only reading reviews on their websites, but also on third-party sites, like Yelp. Yelp is a website housing thousands of online reviews. It offers features like ratings and comments from past customers, a “highlights” section that features certain amenities or special qualifications the company has to offer, and even sometimes allows you a quick link to contact the company or book your ride.
Finally, a quick way to vet a limo service is by checking out the website or calling. If the customer service representative seems rude, disorganized, or otherwise unprepared, or if the website lacks crucial details about the service, it may be a red flag that the service is unreliable.
2. What type of vehicle is right for me?
Most limo services offer more types of vehicles than a typical stretch limo. Depending on the size of your party, the distance of your transportation, any luggage you may need to haul, and your party’s budget, your needs can vary as to which type of vehicle is right for you.
Some of the most common types of vehicles available include:
- Luxury sedans (standard four-door passenger vehicles)
- Stretch limousines seating 6, 10, or up to 18 passengers
- Vans seating 10-20 passengers
- Charter buses seating 30-60 passengers
- Minibuses seating around 30 passengers
- Party buses, containing nightclub-like amenities
When researching your limo service in Scottsdale, AZ, check the company’s website. It should contain a list of the types of vehicles available with an overview of the features available. Talk to a customer service representative from the limo service and ask if they can recommend a vehicle based on your size, budget, and transportation needs.
3. Is there a minimum time I must book the limo for?
Generally, limo services will require parties to book a limo for a minimum amount of time, such as two hours. The exception to this rule is when the limo is being reserved simply to reach a destination. For example, people commonly book vans to reach the airport. In these cases, the limo service will typically just charge the rate to reach the destination. On the other hand, sometimes people like to rent a limousine or party bus to celebrate an event, like a birthday party or a wedding. If the limousine driver is going to be driving a party around for an unspecified amount of time, there may be a minimum time. Check with the limo service before booking to determine if there is a time minimum that may apply to your booking.
4. What is the difference between a driver and a chauffeur?
One distinguishing factor to look for when hiring a limo service is whether the drivers are chauffeurs. There are countless paid drivers on the road, especially with rideshare services skyrocketing. However, these drivers are not trained professionals. Rather, they are simply individuals who have a drivers license and use their car to transport others. On the other hand, chauffeurs are professional drivers who typically work for a company that holds them accountable for maintaining standards of safety, cleanliness, and customer service. Also note that drivers who drive vehicles that carry more than 16 passengers must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License from the Arizona DOT. To obtain this license, the driver must pass additional road skills tests, knowledge tests, and medical screenings.
5. Is it appropriate to tip a limo driver?
For first timers, it may be unclear whether you are expected to tip a limousine driver. Like many other service professions, it is customary to tip the limo driver at the end of the trip. A standard tip would be 20% of the pre-tax total of the bill, but it is always encouraged to show the driver that you appreciated extra touches by increasing the tip. When booking, ask the limousine service company if the tip is included in the bill, as this is becoming a more standard practice.
6. How much does renting a limo cost?
The rate varies depending on the location, type of vehicle, length of trip, and any other amenities that may be included. The best way to estimate your fare is by contacting various limo services and getting a quote. In Scottsdale, you can expect a stretch limousine seating 12 passengers to cost about $100 per hour, plus any additional fees, taxes and tips. A larger vehicle, like a party bus, can cost in the $175-$250 per hour range, excluding add-ons. These numbers are not exact, so you should be sure to get a more accurate quote from the limousine service before booking.
7. Are limousines clean?
With COVID-19 and its variants still causing widespread illness, many patrons are concerned about staying safe while adjusting back into social settings. While it is largely safe for vaccinated people to go out on the town, most limousine services are still strictly sticking to COVID-19 precautions. The CDC recommends that limousine drivers wear face masks, avoid close contact with passengers, avoid using the recirculated air option, and disinfect the surfaces regularly. It is not advisable for elderly, immunocompromised, or unvaccinated individuals to attend events in crowds or enclosed spaces at this time.
8. Can you drink alcohol in a limousine?
Generally, Arizona prohibits passengers from drinking alcohol in a vehicle. The open container laws state that people cannot possess an alcohol beverage in a vehicle if it has a broken seal or if the contents have been partially removed. Limousines are unique, though. Arizona law has authorized the possession and consumption of alcohol in certain types of vehicles, including limousines. If a rider is safely in the passenger area of a limousine, they are permitted to drink alcohol. This makes a limousine or party bus a perfect method of transportation for celebratory events so none of the patrons need to worry about being a designated driver or finding transportation home.
Contact Us with Questions About Hiring a Scottsdale, AZ Limo Service
If you are considering hiring a limo service, chances are you have an important event or milestone coming up. Whether it is a birthday party, wedding, prom, or an important work event, make sure you get the limo service that is right for you by asking the most important questions. How many guests are you expecting? What is your budget? Is the vehicle appropriate for the occasion? Choose the right service for you so you can relax and enjoy your trip.