subject: Hiring A Limo: The Considerations That Matter [print this page] Most people in the market to hire a limo are planning a special event of some kind. Whether that "event" is a wedding or simply picking an important client up from the airport, there is always the desire to make sure everything is just so. You wouldn't go through the trouble and expense of hiring a driver and a car if you wanted to make a bad impression. Unfortunately, this is exactly what many customers get when they hire a limousine. Why? Because they fail to do the proper research into the company they are using. As with any service-oriented issue, not every company is created equal. Here are some of the considerations that matter when shopping for the best service.
Price
Unless you have an unlimited budget, price is always going to be a factor when hiring a limo. It isn't a cheap extravagance, after all. For that money, you want to make sure you get a service that is well worth the cost. Don't just compare dollars to dollars, though. What one company offers for $100 may differ substantially from what the company across town offers for that same price. Ask detailed questions when calling around for price quotes. Make sure you're comparing apples to apples, in other words. Inquire about specials and discounts. Ask them if there are any special times that you can rent for less.
Style
Most people have a rather specific idea of what they want in a limo. Make sure the company you're hiring has the same idea. If you want to pick a businessman up from the airport, a stretch Hummer may not be the ideal model to use. On the other hand, if you're planning a fun daytime wedding, a plain black limousine-while timelessly elegant-may not match up with the vibe you're going for. Most companies will have several styles and models to choose from. That said, there is no guarantee that the model you had in mind will be available on the date of your event. The earlier you can make your reservation, the better your chances of getting what you want.
Reputation
Every company is going to tell you that they're the best at what they do. Is it apparent in how they conduct themselves? Sometimes these claims are easily dismissible offhand, when no one answers the phone and the cars themselves look two steps away from the junkyard. Other times, it's more difficult to tell. Ask around and find out which limo companies in your area have the best reputation. It can keep you from making a big mistake.
