Minibus hire can be an incredibly cost-effective way to travel, transporting employees to and from work or ferrying friends to the airport on vacation. Before you embark on your journey, however, there are some things you need to know about minibus hire that will make your trip a lot more pleasant and relaxed.
Here are ten things you need to know before hiring a minibus
1. Minibuses are more expensive than cars
Some minibuses can cost up to £50- 200 per day, and that is per seat. It is no surprise then that hiring a minibus for your trip can be expensive. But there are some simple ways you can save money.
For example, if it’s only two of you travelling, consider sharing a double-seater minibus with another couple or group. This way, you can halve both costs and journey times! So use this technique while hiring a minibus hire in London.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
An honest, transparent relationship between you and your minibus provider is of paramount importance, and it starts with you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – the more you know about your minibus hire company.
What they provide, how they do business and whether they’re trustworthy, friendly and responsive, the more likely you are to form an effective working relationship.
3. Double check the itinerary for your trip
If your bus takes you out of town, there’s no excuse for getting lost or arriving late. Call and double-check all pickup times, destinations, and drop-off locations. Nothing will ruin a trip faster than showing up at your resort an hour late because you were waiting for your transportation to show up.
Make sure everyone knows where they’re going and when they need to be there. Additionally, ensure all addresses are written down in case you lose cell phone service on your trip!
4. Agree on pickup times
Make sure you and your group agree on specific pickup times. All of your guests must know where they need to be at what time so that you avoid delays and complications. Make sure everyone knows how long it will take them to reach your venue.
If some people are coming from very far away, like another city or state, make sure they know precisely how far away they are and how long it will take them to get there.
5. Be careful with entertainment systems
Some minibuses come equipped with entertainment systems, but remember that these large vehicles weigh hundreds of pounds more than cars. Every extra pound counts when you’re pulling into a parking space or turning on narrow roads. Make sure you know what comes with your vehicle and how it will affect your driving.
6. Check all fluids are filled up
One of your top priorities should be checking all fluids are filled up before you set off. While drivers have a legal obligation to check their vehicle’s levels, we can still advise customers on what fluids they should look out for.
If you’re looking for breakdown cover or roadside assistance, remember that most providers will not help if your vehicle is overfilled with fuel or oil.
7. A full tank of gas is cheaper than short journeys
If you’re only planning on travelling around 10 miles or less, driving your car is cheaper and more cost-effective. The logic is that since most minibuses only do about 35 miles per gallon (mpg), it will be more affordable for you to fill up your vehicle for that journey and use your transport, rather than paying for its fuel with minibus hire in London. Make sure you check before hiring, though!
8. Accidents happen, so make sure you have insurance in place
If your minibus hire company doesn’t have adequate insurance, you could be left with paying out of pocket for accidents that occur. Make sure you ask about their policy so you can protect yourself from financial disaster.
If they have no insurance or little coverage, go with another company. That might mean booking through an online travel agency, but if there’s a chance for something to go wrong on your trip, better safe than sorry.
9. Have an agreement regarding luggage on board
When participating in an activity involving minibus hire, luggage is restricted to one bag per person. This means that if you are travelling with others, try to keep your luggage as much as possible so as not to cause mishaps at customs or security.
10. Ensure the driver knows exactly where they are going
A minibus driver is just like any other professional chauffeur; they need to know precisely where they are going and how long it will take them to get there.
If you have not done so already, ask your minibus hire company for full details of their vehicles, including seat capacity and fuel efficiency. This information can be used when calculating costs. With a clear route, getting from A to B becomes much more accessible!
Also read: The UK Car Leasing Companies and How They Differ From Other Parts of The World
