Chauffeur Services

The use of a chauffeur service can become a key feature in the business lives of managers who are continually on the road. What better way to arrive at a business meeting than feeling refreshed and relaxed, instead of tired and distracted after driving through traffic jams, map reading and taking wrong turns?

But equally they can provide that special touch for guests attending a special occasion that you’re organising.

So the next time you have a client to impress or you simply want to spoil an employee or a loved one, why not give a chauffeur service a try?

Points to consider when making the booking include:

1. Are all drivers provided by the company background checked before they are employed? Do vehicles used by the company also receive background and safety checks? After all, safety is priority.
2. What guarantees do the company provide? Do they give a reduction in cost if the driver is late or unable to meet the full booking requirement at short notice?
3. How much notice do you need to give to cancel the booking, or make amendments to destinations or passengers?
4. If you’re booking the airport run, consider whether there will be enough space in the car for luggage and passengers. Consider the passenger comfort factor: would it be better to hire two cars if more than two people are travelling?
5. Do the company have a uniform or strict dress policy? There’s no point in having an expensive-looking car if the driver arrives wearing jeans and a scruffy appearance. Image is important.
6. Check what type of car you are actually booking. What extras are included – travelling in the summer may require air conditioning for comfort. If the journey is a long one, are any refreshments included? Are special occasion treats available, such as champagne? Some companies provide cars with laptop and telephone ports for use at an extra cost, helpful if your boss is constantly on the move and on the phone. What equipment does the driver have in the car to help him forecast problems with traffic?
7. Ask about insurance. Never book with a company whose vehicles are not insured for hire purposes.
8. If you are a lone female travelling, ask for a female driver. If none is available, get the car registration number or a description of the driver. Unlike taxis, chauffeur vehicles are unmarked, so your passenger knows who and what to look out for.
9. Always get a written quotation, booking confirmation and a full copy of the terms and conditions. Agree all rates in advance.
10. If you plan to use chauffeur services regularly, ask for a deal, such as a discount on each service or one airport run in 10 free. And if you’re planning a large event and want more than one vehicle, find out what sort of price they can offer you. There’s no harm in asking!

To find a chauffeur or limousine hire company in your area, visit: