Consumer Protection Tips
for Chartering a Motorcoach
Making the right choice for your group is essential! It is especially easy when you use this convenient guide to help you through the selection process. The guide is split into three sections. "Company Background" - essential information on the company that can be used as your initial screening guide. "Meeting Your Needs..." - focuses on the specific needs of your group. "Safety Issues..." - probes areas usually left untouched... until a problem occurs. By using the guide, you will have taken steps you assure your group of a safe, comfortable, and satisfying travel experience.
Company Background...
Tip #1) Ask how long the company has been in business.
Tip #2) Request the company's DOT number.
Tip #3) Ask about their DOT Safety Rating.
Tip #4) Request a Certificate of Insurance.
Tip #5) Ask for references.
Tip #6) Inquire about the size of their fleet.
Tip #7) Ask if the Company is available for inspection.
Tip #8) Inquire about the Maintenance Program for the motorcoaches.
Tip #9) Determine if the carrier is a full service company.
Meeting Your Needs...
Tip #10) Clearly spell out your schedule and what is involved in detail.
Tip #11) Ask if video coaches are available.
Tip #12) Be a careful shopper. Consider all factors.
Tip #13) Ask who pays for the driver's room.
Tip #14) Determine company policy for extra mileage costs above the contracted amount.
Tip #15) Ask if the coaches are equipped with a Cellular Phone.
Tip #16) Ask if the coaches have coach-to-coach communication.
Safety Issues...
Tip #17) Ask if the company adheres to Department of Transportation driver regulations.
Tip #18) Inquire about the company's procedures for on-the-road emergencies.
Tip #19) Ask if the Company has a formal Drug and Alcohol Program.
Tip #20) Request a list of qualified CDL drivers.
Would you like more information on the Tips above? Ask your sales representative to send you one of our Group Travel Packets.
Good Service Doesn't Just Happen
Operating a dependable service business requires organization, competent management and a substantial capital investment.
When reviewing the cost of our service, please remember...
1.) The driver's knowledge and skill. We hire only professional drivers, plus they are involved in continual driving and safety training.
2.) The necessary people who train, schedule, and route the coaches and drivers - dispatchers, safety director, on-call personnel and a professional office staff to handle every detail of each trip.
3.) Sizable investment in a state-of-the-art computerized office, a full-service maintenance facility and top-of-the-line motorcoaches, which represent nearly a half million dollar investment per coach for your comfort and safety.
4.) Quality Control. Our trips are randomly surveyed to ensure the quality of our service, our drivers and our equipment.
5.) State and National Affiliations, to help assure our customers that they are dealing with a reputable, dependable company. We are active members of: North Carolina Motorcoach Association (NCMA); National Tour Association (NTA); Internation Motorcoach Group (IMG); United Motorcoach Association (UMA); and such local organizations as the Greensboro Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greensboro Merchants Association.
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