1. References.
Request references from other groups that have traveled on similar tours.Never
work with a charter company who cannot provide references.
2. Do they follow driver regulations stipulated by the Department of Transportation
(DOT)?
The DOT limits drivers to 15 hours of continuous service, but only 10 of those
hours can be behind the wheel of a bus. If your itinerary requires more than
the limit, ask how they plan to handle it.
3. What is their Department
Of Transportation (DOT) Safety rating?
They should always have a "Satisfactory" rating from the DOT. This
is the highest rating issues by the DOT. Never use a company with an unsatisfactory
rating. You can call the Federal Highway Administration's Office of Motor
Carriers at 1-800-832-5660 to verify a carrier's safety rating.
4. How long have they
been in business?
When was the company started, and how long it has in business as a motorcoach
services. A good, long track record is always desirable.
5. Does the bus company use an independant third party to perform Driver background
investigations?
Buses By Bill’s Drivers are rigorously investigated by FC Background
Check (www.hrfirstcontact.com).
You may view your Driver’s background check on line by visiting www.workercheck.com
and entering your Drivers identification number. Ask your sales representative
for all the details.
6. Discuss your itinerary in explicit detail.
Be sure they know when the driver must be available to the group.
7. Can you drop
by and inspect the operation?
Buses by Bill welcomes you to come by and take
a look at our operations before signing any contracts or agreements.
8. Are video-equipped motorcoaches available?
Video-equipped coaches are a big plus. You can provide movies for your group's
viewing enjoyment or even review your perfomance. If a movie will be viewed
in the motorcoach, the motorcoach must be licensed to show movies. All
of our motorcoaches are licensed to view movies through "Motorcoach Movies".
9. Is the cost of the
driver's hotel room included in the pricing?
Find out if the driver's room is included in the cost of the charter.
10. What about extra mileage costs above the contracted amount?
Find out the carriers policy before the trip -- not when you get the bill!
