5 Easy Steps to Rent a Limo for Your Next Event
Want to rent a limo?
Did you know that renting a limo is a big business? The industry boasts $6 billion in annual revenue worldwide, with an annual growth rate of 2%. The U.S. alone hosts more than 74,000 limousine and taxi services.
Even when you finally narrow down your choice, you still have to rent the darn thing. If you’ve never done it before (or you’ve never done it correctly), don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
In the sections below, we outline how to rent a limo for your next big event. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you get it right. Read on to discover more.
1. Research, Research, Research
Unless you plan to hire someone you already know, you’ll have to do some investigation. Jump online and search for local limousine services. You may be surprised at the variety of options available.
First, take a look at their selection of vehicles available. Do they offer more than one type of limo? Pick the top three contenders based on their vehicle options.
Next, check out social media review on sites like Yelp. There are two factors here: number of reviews, overall rating. A five-star rating is good. A five-star rating with tons of reviews is fantastic.
You’ll be able to tell if a company is padding their profile with fake reviews. They’re often written by a single person, so you’ll find the same grammatical mistakes, word choices, etc.
After you review what’s available, build a short list of your favorites. We’ll narrow it down further in the next section.
2. Calculate Value
This next one is a little more nebulous. How do you find the value of a service? It’s part logic, part gut feeling.
Take a look at each company on your short list. Do they offer professional chauffeurs? Clean and well-maintained limos? Did you speak with the staff? Were they helpful and professional? Are they licensed and fully insured?
These costs may cost a little more, but safety is important. It’s worth the extra charge to know your friends and families are in good hands. This should help you narrow down your short list.
3. Rent a Limo with Style
Sometimes, hiring a limousine is less about getting a ride and more about making a statement.
If your goal is to cruise up and down Las Vegas Blvd or make a grand entrance at your wedding, you need the right vehicle. So, do you need a black car service or a stretch Humvee with pink flames and chrome hubcaps?
If your limo service doesn’t show photos of their limos online, ask to see them in person. Make sure to rent a limousine that has room enough for your party plus two more. If you go with their ratings, there’s a chance you’ll end up squished in the backseat.
4. Check Insurance and Permits
Anyone can advertise a limousine service, but only professionals carry the right paperwork. Before you sign anything, ask to see their licensing and insurance credentials. If you live in a major metropolitan area, like New York or Las Angeles, they may also need a slew of permits.
If you don’t know, check with your local DMV or city police.
5. Acquire a Signed Contract
If you’re headed to an important event, make sure to get a signed contract. Limo services are legally obligated to come through for you once that pen hits the paper.
What’s Next?
After you rent a limo for your special occasion, be sure to tip the driver at the end of the night. Gratuity is typically 15% to 20%. Also, be sure to check your receipt. Sometimes it’s included on the bill.
If you found this article helpful, take five minutes to check out our other guides on all things limousine.
So long and good luck!
