1.Does your group have any special needs that must be met?

Things like the need for video, microphone, AM/FM/CD, wheel chair accessability or other special equipment.

2.Clearly spell out your schedule and what is involved, in detail.

Be sure the company knows what hours the driver must be available to the group.

3.Ask how long the company has been in business.

Find out when the company was established, and how long it has been offering charter coach services. A good track record is always desirable.

4.What is the Company's DOT rating?

A satisfactory rating is standard. Never charter from a company with an unsatisfactory rating.

5.Ask for references

Request and contact references from similiar type groups travelling on similiar type programs. Never charter from a company unwilling to provide references.

6.Ask how many coaches are in the fleet.

Overall charter fleet size is important. It provides a guage to the operator's ability to supply alternate vehicles in the event of a mechanical problem, on multi-motorcoach movements, or on weekends and during peak seasons. It also provides some insight into success of the company.

7.Request a Certificate of Insurance.

Your carrier should supply a letter or certificate of insurance. This letter/certificate shows the carrier's level of insurance and effective policy dates. Accepted levels of insurance call for a minimum of $5 million for combined single limit liability.

8.Is the Company adhering to Department of Transportation driver regulations?

Make sure the company is compliant with Canadian and U.S. Federal Hours of Service. If your itineray requires more than the limit, ask how the charter company is going to handle it.

9.Ask the company's procedures for on the road emergencies.

The operator should have access to a nationwide reciprocal maintenance agreement which will assure you of prompt servicing of equipment in all regions that the carrier travels.

10.What is the average age of the equipment operated?

Vehicles that are 10 years or older, unless properly maintained on a preventative maintenance program, can have a greatly diminished reliability factor. Generally, the newer the motorcoach, the fewer the breakdowns.

11.Are video equipped motorcoaches available?

Video-equipped coaches can be a genuine asset. You can view educational videos or provide movies to help pass the hours.

12.Does the company have a drug screening program in place?

Ensure your carrier has a written drug policy and drug testing program. Never charter from a carrier that does not strongly enforce a drug-free workplace.

13.Who is responsible for extra mileage costs above the contracted amount?

Find out the carrier's policy before the trip, not when you get the bill.

14.Is the carrier a full service company?

Do they have their own maintenance facilities? Can they provide vehicles to meet special needs?