8 things to look out for when deciding what private chauffeur service to use
When looking for a private chauffeur service, whether travelling for business or leisure, it’s essential that you choose the right qualified professional for you. To ensure you get the best standard of service, there are a few things to look out for.
- Looking for a vehicle rental with private chauffeur and not sure how to choose ?
- Used a private chauffeur service in the past but found it underwhelming and want to make sure you make the right choice this time ?
- Are you a business owner looking for a luxury private chauffeur service for your employees ?
- A regular user of private chauffeur services and just want to check you're getting the best deal ?
Check out our guide to help you choose the right private chauffeur service for you.
Availability
The first thing you need to take into consideration when thinking about using a private chauffeur service for your business or personal travel requirements is their availability. Your chauffeur needs to be available 24/7 so you can be free to come and go as you please. If you're booking travel in advance, your chauffeur needs to fit into the pre-agreed schedule.
Responsiveness
Your chauffeur needs to be responsive. Whether faced with traffic congestion or roadworks, he needs to be able to find a solution to get you to your appointment on time. He will keep abreast of your commitments and, drawing on his local knowledge and tourist numbers in high season, he will be able to estimate travel times.
What's more, by using a private chauffeur service you can be sure of a fast response whenever you want to travel.
Local knowledge
Your private driver will have extensive knowledge of the region where he works. Thanks to his local background you are guaranteed a high standard of service and recommendations on the local area. Whether it's the region's swankiest restaurants or breathtaking views you're after, he has all the tools to help you get the most out of your stay.
A particular vehicle in mind? You'll be spoilt for choice!
Limo companies offer a wide range of vehicles so there's something for everyone.
If you're a solo traveller and are looking for comfort when travelling, why not opt for a luxury long width like a Mercedes Class S ? If you need to get your staff to a business function, a private chauffeur service can offer you vans or buses with drivers.
Choosing a private chauffeur service means you’ll get a bespoke service that meets your requirements and will have a full fleet of vehicles to choose from.
Experience offering a high-end service
Your chauffeur will have a wealth of experience working with VIPs and the many services he offers are designed to meet the requirements of a discerning clientèle. Chauffeurs have many innate qualities including good manners and discretion. Many drivers are multilingual so whatever your nationality you’ll have no problem communicating with your chauffeur.
Your chauffeur will offer you a faultless service and a high-end vehicle so you can travel in comfort and have all your needs met. His vehicle will be equipped with a number of features for maximum comfort: Wifi, leather seats, tables available.
Private chauffeur service: costs
The hire of booking a private chauffeur service depends on a number of factors:
- The type of vehicle you hire : The cost of the service may vary depending on the number and model of vehicles you choose.
- How long you book the private chauffeur service for: Whether it's for a short-term or long-term need, how length of the booking can have a significant impact on the cost of the private chauffeur service. Some businesses have a pricing structure based on a sliding scale for longer bookings. It’s important to discuss your plans with the provider so you can arrange your travel based on a personalised estimate.
Optional extras
Some limo companies offer their VIP clients optional extras. With these services you can enjoy a unique experience customised to your requirements so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.
Luxury concierge service
Your chauffeur will also offer bespoke high-end services for clients. Some offer luxury concierge services to meet any requirements, be it a last-minute babysitter, hiring a yacht for a party or special decor for an event while you’re away on business. Concierge services are gaining in popularity and complement the private chauffeur service perfectly.
Tours and excursions
Your limo company can also offer you the opportunity to explore the region where you are staying. Your chauffeur will be on-hand throughout your stay and can organise excursions and tours so you can enjoy the varied scenery and attractions the region has to offer.
The benefit of using a private chauffeur service for your excursions is that you’ll have someone on-hand who is intimately acquainted with the region. If you want to explore the region by boat, helicopter or any other transport method and eat out at the hippest restaurants, travelling with a private chauffeur service offer you an experience unlike any other.
Bodyguards and security drivers
Whether you're travelling on business or for personal reasons a private chauffeur service can put in place a range of security measures for your personal protection. Lots of private drivers benefit from a safety training course which consists of put in place the means of protection of a person, master the basics of the safety and security of the people transported, adapt their driving in certain circumstances (accident prevention, risk assessment, emergency braking techniques, wet track …). For example, all Ruby Services private drivers have been trained in safe driving.
Also, some limo companies can provide you with bodyguards to keep you safe when you're on the road, so you’ll have your own security detail with you at all times.
Reviews
When choosing your private chauffeur service, check out online reviews to get an idea of the standard of service on offer. Although they're subjective, you will be able to check whether your chauffeur is right for you.
If you prefer your driver to be discreet rather than talkative, checking the reviews will give you an idea of the standard of service offered by your driver.
If you are looking for an English-speaking chauffeur, you can look for the languages in the reviews. For example, with Google reviews you can see whether the reviews have been translated from another language. This will show you that the review has been submitted by a client who speaks a foreign language and give you reassurance that your chauffeur will be fluent in a language other than French.
To ensure the reviews on the various platforms like Google or Trustpilot are legitimate, check that the reviewer has left more than one review and have provided their last name, first name and a photo. This will prevent you being misled by fake reviews.
