1. Book in advance

Generally the earlier you book the cheaper it will be for your limo. Tampa limo owners get a lot of late booking from tourists but they like to have some work on their books as well in advance. If you are willing to pay a deposit or even the entire cost up front you can get an even better deal as cancellations are a big problem for any limo service, Tampa based companies included.

2. Make sure you know who your driver will be

A good limo company will have regular drivers who they have used for some time and know are trustworthy and reliable. Make sure you get one of the company’s regular drivers, which should also make sure they are licensed and that you will remain safe.

3. Get a recommendation

A recommendation for a limo service is always good and decreases your risk. With small firms with only a few drivers or better still independent limo drivers with their own vehicle if you get a recommendation you have a good chance you will receive the same service. At the end of the day the driver is more important than the car, especially if you need help with luggage or directions at your destination.

4. Get deals by booking outside of busy periods

If your traveling to the airport at 4 o’clock on a Tuesday morning you shouldn’t be paying as much as on a Friday evening when demand is higher. If you are booking for quiet periods make sure you try and negotiate a better price and if the company you contact won’t lower their price move on. Busy periods include around proms, Christmas and of course weekends so plan your trip for other times if possible.

5. Check out the fleet

Many Limo companies show their vehicles online including the interior and exterior. It is good to know what your vehicle will look like, including its age and condition. Some limo drivers have older vehicles that are still immaculate of course but it is as well to know what you’re getting to avoid any nasty shocks. If you want a stretch limousine make sure you specify this too, as many companies have both standard and stretch limos.

6. Get a set price and know what it includes

Get a price agreed before you book the service and make sure you know what is included; drinks and snacks may be extra and may be at mini bar prices, plus their may be surcharges for certain destinations as well as to cover tolls.

7. Check your limo company is registered with the state

Any limo company should be registered with the state as a limo service, Tampa limos will be registered with Florida who will be able to give you details of who is and isn’t registered so you don’t have to take their word for it.

8. Choose based on your event and needs

Some companies specialize, for example a company providing limos for Proms and Hen Nights may have bright pink limos that may not be right if you are traveling to an important business meeting where looks count.

9. Get a few quotes and then Negotiate

Phone around get some prices and then see if the company you ideally want to use will undercut the others. If not you may have to choose between price and the service you think you’ll get.

10. Get some extras thrown in

If getting the price down by negotiating isn’t working then how about getting some extras thrown in? As we mentioned things like drinks and food are often extra: tell them you’ll book with them but only if some refreshments are included or they remove surcharges.