Big occasions call for big plans of preparation, including a luxurious limo ride. If one is looking to rent a limo, choosing the right limousine service company may be a challenge to those not accustomed to renting limos. With so many limo services all offering top notch service and varying prices, "How to Rent a Limo" aims to shed some light on renting a limo for your next event.

Limos are a great way to arrive and leave anywhere in style. In the past, only the rich and prestigious were able to afford limousine services. Today, many limo companies offer affordable solutions so anyone can enjoy a limo ride on any special event. They function as more than just a taxi to and from a place. With the vast array of technological devices available today, limos are equipped with high tech tvs, phones, bars, and even Internet service. Also growing in popularity, are limo buses which are better suited for large parties.

Considering what accommodations you, your party, and your event require, How to Rent a Limo will guide you with the most important factors in renting a limo.

1.) Identify and Plan: First off, you need to identify the purpose of the limo rental. If it is a prom, will the limo be needed to/from dance and to/from the after party? Plan out the event and when the limo will be needed during the various trips required. The most common limo rentals are for airport trips, proms, weddings, funerals, and bachelor/bachelorette parties. Make sure to plan renting for at least an extra hour as events may extend beyond their planned hours.

Next you need to identify how many people will actually be riding the limo. SUV stretch limos will accommodate up to 18 passengers, while the classic car limousine can allow up to 10 passengers to ride around in style. If your party has a certain make and model in mind, be sure to request that. Overcrowding and booking to the maximum capacity is obviously not recommended.

2.) Research: Once you have identified all aspects of the limo ride, you need to research the company that you are renting the limo and chauffeur from. When considering a limousine service company, the most important factor is service. Indications of a limo rental company with excellent service will show from the initial contact. They will promptly answer your call and make you feel comfortable you have chosen the right company to be a part of your event.

Your chosen limo company should be happy to provide you with a tour of their vehicles and run you through their fleet while answering any questions you have. Closely inspect the interior and exterior condition of the limousine to ensure cleanliness and proper maintenance. Be extremely cautious if a limo rental company offers to meet you in a parking lot.

Ensure the limo rental company is legitimate and is fully licensed and insured. Their insurance should cover the vehicle and the passengers. Your chosen limo rental should carry at least $1 million coverage. All drivers should possess a current chauffeur's license and have passed a Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) background check.

Ask for references from the prospective limousine rental service. They should be delighted to offer them to you. This is an opportunity for them to shine and have their other customers share their experiences.

3.) Book in advance: Especially during high seasons such as prom, it is highly recommended that you reserve your limo rental around 3 months prior to the event.

Also, inquire about wedding discounts or specials. Some limousine rental services offer discounts for booking your bachelor/ette parties and the wedding transportation at the same time.

Ensure you understand the quoted price. Some quotes may not include gratuity, sales tax, or administrative fees. There may also be a minimum hour required to receive a special price.

*.) Enjoy: So you have done the research for choosing a limo rental, booked the limo, and confirmed with all involved parties. There's only one last thing to do: enjoy the ride and have some fun - you deserve it!