Frequently Asked Questions About Chartering A Bus

Charter Bus pricing varies based upon the specific trip that you are looking to do. Check out our Charter bus Pricing Page to give you an idea of bus costs.

Typically, most operators will not allow a minibus to travel over 150 mile radius. Minibuses are not built for extended travel which it makes the ride less comfortable for passengers over longer trips. Check out our Mini Bus page for more information.

Typically, operators have a 4 or 5 hour minimum on their buses. However, there are some operators who offer a transfer rate if you have a one-way short trip (i.e. Airport Transfer). Check out our charter bus pricing to learn more or ask an account executive.

Typically, it is the responsibility of the client to book a room for the driver. Often, a hotel will include a complimentary room for the driver if you have a large group staying at the hotel. Additionally, The BusBank can help you with group hotel rates.

Primarily most buses have air conditioning. However, if the A/C unit is not working, the client will be informed beforehand. If you have special video requirements, please notify your Account Executive.

Depending on the size of the bus, there are usually 2 to 6 monitors on the bus. However, not all buses have video monitors. If you have special video requirements, please notify your Account Executive. Our Mini bus rentals typically have between 2-3 monitors, while our deluxe motor coaches have 4-6 monitors.

Smoking is not allowed. Policies on alcohol vary from operator to operator. If you want to bring alcohol, let your Account Executive know ahead of time so they can search for that option. Some operators require refundable or non-refundable alcohol deposits. Kegs and glass bottles are not permitted.

The BusBank has a 24/7 Rapid Response line to assist you in any emergency. This line can be reached at (866) 428.7226 ext. 3. Please reach out to us if you are having a charter bus issue as we can assist. We likely will already have updated information for you thru our operator network.

Coolers are allowed on most buses; however the cooler must be placed on a seat so that the aisles are clear.

The buses shown on our website are examples of the buses we charter. If you have a specific question about a certain bus and its look or layout, please contact your Account Executive for assistance.

Yes. We have access to buses with ADA accessibility available. Please request that option of your Account Executive at time of booking.

Motorcoach drivers in the United States must comply with the following Hours of Service (HOS) rules: 1) A driver may drive up to 10 hours and then must have eight consecutive hours off duty; 2) A driver may remain on duty up to 15 hours, including driving and on-duty time. After this limit is reached, the driver must have eight consecutive hours off-duty; 3) A driver may not drive after having been on-duty for 70 hours in any consecutive eight day period.

Our Account Executives will be able to look at your specific itinerary to help ensure you stay within the guidelines for travel. BusBank can help setup relief drivers for itineraries that require additional drivers. This typically involves additional charges.

Once you have submitted a request for a quote either online or by phone, you will be contacted by an Account Executive. You will be required to sign a reservation confirmation as well as make a deposit when booking an order.

Deposit amounts vary according to the length of time in advance that the trip is booked. Most frequently a 30% deposit is required at the time of reservation with Full payment due 1 month prior to charter. If you have specific questions, please ask your Account Executive for more information.

Your deposit is refundable up to 31 days prior to departure date. Service cancelled within 30-15 days prior to departure will forfeit 30% of the cost of the trip. Any service cancelled within 14-7days of departure will be assessed a fee of no more than 50% of the trip cost. Any service that is cancelled within 7 days of departure will forfeit the full amount of the trip cost.

The final payment is due 30 days before departure. Trips booked within 30 days of departure require full payment at time of booking.

The BusBank® accepts ACH, Visa, MC, AMEX, checks, money orders and wire transfers.

Generally, we can accommodate just about any changes to your trip if given notice. When changes involve moving up or postponing your trip, this is generally handled as a cancellation and rebooking. We can sometimes waive cancellation fees on rebooking as long as there is availability, the same bus partner is used and the total cost of your trip does not change.

Typically, when booking 5 or more buses in a single area you will receive a quantity discount. Discounts are always dependent on availability and time of year.

The cost of your trip is based on the itinerary that was given to us by the group organizer. If there are additional hours added to the trip, you will be responsible for covering those costs.

Parking, bridge tolls and road tolls are not included in your quote and are the responsibility of the customer.

You are not obligated to tip a driver, but we recommend that if you are satisfied with your service, you do so. Although you may prefer to tip the driver in person, we suggest that you include the tip at the time of your charter payment. By including the tip at that point, you can avoid carrying this cash with you; we can tip the driver on your behalf after your trip. Typical rates for tipping a driver range from 10-20% for short charters and on over the road/Multi-day trips giving $1 or $2 per person/per day.

We have a comprehensive bus operator qualification process that, among many factors, includes a review of an operator’s insurance, safety program, driver certification and customer feedback. Additionally our relationship with Lancer Insurance gives us additional insight about safety trends.

Yes. We do work with operators who are School Pupil Activity Buses (SPAB) certified. Please make this request to your Account Executive at time of booking.

Yes. The BusBank only partners with operators who have a minimum of $1.5 Million for intrastate and mini bus travel and $5 million in insurance for motorcoaches or interstate travel. If necessary, we can get you proof of insurance after booking. We understand the importance of this and additionally monitor all of operators in our networks insurance.

Yes. The BusBank has an Event Logistics team that supports these events and their requirements.

The BusBank can definitely help you get your bus wrap made and put on the bus.

Many companies require competitive bids when booking trips. We offer a no-cost Request for Quote (RFQ) service presenting several different options for you to choose from. We will work with you from beginning to end to ensure you receive the best option for your needs.

Yes. Just let your Account Executive know you’re interested in our Event Logistics Services. We will tailor this service to your needs.