What to ask before you book an airport transfer

Directory listings get you to the right companies. The booking conversation is where you find out whether the car will actually be there. Ask these questions before you share card details or send a deposit.

Coverage and licensing

• Do you collect from my exact postcode, not just the city name?
• Are you licensed for private hire or taxi work in this area?
• Will a named local driver do the job, or is it passed to another firm?

The fare

Ask for a fixed quote for the date and time you are travelling. Night rates, extra passengers, child seats and waiting time should be in that number, not added in the car. If the quote is much cheaper than two other local firms, ask why.

• Is the quote fixed, or metered from the door?
• What is the waiting time at the airport, and when does it start?
• Is parking or drop-off charged separately?
• How do I pay — cash, card in the car, or bank transfer?

The vehicle

A saloon is fine for two people and cabin bags. An estate or MPV is safer once you add a pushchair, golf clubs or a third large case. Ask what will actually turn up, not what is on the website.

Tip. If you need a child seat, say the age and weight. Many local firms can supply one if you ask the day before — not at the kerb.

If the flight moves

Give the flight number and ask whether they monitor arrivals. For inbound trips, confirm the meeting point: arrivals hall, a named door, or a short-stay car park. For outbound trips, ask what happens if you need to leave earlier or later than planned.

A good operator answers these questions in one call. If they dodge the fare, the vehicle or the pickup point, keep looking.