Q1. What is the difference between standard and executive coaches?
   

A1. Standard coaches are basic coaches fitted with seat belts and generally come with fabric seats. These type of coaches are designed to get you from A to B., For example, short journeys, school trips,  and airport transfers. Executive coaches are normally fitted with leather chairs to provide extra comfort when traveling. Sometimes they include tinted windows, tables, chillers, and toilet facilities. Executive coaches are perfect for corporate and executive journeys, long-distance trips and tours.

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Q2. What size coach do I need to book?

A2. When requesting a coach quotation you will be required to state the number of passengers and your luggage requirements. Your provider will quote the relevant vehicle based on this information. Smaller vehicles generally do not have an underneath luggage holder so your provider may quote you a larger vehicle to accommodate your luggage. Large coaches normally have underneath storage bins which can hold 1 suitcase per person.

Q3. What is the speed limit for minibusses and coaches?
    
A3. Coaches are limited to 50mph on a single carriageway and 60mph on a dual carriageway. On motorways minibusses and coaches less than 12 meters long are allowed to travel at 70mph however coaches longer than 12 meters are restricted to 60mph
https://www.gov.uk/speed-limits

Q4. How many hours can a coach driver drive?

A4. Yes, coach drivers are only allowed to drive 9 hours a day. Coach drivers must not work more than 6 hours continuously without having a break of at least 15 minutes. During a 9 -hour driving shift a driver must take a 45 min break this is recommended after 4.5 hours of driving.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/drivers-hours-passenger-vehicles/1-eu-and-aetr-rules-on-drivers-hours

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Q5.What licenses and specialist tests do coach drivers require?

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A5. Drivers and vehicles need to make sure they qualify for a Low emissions certificate for the London Area. Application for certificates can be made at DVSA test centers.

https://www.gov.uk/specialist-tests-for-coaches-and-buses/reduced-emissions-test

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Drivers need to make sure their vehicles meet the safety seat belt regulations and tests which can be done at DVSA test centers.

https://www.gov.uk/specialist-tests-for-coaches-and-buses/seat-belt-installation-tests

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Bus and coach drivers require a full driver CPC license

 

• Driver CPC part 1 test: theory

• Driver CPC part 2 test: case studies

• Driver CPC part 3 test: driving ability

• Driver CPC part 4 test: practical demonstration

Licences need to be renewed every 5 years and drivers over the age of 65 years they need to be renewed every year.

https://www.gov.uk/become-lorry-bus-driver/when-you-dont-need-driver-cpc

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Q6. What time should I book my coach for an airport transfer?
   

A6. For arrivals, you should book your coach to arrive no less than 45 mins after your plane lands. You will need to allow time to collect your luggage, clear security, and immigration.
For departures, we recommend you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your flight departure. You will need time to check-in and process your hand luggage through security.
   

Q7. What sizes do minibusses and coaches come in?

A7. Minibusses normally come in 8-12 seats 12-16 seats and 17-21seats. Coaches normally range from 25- 30 seats, 30 -39 seats, 49 seats, 50 seats, 53 seats, and 57 seats. Larger coaches such as 60 seats and even 80 seats can sometimes be requested however they are normally quite rare to find.

Q8. How are coach prices calculated?
   

A8. Coach hire prices are calculated on the mileage of your journey, drivers hours and the type of vehicle you choose. Prices can sometimes be negotiated depending on the circumstances.

 

Q9. What happens if I need to cancel my coach?

 

A9. All requests for cancellations must be made in writing. Should the Hirer wish to cancel a booking the following terms and charges shall apply.

For the avoidance of doubt, in the event of cancellation by the Hirer, all deposits are non-refundable.

 

• 21 days or more before the initial date of travel – a charge equivalent to 25% of the total order value shall be applied.

• 14 days or more before the initial date of travel – a charge equivalent to 50% of the total order value shall be applied.

• 7 days or more before the initial date of travel – a charge equivalent to 75% of the total order value shall be applied.

• less than 7 days’ notice before the initial date of travel date - all monies will be forfeited to the company and the full value of the trip will be due.​

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Q10. How can I pay for my coach hire?

A10. You can pay by credit card, Debit card, Visa card Mastercard, American Express, PayPal or Bank Transfer all of which have 0% surcharge fees. Transport Advisor does not accept cheques.

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