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The limousine service industry is not immune to scams and fraudulent activities. What can we say, it is a cruel world we are living in. While there are plenty of legitimate, and ethical chauffeur service businesses out there, there are also others who do not mind scheming and cheating to get ahead of others. In this post, we will tell you about the most common scams in the limo service industry and give you tips on how to avoid them.
Limousine Service Scam #1: Not as Expected
The internet has given us access to everything right from the tips of our fingers. Naturally, businesses adapted and took their trade online. The Limousine Services industry has caught up and had developed an online presence as well. Sadly, the same technological advancement gave way to cheaters and scammers to reach a bigger audience.
The first trick to watch out for is the ‘’expected vehicle”. You will not be please if you booked a classy Mercedes and end up with some crappy car for a limo service. Since it is very easy to take a photo of a nice car from the internet and post it as “their car”. Scammers tend to make clients believe they own a fleet of nice-looking, quality vehicles available for service. Only to disappoint clients when the day comes and they end up with an entirely different car, or worse with none at all.
To avoid such a situation, make sure you are dealing with a legitimate limousine and chauffeur service company. Check their website for business registration numbers. Legitimate companies should be legally registered. Google them, look for reviews, check their social media, and if there are contact numbers give them a call.
Limousine Service Scam #2: The Deal of the Century
If the offer looks too good to be true, it probably is. A limo service that is way too cheap is impossible. Remember, you get what you pay for – paying less than normal will most probably get you a meager car and less impressive chauffeur service. There is nothing wrong with shopping around for a good price. But you want to make sure you are not sacrificing quality and service for the price.
Limousine Service Scam #3: Cash Only
Chauffeur Services do not use meters – rates are predetermined and are settled during the booking process. They also provide various payment methods for clients to settle their bills, and they would send out an official invoice. If there are unexpected changes, make sure to contact the person-in-charge of booking. Remember, legitimate chauffeurs, do not ask for cash payments – in special cases that you need to pay in cash, make sure to communicate with the booking manager.
Limousine Service Scam #4: Extra Charges
When negotiating limo and chauffeur service rates, make sure to ask about the inclusions. Scammers would try to cheat you with surprise charges like overcharges for time delays, unexpected food and beverage charges, service taxes, and more.
To avoid such a situation, make sure to clarify the inclusions – for example here in Singapore, there are GST (Goods and Services Tax) charges – asks if the rates already include them. Be clear on policies as well, how long are the allowable waiting and over time until there are extra charges. Are food and beverage provided? If so, are those charges included in your negotiated contract?
Do not be afraid to ask questions, it will save you from having to pay extra at the end of your trip.
Limousine Service Scam #5: Third-party booking
While there are legitimate booking agencies out there, you need to watch out for the cheating and scheming ones. These ones tend to overcharge, or worse flake out at the last minute. Third-party bookers take a large percentage of the fee then contact the cheapest chauffeur service option. Not caring about the quality or demanding a service guarantee.
Research and dig a little deeper. As much as possible look for actual limousine service companies to guarantee that you get the right limo for the right price.