Whenever chartering a vehicle, it is always a good idea to ensure the company you charter from is operating the vehicle in compliance with all safety, regulatory, and insurance requirements for your jurisdiction. Many Highway Coach companies operating in Ontario are fully compliant. However, many limousine and VIP Coach operators are not. Chartering a vehicle from them could result in your charter not being completed due to a preventable mechanical breakdown, or an MTO officer ceasing the charter due to inadequate operating authority. In the event of an accident, these vehicles would not have any applicable insurance due to the operation of these vehicles "while not authorized by law". The reason for the regulations is to ensure that this complex piece of equipment is maintained in an acceptable manner that will ensure safety for the passengers aboard the vehicle, as well as people travelling around the vehicle. Failing to have proper mechanical inspections, or proper insurance limits, or proper operating authority is illegal, and speaks to the business practices of the offending companies. Do you want to trust a company that operates in this manner? Before chartering any vehicle, ask the following questions to ensure you are dealing with a reputable, properly licensed operator. It may be the difference between your charter being completed, or not.

1. Request that the company supply its certificate of authority or license. All bus companies operating in the province of Ontario must have operating authority from the Ontario Highway Transport Board. This "license" allows them to provide services out of specific geographic areas.

2. What is the company's safety record? Ask for their Commercial Vehicle Operator Registration (CVOR) number which is the identification used by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to track a company's accidents, on-road detentions, and convictions. MTO can provide a public abstract.

3. Request a Certificate of Insurance. This certificate shows the carrier's levels of insurance and effective policy dates. The Public Vehicles Act calls for a minimum of $8,000,000 in passenger hazard insurance for vehicles carrying 13 or more passengers.

4. Ask for references. Request and contact references from similar types of groups. Never charter from a company that is unwilling to provide references.

5. Is the carrier a full-service company? Do they have their own maintenance facilities? Look for proof that the vehicle you will be using has passed a complete mechanical inspection. Buses in Ontario are required to be inspected and receive a safety decal every 6 months.

6. Ask how long the company has been in business. Find out when the company was established, and how long it has been offering charter motor coach services. A good track record is always desirable.

7. Ask for the company's procedures for on-the-road emergencies. Ask about their affiliation with professional associations or emergency aid organizations which might be expected to assist in the case of a mechanical breakdown or other complication during your trip.

8. Is the company available for inspections? You should be able to inspect the motor coach equipment, general offices and garage facilities before signing any contracts or agreements.

9. What is the average age of the equipment operated?

10. Does your group have special needs that must be met?