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Saturday, November 29, 2008

Questions To Ask Before You Hire A Valet Parking Firm

By Ryan Tole

So you're looking for a valet parking firm to take care of your guests parking needs at your upcoming special event? You've made a smart move - valet parking adds a touch of class to any event, and your guests will appreciate the extra care you've taken to make them comfortable. But are you sure about the valet company you've chosen? Here are some questions you must ask before signing any paperwork.

Are all the valets that will be at my event licensed to drive in this state? You might be thinking this is a no brainer, but don't overlook it. It shouldn't be a problem with any reputable valet company, but don't assume anything. Insist that every driver at your event has a valid driver's license issued by the state where the event will take place. If the company can't do that, find another valet service. It's that simple.

Are all your drivers non-smokers? This may seem like a small thing, but don't overlook it. Just about every valet company forbids their drivers from smoking on the job, let alone while parking a car, but that's not the concern here. Many people are very sensitive to cigarette smoke, and if the guy who parks their car had a cigarette a few hours before reporting to your event, it could leave an odor in the guest's car.

Do you have references? Any reputable valet service will have lots of happy customers, and won't mind sharing their contact info with you. Be sure and check some of the references before agreeing to anything for added peace of mind.

Do you have all required insurance? The last thing you need to worry about is having to personally reimburse someone whose car was dinged by a valet driver. Check with your state to see what insurance valet parking companies are required to have, and then make sure the company has everything in order.

These are the things you need to go over before you agree to hire any valet parking service. It only takes a few minutes to get this information, and the firm shouldn't balk at all at answering every one of your questions. But failure to ask any of them can mean the difference between a good experience for your guests and yourself, and a bad one.

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