If you are going to hire a limousine then it must be for something really special. To assure that your special occasion goes off without a hitch some precautions in advance will save time, trouble, and disappointment later.

A reputable business will have an office and will be happy to give you their physical address. Beware of businesses that have only a post office box or that are based from a residence. There should also be a land-based telephone number, not just a cell phone. However, it is a good idea to get a cell phone number for someone who can be reached in the event a problem arises later while you are using the services of the company.

Take notice of how the telephone call was answered. The representative answering the phone should have answered professionally by stating the company's name and offering assistance. This person should be open and invite your inquiries.

They should be knowledgeable concerning the general practices of the business, the types of vehicles they have in their fleet, the cost of most any service you request, and should be happy to assist you in any way that they can.

This person should also be willing to fax, mail, or email any information that you request, including quotes, a copy of their standard contract and any special requests that you may have, photos of their vehicles, and any other paperwork that you could reasonably expect to be provided by the company.

The company should not be opposed to having you stop by to look at the vehicles, should you request to do so. This may be the one thing that the average person does not do, only to be disappointed later because the vehicle that was provided for their use did not meet the image that the customer had of what a limousine should be or of the service they would receive. If at all possible, go to the company and visually inspect the limo and have in writing that it will be the one that you get.

A company that offers lower rates may be a great deal. However, you will want to cover every detail because it could be that they charge lower fess due to the inferior quality of their vehicles and of their services.

Call the local Better Business Bureau and the local livery association to inquire about any complaints that have been filed against the company. You can also ask if the company is a member of the National Limousine Association.