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Unread 25-07-2006, 16:54
Unsung FIRST Hero
RoboMom RoboMom is offline
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AKA: Jenny Beatty, no relation
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Re: Charter Bus teams, how do you handle them?

Even if you aren't a local public school, stop by the office of your local school and get a copy of the "approved vendor list." There is a reason that companies are removed from this list.

Band groups are often the most similar to what goes on at a FIRST regional. Ask for advice on which company to use.

Draft a grid worksheet, with categories such as "cost for 47 passenger, cost for 52 passenger, hours (many have a set figure and then overtime kicks in), how much deposit and refund rules, etc.

Call around. You will be surprised at how different the price quotes will be. Watch if one is a lot lower. You might have forgotten one of the many categories that should be on the grid above. Never just get one quote (unless the driver is the father is someone on the team-and then still get another quote-long story there...)

Having a bus lets you look at less expensive hotels for overnight trips. Consider the costs if you don't do an overnight (if trip is under 90 minutes).

Besides sharing with another team, also consider asking for "donations" from parents, etc, who ride with you, to offset the price. Use this for the tip. Yes, you need to tip.

Bus prices have gone way up, because of gas and insurance.
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Last edited by RoboMom : 25-07-2006 at 16:57.
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