Car service tipping

[MagiKitty]

I've never used a car service before, but will be using one later this week. I'm just wondering what the protocol is for tipping the driver. I am not personally paying the service, so I have no idea what it will cost. Does anyone have any suggestions as to an appropriate tip? I do tip the driver, right?

 

[uva185]

Sometimes the gratuity is included in the bill. Are you talking about a car service from MCO to Disney or elsewhere in the US?

 

[MagiKitty]

The service is here in NY. A company is sending a car to pick me up and take me into Manhattan. Its a long ride--2 1/2 hours.

 

[uva185]

The service is here in NY. A company is sending a car to pick me up and take me into Manhattan. Its a long ride--2 1/2 hours.

Last time I took a 2.5 hour sedan ride (From Maryland to Richmond, VA) I think it cost $250 so I would tip $50 (20%) unless it is already included in the bill.

 

[jlewisinsyr]

When I'm traveling on business we use car service to and from the airport and our offices and we are prohibited from tipping as it is included in our negotiated rate. If you're not personally paying for the service and its paid for by a company, you'll want to find out if the corporate rate includes the tip or not.

 

[MagiKitty]

I actually won this trip--I'm not sure who in the company to ask about the corporate rate. I guess I'll send out an email and maybe they'll tell me what to do. Thanks everyone!

 

[TheWog]

Congrats, that's great.

You could always call the limo company (or one in the area you know of) and ask them what it would cost for the trip and base the tip on that. 20% is pretty standard.

 

[Lewisc]

A limo, as opposed to a towncar, almost always includes a 20% gratuity. It's likely a 2 1/2 your ride include the gratuity, a driver wouldn't want to take the chance of being stiffed. In some parts of the country an automatic service charge/tip is added for most customers.

Ask the contest people if a gratuity/service fee is included. If it's not ask what range of tip is appropriate for good service.

If the tip is included I'd say something to the driver (when I'm getting out) like I was told a gratuity was already paid, make sure your boss doesn't stiff you.

 

[MagiKitty]

Thank you everyone for your help. I spoke with the travel coordinator this morning and the gratuity is included in the fare, I am not responsible for tipping the driver. Someone'll be picking me up tomorrow afternoon!