Do you tip the driver again IF the gratuity

[miladykmp]

Hi,

We are using Happy Limo for a June trip. The rate quoted includes the gratuity.
Do any of you tip on top of that?

Thanks!

 

[gonzalj1]

This is really a matter of personal preference. I would not add on a gratuity if it is included in the rate. I would tip, however, if you receive exceptional service.

PERSONAL RANT - Not meant to offend anyone.

This practice really ticks me off. Although I understand that the drivers rely on tips for a living this goes against the very reason for giving a tip, to ensure quality service. I've seen way too many people who know that they are guaranteed a tip give less than exceptional service.

END RANT

 

[DebbieB]

I agree that the tip should not be automatically included. I used a local limo service to and from the airport at home in December. They added 15% plus a service charge. I wasn't happy with the driver on the way home, she flipped the TV on in the back and then got on her cellphone dicussing buying a computer with someone. I heard they recently lost their airport license for lack of insurance, don't feel bad.

 

[nluvwithdisney]

We had a driver that showed up 45 minutes late before. We had 5 minutes to make our flight.
He felt that he still deserved a tip. His tip from me was telling him to be on time. He had gotten lost. I said that was not an excuse because when I booked the reservation, they said they would not need directions.

 

[Eeyore1954]

I agree with DebbieB. My DW and I use a limo in Chicago to get to/from O'Hare. I don't know what part of the fare/fee the driver gets, if any. However, a tip is optional based on service. If, like "nluvwithdisney" says, they show up late, the tip goes down. If they are really late, or slow, or lazy, then I don't feel obligated to tip.

If a tip is automatically included in the fare, then I usually do not add any extra, unless the service was superior and/or exceeded expectations.

TIPS = To Insure Prompt Service

 

[miladykmp]

Thanks to all who replied to my question!
In general we do not tip when a gratuity is included in the fee unless the service exceeded our expectations. After hearing from you folks I am more comfortable with the way we handle tipping in this situation.