Getting from WDW to UO for 8, including infant

[A (squared)]

I've read through a bunch of the WDW to Universal transportation threads, but haven't been able to find an answer to my rather-specific situation, so hoping people can offer advice!

We are a family of 8 - 5 adults, 2 teens, and 1 infant (2 months old) - staying at CBR in mid-September and wanting to go to IOA for a day. We aren't renting a car on our trip, partially because of my in-law's preferences (they're paying for the trip) and partially because with 8 people, we won't even fit into a minivan (which also rules out Uber/etc, I'm pretty sure). It looks like Mears is the most recommended way to get to Universal, which seems fine, but I haven't been able to figure out what sort of bus/van they'll use. The pictures seem to show a large bus, which means that the baby can just be carried and won't need a car seat, but I also saw references on DIS posts that in slower periods (which I'm guessing a Sunday morning in mid-September would be) they might just send a large van, which then we would need a car seat for. We'll have a car seat on the trip, but I really don't want to have it for the day at Universal, since then where would I put it? So, my actual questions:

1. Is there any way to find out if Mears will send a bus vs. a van?
2. If they send a van, can they supply a car seat? If not, is there a place I can stash the car seat at Universal?
3. Given all of this, would it make more sense to reserve a car/van service, and if so, any recommendations? (I saw a post where someone recommended Murray Hill Transportation, and they apparently can provide a car seat.) Is the price likely to be much more for our group?

I haven't been to Universal since 1998, so really looking forward to this visit, as long as we can figure out how to get there! LOL

 

[VacaPlanner2012]

I use Mears a lot and find their customer service to be extremely helpful. They had a car seat in the back for me on one trip without me requesting it, just in case. Absolutely give them a call and let them know your needs, and they will definitely accomodate. Heck, you'll be paying for it, one way or another. They aren't always the cheapest, but they always come through. Also, especially with an infant, they have been great when I have called and changed the pick up time for the end of the day. You never know how a day in any park will play out, so their flexibility has bailed me out more than once, both shortening and lengthening my day. A decent tip upfront to your driver always helps.

 

[escriven75]

We've used Tony Hinds (let me know if you need contact info) several times now as recommended by many regulars on the Disboards. We had 4 adults and 2 kids last time and there is plenty of room for a couple more in his van. He is very professional, on time, friendly and reasonably priced. He will provide carseats / boosters if you need them, just let him know when you reserve. I will look up his number if you like or someone else may beat me to it and post it following. Have a great trip!!!

 

[kathi29]

Why would you even consider taking transportation that doesn't allow you to properly and safely secure your infant? Safety should not take a vacation.