If you’re shopping for a bus, chances are you already have an idea of what you need in your mind. But, often that mental image of the bus for you is quite a bit different from the bus you need. Your “dream bus” can become a nightmare if you purchase before answering a number of questions to be sure you are getting the right fit. Likewise, a bus you may have never considered may be able to perform every function you need and more, but it can go overlooked if you haven’t researched enough to know what you’re looking for.
At American Bus Sales, we are always looking for ways to connect you with the bus that will fit your needs and requirements. To do this, you have to consider every aspect of how the bus will be used while also keeping in mind restrictions such as budgets, regulations, and personal preferences. The right bus is out there for you, you just have to know what you’re looking for. You can be sure you’re searching for the right bus, as long as you consider these things first:
Finances
There is no getting around it; mass transportation vehicles are large expenditures and budget is always a deciding factor in a hunt for the right bus. You need to know how it will be financed, and how depreciation will be handled. You also want to look for dealerships that offer guarantee you can return a bus if it isn’t working out after a respectively short period.
Warranties
Warranties in the bus industry can be a confusing mess if you aren’t prepared. This is because there is no cohesive warranty plan for buses. Instead, the chassis, body, rear air condition, video capabilities, and tires likely all have individual warranties. Any dealer you plan on working with should be able to help you navigate the confusing legal speak and explain the limits of each warranty.
Presentation
Buses may not have the style of a sports car, but appearance is just as important to bus owners and fleet providers as other vehicle owners. You want to present the best image possible to the community and passengers, especially when it comes to comfort. Buses can be equipped with all sorts of amenities, and passengers will notice the small details such as “side sliders” which can help create more room or overhead storage to create more legroom. Beverage holders are even an option. What are your passengers going to look for when they consider riding your bus?
Safety
Even if you aren’t using your bus to transport students, safety is the highest concern in mass transportation. In the past, fifteen-passenger vans were popular for moving smaller groups of people, but they are remarkably unsage and several legislators have been working to phase them out. Meanwhile, buses of all sizes are specifically designed to be able to safely carry passengers, with a lower center of gravity to prevent rolling and dual rear wheels add stability. Even if your group is small, they are safer in a bus than most other vehicles.
Regulations
Lastly, there is always the issue of regulations that have to be addressed. Commercial buses are frequently less regulated, but there is extensive legislative restrictions and unique school district regulations which have to be researched and resolved.
