Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about chartering a motor coach, browse the frequently asked questions below. If your question isn't answered here, please contact us during office hours.
- What kind of liability insurance coverage does Great Canadian have?
- What measures are taken for safety?
- What are Great Canadian's Licences and Associations?
- What about maintenance?
- What are some features of your motor coaches?
- Is there a washroom onboard?
- Is food allowed onboard?
- Where should medication be stored?
- Is smoking or alcohol allowed onboard?
- What is the industry standard for driver gratuities?
- What is required for border crossings?
- What about travelling with unaccompanied minors?
- When should I provide my itinerary?
1. What kind of liability insurance coverage does Great Canadian have?
Although $8 Million is the minimum liability insurance requirement for a carrier, as a responsible carrier, Great Canadian holds $10 Million in liability insurance.
2. What measures are taken for safety?
At Great Canadian we pride ourselves on our safe driving record. All of our drivers are strictly screened to ensure that we put your safety in only the best hands. Our driver trainer evaluates each driver meticulously prior to allowing them behind the wheel of one of our coaches. As well, our operations staff is constantly monitoring driver performance. It is the mandate at Great Canadian that we will not allow our drivers to perform any service that is not safe. In addition, all of our drivers are enrolled in a drug and alcohol testing program.
3. What are Great Canadian's Licences and Associations?
As a quality operator, Great Canadian feels that it is essential to be properly licensed and registered. To that end, we hold an active Commercial Vehicle Operators Registration issued by the Ontario Highway Transport Board. We also hold an Operating Authority with the US Department of Transportation. Our motor coaches are licensed to travel within all of Canada and the United States. In order to obtain up to date industry relative information, we are proud members of the following organizations: Trailways OMCA UMA ABA
4. What about maintenance?
Our team of dedicated garage personnel work around the clock to ensure that our coaches meet and exceed our customer's expectations. Each of our coaches is inspected twice a year as required by the Ministry of Transportation. In addition, our mechanics regularly service the coaches to ensure that on the road failures are minimized. As with any vehicle, unpredictable problems can occur. When that happens, our network of business partners is ready, willing, and able to assist.
5. What are some features of your motor coaches?
Each of our coaches is equipped with a variety of features for your comfort. All coaches are equipped with DVD players, climate control, reclining seats, frost-free panoramic windows, and more. Our coaches are also equipped with onboard WiFi, available for an extra cost.
6. Is there a washroom onboard?
There is a washroom located at the rear of the coach for your convenience. Your driver will make regular comfort stops. There is no running water in the coach, but a sanitizer is located in a container on the wall.
7. Is food allowed onboard?
Food is allowed onboard, except for dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream, milk, etc.
8. Where should medication be stored?
All medication should be kept in your hand luggage on board the coach. When crossing the border keep all medicines in their original containers. Diabetics should always carry something to eat in the event that the coach is delayed.
9. Is smoking or alcohol allowed onboard?
Smoking of any kind and alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the coach.
10. What is the industry standard for driver gratuities?
It is customary to show appreciation to your driver at the end of the trip. Because we are asked so often what an appropriate amount is for drivers' gratuities, we are giving you the suggested guidelines of: 10-15% of your charter cost. Tipping, of course, is at your discretion, and should reflect the level of service you received.
11. What is required for border crossings?
A valid Canadian passport is required for entry into the United States.
12. What about travelling with unaccompanied minors?
Travelling with minors across the border or even within Canada can be challenging. In order to provide these travellers with assistance, one person within your group should be made responsible for their well being. This should include a written letter of permission for the unaccompanied minor to travel with you. Be specific in the letter as to dates and locations for travel. The letter should also include instructions for medical emergencies.
13. When should I provide my itinerary?
A professional driver is an informed driver. Please provide us with clear details on your exact departure point, itinerary and destination at least two weeks prior to departure. This allows us the opportunity to review the itinerary for Hours of Service violations and to provide the driver enough time to research his/her trip.
Is your question not listed?
Contact us by email or call us at 1 800 461 8687 x 282.
Great Canadian Coaches, Inc
370 Industrial Road
Cambridge, ON N3H 5T7
Ontario
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