02/02/2016
Your Definitive Guide to Car Rental with Driver in China
Navigating China's vast landscapes and bustling cities can be an adventure in itself. For travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and a truly immersive experience, car rental with a driver stands out as an exceptional choice. TB China Chauffeured Car Hire specialises in providing just that, covering major cities across the country. Whether your visit is for business, pleasure, or a combination of both, understanding the nuances of this service can significantly enhance your trip.
This comprehensive guide will delve into what China car rental with driver entails, covering everything from the types of vehicles and drivers available to booking procedures, payment options, and essential tips for a smooth journey. We'll also touch upon related topics like the cost of new cars in China and shipping vehicles internationally.
What is China Car Rental with Driver?
At its core, China Car Rental with Driver, as exemplified by services like TB China Chauffeured Car Hire, is a service that provides you with a private vehicle and a professional, licensed driver for your transportation needs within China. This isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about offering a comprehensive travel solution that includes:
- Airport, Railway Station, and Sea-Port Transfers: Seamlessly transition from your arrival point to your accommodation or next destination.
- Sightseeing Tours: Explore China's iconic landmarks and hidden gems with a knowledgeable driver who can navigate efficiently.
- Business Meetings: Arrive at your appointments punctually and in comfort, projecting a professional image.
- Casual Travel: Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, with a dedicated driver handling all the navigation and parking.
The emphasis is on providing a high-quality, reliable, and hassle-free transportation experience, removing the complexities of self-driving in an unfamiliar country.
Key Features and Benefits
Opting for a chauffeured service offers several distinct advantages:
- Comprehensive Inclusions: Reputable providers like TB China Chauffeured Car Hire often include full insurance, all necessary taxes, road tax, 24-hour breakdown assistance, and airport location fees. Crucially, they aim for no hidden extras, providing transparent pricing.
- Professional Drivers: Drivers are typically licensed with extensive experience (often over 5 years). They are trained to select the most efficient routes, adhere to local traffic regulations, and ensure safe driving practices. Many are also familiar with the regions they operate in, offering insights beyond just navigation.
- Vehicle Variety: Services cater to different group sizes and preferences. This can range from standard cars for individuals or couples to vans for small groups, and larger coaches for bigger parties. All vehicles are generally air-conditioned, well-maintained, clean, and equipped to carry standard luggage.
- Convenient Booking: Modern services offer flexible booking options, including online forms, email, and telephone. Payment methods are also diverse, often including secure online payments via PayPal, credit card (Visa, MasterCard), and wire transfers.
Understanding the Vehicles and Drivers
The choice of vehicle and the quality of the driver are paramount to a positive experience. Here's a closer look:
Vehicle Options:
Providers typically offer a tiered system based on the number of passengers:
| Party Size | Vehicle Type |
|---|---|
| 1-2 passengers | Cars |
| 3-5 passengers | Vans |
| 6-15 passengers | 22-seat coach |
| 16-25 passengers | 33-seat coach |
| 26-45 passengers | 55-seat coach |
All vehicles are expected to be air-conditioned, regularly serviced, and kept in excellent condition. They are licensed and insured for commercial passenger transport.
Driver Qualifications:
Drivers are the backbone of this service. Key attributes include:
- Licensing and Experience: Possess official driving licenses and a minimum of 5 years of driving experience.
- Route Efficiency: Skilled in selecting the best routes, considering traffic conditions.
- Safety Conscious: Strictly observe local traffic laws and regulations.
- Professional Demeanour: Properly dressed, refrain from smoking, eating, or drinking while passengers are present.
- Language Skills: While most drivers speak basic English, some may have limited English proficiency. For those requiring more in-depth interaction or specific guidance, hiring a separate tour guide is often recommended.
Booking Your Car Rental with Driver
The booking process is designed to be straightforward:
- Online Booking: Many companies offer online booking forms where you can specify your requirements, destinations, dates, and number of passengers.
- Email or Phone: You can also send your travel requests via email or call their dedicated hotlines. This is particularly useful for custom itineraries or specific queries.
- Trip Advisors: Upon submitting your request, trip advisors or customer service representatives will contact you (via email or phone) to confirm details, provide quotes, and finalize the booking. Expect a one-to-one real person contact for personalised service.
- Confirmation: Once booked, you will receive a confirmation email detailing your itinerary, vehicle, driver information, and agreed-upon prices.
Payment Methods
Flexibility in payment is a hallmark of good service:
- Prepayment: Typically required to secure your reservation.
- Online Payment: Secure platforms like PayPal are often available.
- Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted, often processed via email or fax for bookings.
- Wire Transfer: Bank wire transfers are also an option, with details provided upon booking.
- Currency: Both Chinese Yuan (RMB) and major foreign currencies like USD are usually accepted.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is not mandatory but is generally appreciated for good service:
- Drivers: A common guideline is around RMB 50 per day.
- Tour Guides: If you hire a guide, RMB 80 per day is a suggested amount.
- Hotel Bellboys: RMB 5 per piece of luggage is customary.
These are merely reference points, and the amount ultimately depends on your satisfaction with the service provided.
China Car Rental Tips
To make the most of your chauffeured experience:
- Confirm Inclusions: Double-check what is included in your quote (insurance, tolls, driver's expenses, etc.) to avoid surprises.
- Communicate Clearly: Provide precise details for pick-up and drop-off locations, flight/train numbers, and any special requests.
- Learn Basic Phrases: While drivers are professional, knowing a few basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
- Consider a Tour Guide: If you plan extensive sightseeing or require detailed historical/cultural context, hiring an English-speaking tour guide in addition to your driver is highly recommended.
- Stay Flexible: While drivers aim for efficiency, unexpected traffic or road closures can occur. Maintaining a degree of flexibility is key.
While this service focuses on rental with a driver, understanding the broader automotive landscape in China can be informative:
Cost of New Cars in China:
The automotive market in China is dynamic. For example, the 2020 Facelift Haval H9 was priced between 209,800 and 272,800 yuan (approximately US$29,711 – US$38,633). Prices vary significantly based on brand, model, specifications, and market demand.
Shipping a Car to China:
For individuals or businesses looking to bring their own vehicles to China, international car shipping services are available. Companies like West Coast Shipping specialize in container shipping and air freight from the USA to major Chinese ports such as Dalian, Tianjin, and Xingang. This process involves significant logistics, including customs clearance, documentation, and transportation, and is typically handled by experienced international shipping providers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do the drivers speak English?
Most drivers have basic English skills for communication. However, for in-depth conversations or complex instructions, hiring a dedicated tour guide is advisable.
Q2: What types of vehicles are available?
A range of vehicles is offered, from standard cars for small groups to vans and coaches for larger parties, catering to different passenger capacities.
Q3: Are there any hidden costs?
Reputable services aim for transparency and typically include insurance, taxes, and fees in their quotes, with no hidden extras.
Q4: How do I pay for the service?
Common payment methods include secure online payments (PayPal), credit cards (Visa, MasterCard), and bank wire transfers. Prepayment is usually required.
Q5: Is tipping the driver or guide mandatory?
Tipping is not compulsory but is customary and appreciated for good service. Guidelines are provided for reference.
Q6: Can I book a custom tour?
Yes, most providers allow for customized itineraries. Contact them directly via email or phone to discuss your specific travel needs.
In conclusion, China Car Rental with Driver offers a sophisticated and convenient way to explore the country. By understanding the services, vehicles, drivers, and booking processes, travellers can ensure a comfortable, safe, and memorable journey through China.
If you want to read more articles similar to China Car Hire: Your Guide to Chauffeured Travel, you can visit the Automotive category.