Sanford Airport Transport Options

Arriving at Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) means you're one step closer to your Florida adventure. But how do you get from the airport to your final destination? Whether you're heading to the theme parks, a local hotel, or a different city, understanding your transportation options is key to a smooth journey. This guide will break down everything you need to know about getting around from Sanford Airport, ensuring you can make an informed decision about the best way to travel.

Official Pickup Zones at Sanford Airport

Upon arrival at Sanford Airport, the designated pickup zone for all ride-sharing services, taxis, and pre-arranged shuttles is conveniently located across the street from the Baggage Claim areas, specifically zones 1-3. This centralized area makes it easy to find your transport quickly and efficiently.

Taxi Services

Taxis are a reliable option for getting to and from Sanford Airport, serving all area airports, hotels, resorts, restaurants, sporting events, malls, and amusement parks across Central Florida. For taxi services, you can call 407-422-2222. Sedan taxis can typically accommodate up to 4 passengers, while minivans offer seating for up to 7 people, making them suitable for larger groups or those with extra luggage.

Rideshare Services

Popular ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft are readily available at Sanford Airport. The pickup and drop-off sites are the same as for taxis, located across the street from baggage claim areas 1-3. Using a rideshare service can often be a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, especially if you're familiar with the app.

Hotel Shuttle Services

Many hotels in the Orlando and Kissimmee areas provide complimentary shuttle services to and from Sanford International Airport. These shuttles are a fantastic way to save time and money on your transfer. It's highly recommended to inquire about your hotel's shuttle service when making your reservation. You can often find more information about lodging alternatives and available services on the hotel's specific website.

Orlando Attractions Shuttle Service

For travellers heading to the renowned theme parks and attractions, the Orlando Attractions Shuttle Service offers a quick and convenient way to reach your destinations. This service is ideal for those visiting parks such as Disney Parks & Resorts, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, and attractions like the Bay Hill Club & Lodge. These shuttles can be a more budget-friendly option for those who don't mind making multiple stops and sharing the ride with other passengers.

Mears Orlando Shuttle Service is a well-known provider in the area. If you have any questions regarding their services, you can contact them at 407-423-5566. Passengers who are comfortable with shared rides and multiple stops can often find significant savings with these services.

Understanding Pickup Times and Procedures

When arranging for a pickup, whether from the airport or a cruise port, it's important to understand the process:

• Ready for Pickup: Once you have your bags and are ready, call the number provided on your confirmation. Inform the agent that your party is ready.
• Driver Notification: The agent will notify your driver, who will then contact you via the cell phone number you provided when entering the airport or port.
• Meeting Your Driver: Your confirmation will specify the exact meeting point. Drivers are typically located in the arrivals areas as designated by the airport or port authority. For international travellers, a meet and greet service is often provided in the arrivals area.
• Departing from Hotels/Residences: If you are being picked up from a hotel or residence, there's no need to call ahead. Simply be ready at your scheduled pickup time, with your cell phone on in case the driver needs to reach you.

Are Pickup Times Exact?

No, transportation companies cannot guarantee exact, on-the-dot pickup times. Numerous variables can affect schedules, making all times estimates. Companies strive to meet these estimates as closely as possible.

What if I Arrive Early?

If you arrive early at the airport or disembark a ship early and refuse to wait for your scheduled time, no refund or discount will be given. The company needs to service all customers according to their bookings.

Canadian Customer Considerations

A common issue arises with Canadian customers who are hesitant to use their cell phones in the U.S. due to roaming charges. It is essential to contact your cell phone provider before leaving Canada to enable U.S. calling. Failure to do so may result in a $75.00 'meet and greet' fee if the driver has to park and find you. This can cause significant delays for other passengers.

When to Schedule Airport Pickups

• Domestic Flights: Schedule your pickup approximately 30 minutes after your flight's arrival.
• International Flights: Allow 1 hour after your flight's arrival before scheduling your pickup.

When to Schedule Port Pickups

• To a Hotel/Residence: Pickups to hotels or residences typically start around 10:00 AM. It's best to be towards the rear of the disembarkation process to allow flight passengers to be prioritized.
• Catching a Flight Home: To allow ample time for TSA screening, schedule your airport arrival at least 2 hours before your flight. You must arrive at the airport no later than 1 hour prior to your flight for airlines to accept your luggage. Drivers begin pickups at the port at 8:00 AM, regardless of early disembarkation.
• To the Port: Pickups to the port commence between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM. Most ports do not allow drop-offs before 11:00 AM, and porters will not handle luggage until that time. Arriving too early may result in being dropped off at the far end of the parking lot. Embarkation usually begins between 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM. A $75.00 surcharge may apply for pickups before 10:30 AM if not for an approved early port reason.
• Latest Pickup from Port: The latest pickup from the port is 10:00 AM, to allow for ship clearance and preparation for the next sailing.

Vehicle Identification and Communication

Your driver will inform you about the vehicle's appearance when they call you. If you are using a different phone number than the one provided at booking, you must notify the company in advance so they can relay this information to your driver. Drivers are not permitted to wait directly outside baggage claim or port terminals due to regulations.

Luggage and Special Requirements

Standard allowances typically include one checked bag and one carry-on per person. Additional luggage may incur extra charges. If you are travelling with a folding wheelchair or scooter, you must inform the company at the time of booking. You may need to book the largest available van to accommodate these items, and sometimes only one item may fit. ADA-accessible vehicles are available in certain locations at different pricing.

Pricing and Payment

The pricing is generally all-inclusive, covering tolls, airport/port fees, and a 10% driver gratuity for private transfers. Additional gratuity can be given directly to the driver. If you are travelling with a large group, opting for multiple vans instead of a minibus or motor coach is possible, though each van will be charged at the highest rate for the transfer, regardless of the number of passengers within it.

All reservations are charged at the time of booking using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). Drivers do not accept cash payments. Using more than two credit cards for a single reservation may incur an additional $5.00 charge per card over two.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

All travel is subject to a cancellation fee. Cancellations or changes made within 3 days of the first departure are non-refundable for any reason, including flight delays or medical emergencies. Cancellations made outside of this 3-day window will incur a minimum fee of $35.00 or 10% of the total reservation, whichever is greater, depending on various factors. All cancellations must be made in writing via email; phone cancellations are not accepted.

Holiday Travel: A 20% surcharge applies for services on Christmas Day (December 25th) and New Year's Day (January 1st). Reservations scheduled between December 20th and January 6th are entirely non-refundable once placed.

Rental Car Returns

If you need to return a rental car, many companies offer complimentary pick-up services. You should call your specific rental location directly at least 24 hours in advance to make arrangements. Be prepared to provide precise details such as your address, desired pickup time, and a contact phone number. Note that off-airport locations cannot pick you up if there's a Budget location at the airport itself.

Sanford Airport Contact Information

For general inquiries about Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), you can use the following contact details:

• Address: Orlando Sanford Intl (SFB), Sanford, FL 32773, USA
• Phone: 407-585-4000, 407-585-4500, 407-585-4045, 407-585-4545
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.orlandosanfordairport.com

With this comprehensive overview, you should be well-equipped to navigate your transportation needs from Sanford Airport and ensure a smooth start to your Florida visit.