Busrental.net’s Guide To Charter Bus Loading & Parking

When planning a group trip that requires a charter bus, one aspect of trip planning that often gets overlooked is where your bus will load and unload passengers. However, putting some thought into your loading locations and parking arrangements ahead of time will ensure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish. The charter bus experts at Busrental.net have put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of charter bus loading and parking.

Know Your Terminology

Before determining your loading and parking logistics, it’s important to understand the terminology involved. There are designated areas for staging, loading/unloading, idling and parking. Knowing the difference will make it easier to plan:

Staging Areas:

Staging areas are where your bus will wait prior to picking up passengers at the loading area. For busy venues and events, a staging area prevents traffic backups by keeping buses from lingering in active loading zones before their passengers are ready to board. If your destination has a designated staging area, your driver will arrive 10-15 minutes early and wait there until your group is ready to load the bus.

Loading/Unloading Zones:

Loading zones are where passengers actually embark and disembark the bus. These are not meant for long-term parking or staging. Most loading zones have 5-15 minute time limits to keep traffic flowing smoothly. When your bus arrives, be ready to load up quickly!

Idling:

Idling refers to when a bus is stopped with the engine running but not in motion. Many states limit how long buses can idle, usually 3-10 minutes. Keep idling regulations in mind when telling your driver when and where to meet your group.

Parking Areas:

Parking areas are for longer-term bus storage, like overnight or when your bus won't be needed for a period of time during your trip. Public lots and private hotels that accommodate oversized vehicles are your best options for parking a charter bus.

Research Your Destination’s Regulations

When traveling to a busy city or tourist attraction, research ahead of time if there are any restrictions on large vehicles like charter buses. Many cities have certain areas, often historic districts, that prohibit motorcoaches. There also may be permits or fees required for loading, unloading or parking a charter bus. Ask if your hotel or venues require oversized vehicle permits. Knowing the lay of the land will prevent any surprises!

Have Multiple Loading Zones Planned

For trips visiting multiple attractions or venues, map out loading/unloading zones near each destination. Even if attractions are walkable distances apart, having a pickup/dropoff point eliminates any confusion. Drivers can’t load just anywhere, so research designated loading zones closest to your stops. For extra efficiency, group closer attractions together on your itinerary to consolidate loading needs.

Seek Out Public Transit Lots

Major metro areas often have large public parking lots or garages for local buses and transit vehicles. These lots will have space to accommodate charter buses as well. Public transit centers and park-and-rides are a great option if your hotel doesn’t permit bus parking. Just make sure overnight parking is allowed if your bus will be parked for extended periods.

Look For Stadium & Arena Parking

Sports arenas and convention centers that host large events will likely have charter bus parking available. Make sure it isn’t restricted on game days or during major conventions. Nearby shopping malls are also a good place to look for expansive parking lots. Call ahead to ask about fees and overnight parking options.

Research Hotel Accommodations

When booking hotel rooms, ask if they can accommodate your charter bus onsite overnight. Ideally book your driver’s room at the same property. If bus parking isn’t available, look into hotels with lots that can fit an oversized vehicle nearby. You'll need to arrange and pay for taxi transportation for your driver between the separate properties.

Consider Amenities On Board

When parking away from hotels, think about amenities your driver may need. Having an onboard restroom means they won’t have to worry about public restrooms late at night. If your bus will be parked away from their lodging, include an hourly rate in your contract to cover taxi rides back and forth.

Plan For Cruise Ports & Airports

Cruise ports and airports usually have designated spaces for unloading charter bus passengers. Make sure your driver knows to proceed to the separate bus terminals instead of passenger drop-offs. For airport arrivals, your bus can wait in a cell phone lot or airport parking until notified of your group’s arrival.

Stay Organized During Your Trip

During your charter bus trip, keep the bus driver updated on any timing changes or adjustments to the itinerary. If you’re running behind, give them a courtesy call or text to avoid idling or keeping them waiting unnecessarily. When possible, have a trip organizer ride the bus to relay messages and answer questions.

Remind passengers to be punctual arriving to loading zones at designated times. Many urban areas prohibit idling longer than 5-10 minutes, so builds in buffer time in your timeline. For efficiency, have all luggage loaded and ready to go before the bus arrives for boarding.

On travel days between cities, provide the driver with their confirmed lodging accommodations and give them time to check in before unloading passengers and luggage at the next hotel!

Busrental.net Has Your Loading & Parking Needs Covered

The experienced team at Busrental.net knows how frustrating loading logistics can be for group trip planners. That’s why we make the process as smooth and seamless as possible. Our extensive nationwide coach network means we have relationships and knowledge of cities big and small to guide you through the process. We’ll ensure your driver knows where and when to be to keep your trip on track. For a hassle-free group trip from start to finish, let the Busrental.net team put our years of charter bus expertise to work for you. Whether you need transportation for a corporate event, family reunion or youth tournament, we’ll pair you with the perfect bus and plan your optimal loading arrangements. Call 877-200-4461 to get a free quote on your next charter bus rental!