FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When shopping for a company to handle your ground transportation, it can be hard to decipher between various options, which is why Windstar Lines has put together some motorcoach travel tips to assist you. Our first-class team of knowledgeable office staff will certainly help you every step of the way, but in the meantime, listed below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive:

Does the company carry the required amount of insurance?

Windstar Lines carries $10 million of liability coverage, which is twice the legal limit required by the Federal DOT. We are happy to provide you with a certificate of insurance that includes the amount we are covered for, as well as the effective policy dates.

How long has the company been in business?

Since 1981, the principal owners of Windstar Lines have owned a travel agency and tour company. In those businesses’ earlier years, they chartered motorcoaches from area coach operators, but were never satisfied with the cleanliness of equipment, friendliness of the drivers, or overall service. It was out of the necessity to bring a higher caliber experience to their customers that Windstar Lines began operation in 1995.

How do I know I'm choosing the right company for my motorcoach needs?

One of the best ways to learn about a company is by having a firsthand look at their equipment, people, and property. Take some time out of your day to drop by their facility and take a look at one of their coaches, their offices, and garage. You’ll be able to tell a lot about the company by what you see. Windstar Lines welcomes visits from current and potential customers. Feel free to stop by anytime!

What ways are there to check if a motorcoach company is safe?

Ask about the company’s DOT Safety Rating. It is easy to find a carrier’s safety rating on the internet. Go to SAFER and search by Company Name, USDOT number or MC number. The U.S. Department of Transportation issues safety ratings based on a company’s record and adherence to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. The highest rating possible is “Satisfactory.” Other ratings issued are “Conditional,” “Not Rated,” and “Unsatisfactory.” Windstar Lines is proud to have a DOT safety rating of Satisfactory. Our USDOT number is 608224 and our MC number is 292914.

Can Windstar accommodate large and small groups of people?

We are small enough to provide you with personalized service, yet large enough to take care of your needs. Windstar Lines operates almost 100 vehicles available for bus charter and rental.

What is the average age of the company’s equipment?

Windstar Lines operates over 100 vehicles available for bus charter and rental. The average age of our fleet is 8 years old. Our vans, motorcoaches, buses, and sleepers range from 2000 models to 2016 models. When comparing that to other companies, that's something we can be proud of!

Where can I find references for Windstar Lines?

Our Testimonial page is a great place to see what people have to say about their experiences and our services. If you're looking for something specific, give us a call! We're happy to help!

What is the company’s procedure for road failures?

Due to our preventative and stringent maintenance program, Windstar Lines boasts an extremely low road failure rate. Unfortunately, even on a brand new motorcoach, mechanical failures can happen. In order to ensure that our customers endure little to no inconvenience if this happens, Windstar Lines is well-networked with area carriers and has developed solid relationships with carriers throughout the nation. We are members of The United Motorcoach Association, American Bus Association, Midwest Bus & Motorcoach Association, Trax Captive Insurance Group, and can count on other members for support.

How easy is it to understand what I am being charged for my charter?

When you are entering a contract for service, it is a good idea to be aware of what exactly is included in the price. For example, look for things such as driver’s hotel room, tolls, parking fees, relief driver, extra mileage charges, and rate per mile included your quote. If you choose, Windstar Lines will itemize the costs of the trip. You will be aware of any charges above the quoted price of the trip.

What are the terms and cancellation policies of the contract once signed?

Windstar Lines requires a $250.00 or 10% deposit (whichever is greater) per coach to reserve equipment. If the group must cancel the motorcoach, the deposit is refundable as long as the trip is cancelled prior to 30 days before departure. For trips booked within 30 days of departure, our sales staff will work with each group to ensure the group has adequate time to promote their trip. Talk to your sales representative for individual attention.  

What are some additional services offered by Windstar?

We offer many services beyond charter trips and bus rentals. We are happy to provide hospital shuttle buses, hotel shuttle buses, parking lot shuttles, and campus/college shuttle buses. Just about any situation where you have a group of people that need transportation, we can help.

Windstar Motorcoach