What Is a Transfer Service? Airport, Hotel, VIP and Intercity Transfers Compared
A transfer service means passengers are collected from a set point and taken to a pre-arranged address by a vehicle with a driver. We compare airport, hotel, VIP and intercity transfers.
A transfer service means that passengers are collected from a pre-arranged point and taken to a pre-arranged address by a vehicle with a driver. Unlike a taxi, the journey is planned in advance; unlike public transport, the vehicle works only for your group.
Types of transfer
Airport transfer
Passengers are met at or taken to the airport according to their flight times. For arrivals, the driver usually tracks the flight and waits for the passenger in the arrivals hall. For guests arriving as a group, luggage and delay planning is important; we cover this in our group airport transfer guide.
Hotel transfer
Transport between the hotel and the airport, bus station or event venue. Collecting guests from hotels and taking them to congresses, trade fairs or weddings is also included.
VIP transfer
A transfer in which a small number of passengers travel in a more spacious and comfortable vehicle. It is preferred for guest and executive meet-and-greet, protocol programmes and business travel. Details: VIP vehicle and Vito hire.
City transfer
Transport within the same city, for example between a hotel and a meeting room or a wedding venue. Details: city transfers.
Intercity transfer
Moving a group from one city to another. On long journeys, breaks, driver rest and luggage planning come to the fore. Details: intercity transfers.
Private versus shared transfers
| Private transfer | Shared transfer | |
|---|---|---|
| Passengers in the vehicle | Only your group | Passengers from different bookings |
| Departure time | According to your programme | When the vehicle is full or at set times |
| Route | Directly to your address | May stop at several addresses |
| Best for | Groups, families, corporate guests | Passengers travelling alone |
Chauffeured minibus, midibus and coach transfers are private transfers for groups.
What information is needed to arrange a transfer?
- Date, time and (for airport transfers) the flight number
- Number of passengers and luggage
- Pick-up and drop-off addresses
- Whether there is a return transfer
- Special requests such as a name sign for the meet-and-greet
You can send all this information in one go with the quote form.
