Do you think a driver and a chauffeur are practically the same thing? If so, you’re incorrect but you’re not the only one who thinks this. This is a common misconception that a lot of people have.
While a professional driver and a chauffeur are both hired to drive a passenger vehicle, there are some obvious differences between these two professions. Before you book or receive quotes for a professional driver service or corporate chauffeur service, you need to be fully aware of the differences between the services on offer.
What Services Does a Driver and Chauffeur Offer?
A driver is employed to drive a passenger vehicle, to get you from point A to point B, nothing more and nothing less. On the other hand, a chauffeur is employed to provide a service that extends far beyond simply driving a passenger wherever they want to go. They are there to serve your every need; from booking reservations and fetching items to making trips to shops, picking up dry cleaning, sourcing flowers, etc.
As long as your request is within the permits of the law, chauffeurs can run your errand or fulfill your specific request. If you want to take the scenic route to your chosen destination or take a detour, such requests are also permitted.
How Do Professional Drivers and Chauffeurs Dress?
A distinctive difference between a professional driver and a chauffeur is their appearance, namely their choice of uniform. A chauffeur is specifically required to look very polished, be well-groomed and dress in a pressed dark suit or tuxedo, dress shirt, tie, gloves (black or white) and dress shoes. They may also wear a hat and an overcoat that matches their suit during colder months.
A driver’s uniform tends to not be quite as formal. They will typically wear a standard suit or a shirt and/or jacket adorned with their company logo and branding accompanied with slacks and polished shoes.
What Vehicles Do Drivers and Chauffeurs Drive?
Chauffeurs are generally employed to transport clients in a luxury sedan, executive van or limousine to ensure the image of a professional, comfortable and confidential service is conveyed in all aspects of their service.
A driver service will usually operate a fleet of both standard and luxury vehicles where passengers can select the type of vehicle they wish to be transported in.
What Training is Provided to Drivers and Chauffeurs?
Anyone can be a driver but it takes expert training and several other criteria to become a chauffeur. A driver is simply hired to drive but a chauffeur is hired to serve so they are subject to much more extensive background checks.
Companies may also require that chauffeurs partake in etiquette training courses as well as extra driver training so that they can get themselves out of all kinds of situations that may arise e.g. changing a flat tire, driving in extreme conditions, etc.
What are the Main Advantages of a Chauffeur over a Driver?
With a chauffeur service, the focus isn’t specifically on just getting you to your chosen destination safely; it’s to deliver a superior standard of care and customer service from start to finish.
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