How to Choose the Right Valet Parking Service!

When planning your event, it’s important to make sure the valet parking company you choose can comfortably accommodate all of your guests. On average, guests tend to arrive at a rate of about one per minute, which means staffing levels play a key role in keeping things running smoothly.

At Parking Management Services of America (PMSA), we typically recommend one valet parking attendant for every 15 guests. For example, if you’re expecting 60 guests, we suggest a minimum of four attendants. This ensures an efficient flow of traffic and a seamless experience for everyone.

A professional valet parking service in Los Angeles should provide:

• A warm, welcoming greeting for your guests
• Secure collection of keys and vehicle parking
• Proper tagging and organization of keys
• Quick return of vehicles when requested

For larger gatherings or events where many guests are expected to arrive at the same time, additional attendants are essential to avoid delays. Ultimately, the comfort and convenience of your guests should always come first—and the right valet company will make sure of it.

The client should also ensure that the valet parking services in Los Angeles are bonded and equipped with insurance. This includes a surety bond, workman’s compensation, and garage keeper’s legal and general liability. Remember the word negligent. Even if the valet operator has insurance coverage, it is important to note that in the event of a claim, if it is determined that the valet company was negligent in its actions, the insurance carrier will deny the claim. Consequently, the person or business hiring that company can then be sued. Examples of negligence can include unlicensed or intoxicated drivers. It may also include drivers not authorized for employment, or operations where the proper permits were not obtained.

The valet company should also carry a valid Los Angeles Police Permit. Ask to see the Valet Parking Company’s “Police Permit”. This is a very important license that any reputable valet contractor will have. If they cannot provide you with one, this is usually a “RED FLAG!”

Proper appearance and interaction should be provided by the valet attendants to the guests. The valet parking company’s parking attendant services should communicate professionally with the guest. They should always look professional, especially in a professional event or a formal party. The client should find valet parking services from a company that has excellent customer service. They should employ friendly and clean-cut attendants.

Another thing to do is to request for references. Reputable valet parking services in Los Angeles will definitely be willing to provide a potential client with a list of its past customers. The potential client can then contact those customers to find out if they were happy with the services provided by the valet parking company.

Uniforms are also important and should cater to your event (casual vs. formal). Remember that lower prices usually equal cutting corners. These can be anywhere from hiring unlicensed drivers. It may also include drivers who cannot speak or interact with your guests, or even the valet company using undocumented employees.

These are just some of the things to look for. Remember the old golden rule; you get what you pay for! If you do not want to worry about finding the wrong company, and possibly being sued because of your hired valet parking company, contact us today. As a member of the National Parking Association (NPA) and the Better Business Bureau, Parking Management Services of America will help direct your business accordingly.