1. Buffalo Minibus Company /
  2. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in Buffalo

FAQS

Buffalo Minibus Company is one of the largest and most experienced charter bus companies in Buffalo, serving all five boroughs and beyond with a huge fleet of vehicles. We have been providing reliable group transportation since 2011 and have worked with thousands of groups across New York State. Our team is available 24/7 to help you plan your trip, answer any questions, and provide instant quotes over the phone. We offer flexible packages, modern amenities, and competitive pricing for every type of event or occasion. When you book with us, you get peace of mind knowing that your group will travel together comfortably and efficiently.

We serve all types of groups in Buffalo, including schools, universities, sports teams, corporations, wedding parties, religious organizations, government agencies, tour operators, and more. Whether you need transportation for a field trip to the Buffalo Zoo, a wedding at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, a corporate shuttle to downtown offices, or a fan bus to a Bills game at Highmark Stadium, we can handle it. Our fleet includes vehicles of every size and style, so we can accommodate groups of 10 or 1,000+ with ease. No matter where you’re going or how many people you’re bringing, we’ll get you there on time and hassle-free.

A charter bus is a large motorcoach designed to transport groups of people long distances in comfort and style. These buses typically seat 40-56 passengers and come equipped with amenities like cushioned seats, climate control, overhead storage, undercarriage luggage bays, restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, PA systems, and entertainment options such as TVs and DVD players. Charter buses are ideal for moving big groups around Buffalo for events like weddings, conventions, sports games, school trips, and tours. They provide a private, customizable, and cost-effective way to keep everyone together and on schedule.

A minibus is a smaller version of a charter bus that usually seats between 15 and 35 passengers. It offers many of the same features as a full-size coach, such as comfortable seats, air conditioning, and optional WiFi or AV equipment, but in a more compact package. Minibuses are perfect for shuttling small groups around town, whether it’s a bridal party moving between venues, a corporate team commuting from a park-and-ride lot, or a youth sports squad heading to a tournament. They’re easier to maneuver in city traffic and can access tighter spaces than larger buses, making them a versatile choice for short-distance trips within Buffalo.

Most charter buses in our fleet have between 40 and 56 seats, depending on the make and model. The most common sizes are 47-passenger, 50-passenger, and 55-passenger coaches. These buses are great for moving large groups efficiently, whether you’re organizing a school trip to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, a company outing to Canalside, or a fan caravan to see the Sabres at KeyBank Center. If you need something even bigger, we also have double-decker buses and articulated coaches that can hold up to 80 people each. Just let us know how many seats you need, and we’ll match you with the right vehicle.

Our minibuses come in several sizes, with seating capacities ranging from 15 to 35 passengers. Popular configurations include 18-seat, 24-seat, and 30-seat models. These vehicles are ideal for small-to-medium-sized groups who want a private ride without renting a full-size bus. For example, you could use an 18-passenger minibus for a bachelor party bar crawl on Chippewa Street, a 24-passenger minibus for a church picnic at Delaware Park, or a 30-passenger minibus for a day trip to Niagara Falls. Each minibus offers comfortable seating and enough room for carry-on bags.

Our fleet includes a wide variety of buses to suit any group size or budget. We have full-size charter buses (40-56 seats), minibuses (15-35 seats), party buses (10-40 seats), sprinter vans (8-15 seats), and specialty vehicles like double-deckers and trolleys. Each type of bus comes with different features and layouts, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. For example, a 56-passenger coach is perfect for transporting an entire wedding guest list, while a 20-passenger minibus is great for getting coworkers to a conference at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. No matter what kind of bus you’re looking for, we have it ready to roll.

We offer a range of modern amenities to make your ride more enjoyable and productive. Standard features include reclining seats, individual reading lights, overhead parcel racks, and powerful HVAC systems. Most of our buses also come with free WiFi, USB charging ports, electrical outlets, flat-screen monitors, DVD players, and Bluetooth-enabled sound systems. If you want to watch movies, stream music, or hold a meeting en route, we’ve got you covered. Additional options include onboard restrooms, hardwood floors, leather upholstery, LED accent lighting, and even mini-fridges or coffee makers upon request. Just tell us what you need, and we’ll customize your rental accordingly.

Yes, most of our newer buses are equipped with AUX inputs and/or Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily play your own playlists through the vehicle’s speakers. This is perfect for setting the mood during a wedding shuttle, pumping up athletes before a big game, or simply passing the time on a long drive down the Thruway. If having a specific type of audio hookup is important to you, please mention it when booking, and we’ll make sure your bus has the right setup. For older models that may not have built-in Bluetooth, we can provide adapters or portable speakers as needed.

Charter buses typically have large underfloor storage bays that can hold multiple suitcases, duffel bags, coolers, and equipment cases—enough for everyone onboard to bring a full-size checked bag plus a carry-on. Overhead racks inside the cabin provide additional space for backpacks, purses, and small items. Minibuses have less cargo capacity but still offer room for several pieces of luggage behind the rear seats or in dedicated compartments. If your group is traveling with oversized gear like skis, instruments, or trade show displays, please let us know in advance so we can assign a bus with extra storage or arrange for a separate trailer if necessary.

Absolutely! We believe everyone deserves safe, convenient transportation regardless of mobility challenges. That’s why we offer ADA-compliant buses equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, securement areas, wider aisles, and accessible restrooms. These features ensure that passengers who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices can board, ride, and disembark comfortably and independently. If you require an accessible vehicle, please specify your needs when requesting a quote so we can reserve the appropriate bus and schedule any additional accommodations. We’re committed to making your trip as inclusive and barrier-free as possible.

Yes, you can wrap your charter bus with custom graphics, logos, or advertisements for an additional fee. Bus wraps are a great way to promote your brand, celebrate a special occasion, or create a cohesive look for your group. Whether you’re organizing a political campaign, launching a new product, or just want to make a splash at a parade, we can help you design and install a full or partial wrap that turns heads. Please note that wrapping requires extra lead time and must comply with local regulations regarding signage and visibility. Contact us for details on pricing and specifications.

We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific bus models, makes, or colors based on availability. Our fleet includes vehicles from leading manufacturers like MCI, Prevost, Van Hool, Temsa, Grech, and Champion, in a variety of finishes including white, black, silver, and custom paint jobs. If you have a preference for a certain brand (e.g., “I want a Setra S417”) or need all your shuttles to match aesthetically, please let us know when booking. While we cannot guarantee every request due to scheduling and fleet rotation, we strive to meet your specifications whenever possible.

The cost of renting a charter bus in Buffalo depends on several factors, including the size of the vehicle, length of the trip, number of hours or days needed, and time of year. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $300 per hour for a full-size coach, with daily rates ranging from $1,200 to $2,500. For multi-day excursions, we offer discounted package deals that lower the per-day price. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to call us with your itinerary and passenger count, so we can provide a customized quote tailored to your specific needs.

Minibus rentals are generally more affordable than larger coaches, with hourly rates starting around $125 and daily rates between $900 and $1,800 depending on the size and features of the vehicle. Factors that influence pricing include distance traveled, duration of service, and any optional amenities requested. For example, a simple point-to-point shuttle within city limits will cost less than an all-day charter to Rochester or Syracuse. We aim to offer competitive rates that fit within your budget while delivering exceptional value and service. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote on your next minibus rental.

Several variables impact the final price of a bus rental, including: Vehicle type and capacity (larger buses cost more); Trip length and mileage (longer distances increase fuel and wear-and-tear costs); Duration of service (hourly vs. daily vs. weekly rates); Seasonality (peak demand periods like summer and holidays may carry surcharges); Pickup and drop-off locations (out-of-area pickups may incur deadhead fees); Optional amenities (premium features like leather seats, advanced AV systems, or custom wraps add to the base rate); and Special requests (ADA accessibility, extra luggage space, or multiple stops). We break down all charges transparently in your quote so there are no surprises.

Our quotes are comprehensive and all-inclusive, covering the use of the bus for the agreed-upon time frame, driver labor, fuel, standard amenities, tolls, and taxes. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges—what you see is what you pay. The only things not included are optional extras such as parking permits, entrance tickets, overnight accommodations for the driver (if applicable), gratuities, and damage waivers. We believe in upfront pricing and clear communication, so you can budget confidently and avoid unexpected expenses. If you have any questions about what’s covered, just ask.

We recommend booking your bus as early as possible, ideally 3 to 6 months before your planned departure date. This gives you the widest selection of vehicles and the best rates, especially during busy seasons like graduation, wedding, and holiday periods. Last-minute reservations are sometimes available, but choices may be limited and prices higher due to increased demand. For major events or peak weekends (e.g., Bills home games, Taste of Buffalo festival), securing transportation well ahead of time is essential to guarantee availability. If you’re unsure of your exact headcount or schedule, we can hold a reservation with estimated numbers and adjust details later as needed.

Yes, we offer flexible rental options to suit any itinerary. You can book a one-way transfer (e.g., airport pickup), a round-trip excursion (e.g., day tour to Niagara Falls), or a multi-day package (e.g., weeklong road trip across upstate New York). We also provide recurring shuttles for ongoing needs such as daily employee commutes or seasonal festival loops. Whatever your schedule, we’ll work with you to create a custom plan that meets your timing and budget requirements. Our goal is to make group travel simple and convenient, no matter how complex the logistics.

Absolutely! Our buses regularly travel to destinations all over the Northeast and beyond, including Toronto, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and New York City. Long-distance charters are a cost-effective alternative to flying or taking multiple cars, allowing your group to stay together and enjoy the journey. Onboard amenities like WiFi, restrooms, and entertainment systems make even the longest rides comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a cross-country tour or just heading downstate for a weekend, we’ve got the wheels to get you there safely and on time.

If your itinerary requires overnight stays away from Buffalo, you are responsible for providing lodging for the driver(s) at a hotel of reasonable quality (minimum 3-star rating). This ensures they have a comfortable place to rest between shifts and remain alert behind the wheel. Many hotels offer discounted or complimentary rooms for bus drivers accompanying large groups, so be sure to inquire when making reservations. Alternatively, we can add the cost of accommodation to your invoice and handle the booking ourselves if you prefer. For single-day trips without overnight layovers, no separate arrangements are necessary.

Getting a quote is quick and easy—just call our office at 716-468-6120 or fill out the online form on our website with your trip details. We’ll need to know the date(s) of travel, pickup and drop-off locations, number of passengers, and any special requests or preferences. Based on this information, we’ll generate a personalized estimate and send it to you within minutes. There’s no obligation to book until you’re ready, and we’re happy to revise the quote as needed if your plans change. Our staff is available 24/7 to assist with quotes, questions, and bookings.

Plan your itinerary carefully, including exact addresses and timing for each stop. Communicate any special requirements (e.g., ADA access, extra luggage, specific amenities) upfront. Book early, especially for events during peak season or major holidays. Confirm parking arrangements at all destinations—some venues may require permits or have height restrictions. Budget for incidental expenses like driver lodging, tolls, and gratuities. Stay in touch with your account manager leading up to the trip to finalize headcounts and schedules. By following these tips, you’ll ensure a smooth and successful charter experience from start to finish.

We provide ground transportation to and from all major airports in the region, including Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG), Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) across the border. Whether you’re flying in a delegation for a convention or sending a youth group overseas, we’ll coordinate seamless transfers between the terminal and your hotel or meeting site. Skip the hassle of taxis, rideshares, or public transit—our buses will be waiting curbside when you land, ready to load your bags and hit the road.

Sports fans rely on us for hassle-free transportation to games and tournaments at venues like Highmark Stadium (home of the Buffalo Bills), KeyBank Center (Buffalo Sabres hockey), Sahlen Field (Buffalo Bisons baseball), and LECOM Harborcenter (youth hockey). We also serve college athletic facilities at UB Stadium, Alumni Arena, and D’Youville College Athletic Complex. Avoid the headache of traffic jams and overpriced parking by riding together in a charter bus. Tailgating supplies, coolers, and banners are welcome aboard—just remember to clean up after the celebration!

Catch your favorite artists live at top concert venues such as Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Town Ballroom, Buffalo RiverWorks, Artpark Amphitheater, Darien Lake Amphitheater, Rapids Theatre, Tralf Music Hall, and Sportsmen’s Tavern. Our buses can drop your group off right at the entrance and pick you up when the encore ends, eliminating the need for designated drivers or split-up carpools. Enjoy the show knowing that your ride home is taken care of.

Make your special day even more memorable with elegant transportation to popular wedding venues like The Mansion on Delaware Avenue, Hotel Henry, The Admiral Room, Statler City, Pearl Street Grill & Brewery, Avanti Mansion, Foundry Suites, Marcy Casino, Knox Farm State Park, Becker Farms, HayLoft in the Grove, Kloc’s Grove, Samuel’s Grande Manor, and Glenora Wine Cellars (Finger Lakes). We handle guest shuttles between hotels, ceremony sites, and reception halls so everyone arrives safely and on time. Custom packages available for bachelor/bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, and post-reception send-offs.

In addition to Buffalo proper, we serve surrounding communities across Western New York, including Amherst, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, Kenmore, Lackawanna, West Seneca, Hamburg, Orchard Park, Williamsville, Clarence, Grand Island, Niagara Falls, Lockport, Lancaster, Depew, East Aurora, and Batavia. We also operate long-distance routes to cities like Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Binghamton, Ithaca, Elmira, Jamestown, Olean, and even cross-border destinations in Ontario such as St. Catharines, Hamilton, Mississauga, and Toronto. Wherever your travels take you, our buses can get you there.

From annual festivals to one-time spectacles, we provide transportation for events of all sizes and themes. Examples include Taste of Buffalo, Allentown Art Festival, Elmwood Avenue Festival of the Arts, National Buffalo Wing Festival, Dyngus Day Parade, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Juneteenth Celebration, Italian Heritage Festival, Music Is Art, Borderland Festival, Beau Fleuve Music & Arts, Garden Walk Buffalo, Pride Parade, and First Night New Year’s Eve. We can also arrange shuttles for charity runs, political rallies, religious gatherings, and more. Event planners love working with us because we deliver punctual, professional service every time.

Business travelers and conference organizers trust us to move attendees to and from major convention centers such as the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, Hyatt Regency Buffalo, Marriott Harborcenter, Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, and Millennium Hotel Cheektowaga. We can set up continuous loops between hotels and meeting venues, provide VIP transfers for keynote speakers, or arrange offsite excursions for team-building activities. Onboard WiFi allows passengers to catch up on emails or review presentations en route.

We proudly serve educational institutions at every level, including University at Buffalo (North and South Campuses), Buffalo State College, Canisius College, D’Youville University, Medaille University, Villa Maria College, SUNY Erie Community College (City, North, South Campuses), Niagara University, Daemen University, Trocaire College, Bryant & Stratton College, and local K-12 districts such as Buffalo Public Schools, Sweet Home, Williamsville, Amherst, Clarence, Lancaster, Frontier, and Orchard Park. Whether it’s a daily commuter shuttle, field trip, athletic competition, or campus tour, we provide safe, reliable transportation for students, faculty, and staff.