With public confidence in Uber plummeting over their lack of background checks, the market for private transportation has been in unbridled freefall. That is until Blacklane hit the scene. This haute monde, licensed and insured, all-inclusive and international limo service connects thousands of passengers through its easy-to-use mobile app. Nick Walton books a ride to see the experience for himself.

Getting to the airport, or leaving one after your arrival, is a crucial aspect of the travel experience, one that can have a significant impact on your whole trip (especially if you miss your flight). That’s why many travellers, especially corporate road warriors, turn to transport companies like Blacklane that have an international reach and offer services in the cities business travellers are visiting. Offering competitive rates – often near or below a taxi fare – throughout 50 countries, and in 300 cities (including 500 airports) worldwide, the company offers a one-stop shop for corporate transport, whether it’s to the airport, intercity, or around the city.

Book a Ride

The booking process begins with Blacklane’s intuitive app, which is easy to use and reminds us of Uber’s user-friendly app. The technology allows a seamless booking process and a choice of vehicles based on need and budget. Once you select the vehicle type you want, a price is advised, inclusive of any tolls and tips, which is great when you’ve just arrived in a new country and haven’t had a chance to change currency.

A confirmation email quickly arrived after we booked our transfer from Toronto Pearson International into the city. Another email that arrived just before we boarded our flight advised the name of our driver and the licence plate number of the vehicle, although we were also using the Blacklane PASS service (read more about that here) which meant we would have a little help finding our driver, although there are also options for your driver to come in and meet you at arrivals. This, however, can lead to delays as they need to park and then collect the car again.

A Professional Network

Unlike Uber, Blacklane doesn’t contract private drivers, but instead works with a network of already-ratified limo companies, each having prior training in company policy and safety standards. This assured professionalism provides peace of mind, a smooth ride and impeccable road-sense from every chauffeur. Blacklane’s booking system is geared for inter-city transportation (hired by the hour) or airport transfers. Both services are conducted in stylish cars – such as a BMW 5-Series or a Mercedes V-Class SUV – and accompanied by a driver that’s appreciative of discretion and communication.

It isn’t just a well-vetted partnership structure and travelling comfort that sets Blacklane apart from the competition. Its booking service also includes a guarantee that the driver will be punctual and efficient; each booking can also be reserved or cancelled with only one hour’s notice – whereas most competitors require at least four hours. Lastly, airport pick up’s come with a one-hour wait time in case your flight is delayed. All of these extra amenities are provided with a service that typically costs less than half that of traditional limo companies, with a fraction of the hassle and a double-serving of luxury.

Leave Enough Time

One mistake many people make it being too ambitious with their pick up time; Blacklane drivers stay on site waiting for guests for 60 minutes, after which, if they can not contact the guest, they will leave on other bookings. We deliberately set an arrival time that was 40 minutes after our scheduled arrival time to give ourselves a buffer and we were perfectly timed for a smooth pick up. Our drive was well presented and articulate and chatted to us about Toronto without being invasive. It was great to get an intelligent insider’s perspective on the city.

Our driver arrived slightly early, which was perfect as we had anticipated longer immigration lines than encountered at Pearson, and we were quickly connected with our driver for the 40-minute drive into the city. The vehicle, a late model Cadillac, was spacious and a pleasure to drive in. When we reached our destination the driver was very helpful with our luggage and left us with a lasting impression of professionalism and luxury.

Summary

It’s not going to be the cheapest option but when time is money and you’re on the company clock, Blacklane is well geared to make one of the trickiest parts of the trip seamless, leaving you to focus on the work at hand.

Read more of our reviews here.