We have grouped the questions by topic. Use the topic links to jump to the part you need, or read straight through if you are planning your first journey with us.
Many questions depend on the type of trip. Our dedicated pages go into more detail on Heathrow transfers, school runs, travelling with pets and booking a 7 seater for groups.
Booking
How far in advance should I book?
For local journeys, a few hours ahead is usually enough, and we can often send a car sooner. For early-morning airport runs, school runs and larger vehicles, book a day or more ahead so that the right car and driver are planned in.
Can I book a taxi for someone else?
Yes. Enter the passenger's name and mobile number in the booking so that the driver can contact them directly, and add your own details as the person paying.
Will I get a confirmation?
Yes. When the booking is confirmed you receive the journey details, so you can check the date, time, addresses and price.
Can I book a return journey at the same time?
Yes. Add the return when you book, for example a drop-off at Gatwick and a collection when you fly home. Give the return flight number so that we can plan the pick-up.
Prices and payment
How is the fare worked out?
The fare depends on the distance, the vehicle you choose and the time of travel. The booking form shows the price before you confirm, and that price is fixed for the journey you booked.
Will the price go up if we get stuck in traffic?
No. A fixed fare stays the same whatever the traffic. The price can change only if the journey itself changes, for example an extra stop, a different destination or a long wait you ask the driver to make.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit and debit cards. Business and regular customers can ask the office about paying on account.
Are airport parking or drop-off charges included?
Some airports charge vehicles to drop off or wait. Ask when you book whether any charge applies to your terminal, so that there are no surprises on the day.
Airports and stations
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Give us your flight number when you book. If your plans change, call the office as soon as you can so that we can move the pick-up time and tell the driver.
What is meet and greet?
Meet and greet means the driver comes into the arrivals hall with a name board, helps with your bags and walks you to the car. Ask for it when you book an airport collection.
Where will the driver meet me at a railway station?
We agree a meeting point when you book, usually a set-down area or a named exit. The driver will call or text you when they arrive.
How early should I leave Kingston for my flight?
It depends on the airport and the time of day. Heathrow is usually the shortest trip, while Stansted and Luton need much longer. Allow for the drive plus the airline's check-in time, and add a buffer during rush hour.
Vehicles, luggage and passengers
Which car do I need for four people with suitcases?
Four people with one large case each will usually fit in a saloon, but it can be tight. If you have more than four large cases, choose a 6 seater MPV so that nobody travels with a bag on their lap.
Can I bring a pet?
Yes, on our pet friendly bookings. Tell us about your pet when you book so that we send a driver who is happy to carry animals. Small pets should travel in a carrier.
Can I bring a folding wheelchair or a pushchair?
Yes. Mention it when you book so that we can make sure there is room in the boot alongside any luggage.
Do you carry large groups?
Our largest vehicles take seven or eight passengers. For bigger groups we can send more than one car to arrive together.
Safety and licensing
How do I know the car is from Kingston Cars?
Before you get in, check that the driver knows your name and destination. Private hire cars in London display a TfL licence disc in the windscreen.
Can children travel without an adult?
Talk to the office before booking any journey for an unaccompanied child. Our school run service is set up for regular journeys agreed with parents in advance.
Who do I contact if something goes wrong?
Call 020 8546 7000 or email info@kingstoncars.org.uk with the date, time and route. The office team will look into it and come back to you.