10 Steps to Finding the Right Church Bus

Step 4: Have you considered all buses in that class?
Today's church bus market is filled with great products. Most shoppers have difficulty keeping up with all of the vehicles manufacturers introduce and the changes they are making to their older vehicles, so it's important to do your research. Research all your church bus choices before you hit the showrooms.

Step 5: Consider all the costs of ownership
Here is an often overlooked fact of bus ownership: one bus might be cheaper to buy, but more expensive to own. Why? Even if two church buses cost about the same to buy, one can depreciate at a different rate or cost significantly more to insure or maintain. Before you commit to one bus, you should estimate the long-term ownership costs of the church bus your group is considering. These costs include but are not limited to: depreciation, insurance, maintenance and fuel costs.

Step 6: Research your options
By completing steps one through five, you should now have a good idea about what bus will work for you. Maybe there are a few church buses that fit your criteria. It's time to narrow down your choices to avoid being overwhelmed. List steps to help narrow down search.

Step 7: Schedule an appointment for a test drive
It's a good idea to make your initial contact with a dealership by phone before going there in person. This can give you some sense of the business atmosphere you will be dealing with throughout the buying or leasing process. Schedule a full day when your group can go look at church buses or set up a time for the sales person to come to your location for a demonstration.