Passenger Bus Organizations

Accelerate your business growth by networking with bus associations
By Sandy Crouch Passenger bus organizations know that the problems plaguing the airline industry could mean an increase in traffic for bus operators. Travelers are becoming disenchanted with air travel due to the rising fares, cancellations and flight delays, and that leaves the door open for the motorcoach industry.

Every busing association in the country is sounding the call to the traveling public, "sit back and enjoy the ride with us." Motorcoach operators that align themselves with a regional or national bus organization will benefit from the marketing campaigns and strategic alliances cultivated by the passenger bus associations. Those industry connections, supplier relationships and marketing opportunities mean increased revenue for:

1. Passenger bus companies

2. Tour operators with passenger buses

3. Travel industry professionals

4. Suppliers of passenger bus products and services

Educate yourself as a member of a school bus organization

School bus associations in various states allow operators who contract with school districts to provide pupil transportation to join as regular members. Each school busing organization typically features an annual convention or networking opportunity to meet with industry vendors and other motorcoach operators. Membership also includes training and development workshops and legislative representation to deal with regulatory agencies on issues that affect your business.
Try:  The National School Transportation Association has been representing passenger bus companies involved in pupil transport for over 40 years. Members have access to their workers' compensation insurance program and fuel service card as well as management advice to help you make smarter business decisions. The National Association for Pupil Transportation is the largest membership organization for the school transportation industry. Members benefit from their public relations efforts as well as their training opportunities and annual trade show networking convention.

Expand your business opportunities with a regional busing association

A regional busing organization will provide your company with a wider sphere of influence. Regional passenger bus organizations usually represent motorcoach operators in a multi-state area. This allows passenger bus companies to network and create strategic alliances to grow their business and their revenue.
Try:  One American busing association with a regional reach is the Northwest Motorcoach Association. They serve the needs of passenger bus operators in the Pacific Northwest. Their online member directory allows travelers to find an operator that is bound by their code of ethics. The New England Bus Association also gives consumers access to their list of operator members. Their directory is a comprehensive listing of operator contact information and websites.

Extend your reach across the country with a national bus organization

National passenger bus organizations include a larger and more diverse member base to increase your networking opportunities. By virtue of their size, they also have stronger alliances with manufacturers and suppliers that could reduce your operating expenses. Your business will have access to a large number of tour operators who do not own their own equipment and travel industry professionals and their marketing organizations.
Try:  The American Bus Association works to connect motorcoach operators with the tour operators and travel organizations that want to be their business partners and help grow your business. Membership grants your company a listing in the industry's top directory, the ABA Motorcoach Marketer. The United Motorcoach Association membership also includes a listing in their annual print directory and buyer's guide as well as their online directory. They offer an expansive list of member discounts and money-saving resources to help your bottom line.

• The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is an excellent resource for motorcoach operators. Their website details all the regulations governing your business and provides a listing of all the forms you need to comply with agency regulations.