Know the terminal and pickup plan before landing.

Confirm the airport before comparing the ride.

Many destinations have multiple airports, and similar city names can lead to an expensive pickup mistake. Use the three-letter airport code from the flight confirmation, not a general city label. Then verify the flight number, scheduled arrival, terminal and hotel or port address before requesting a quote.

Private transfers can be useful for late arrivals, families, groups, large luggage loads or destinations with complicated public transportation. Shared shuttles and trains may cost less but can involve waiting, fixed stops or limited operating hours. Compare the complete door-to-door time and cost rather than the headline fare alone.

Transfer information to verify

• Airport code, terminal and flight number
• Exact hotel, port or residence address
• Passenger, child-seat and luggage capacity
• Meet-and-greet location and driver contact
• Waiting time and delayed-flight monitoring
• Tolls, parking, tips and cancellation terms