Charter Bus Rentals in Merced, California

A charter bus is a large, privately rented motor vehicle designed to transport groups of people together to a specific destination or on a custom itinerary. Unlike public transit or scheduled intercity coaches, charter buses operate on-demand for schools, businesses, sports teams, event attendees, or tour groups. They typically seat 36 to 56 passengers, offer comfortable forward-facing seats, and include amenities like climate control, restrooms, and luggage storage. Smaller minibuses (15–35 seats) are also available for compact groups.

Charter Bus Company Merced offers a full range of modern buses in Merced, including 15- to 35-passenger minibuses, 36- to 56-passenger full-size motorcoaches, and several specialty vehicles. Our fleet includes popular models like the Van Hool CX45, Prevost H3-45, MCI J4500, Setra S417, and Temsa TS35E, as well as Grech Motors and Turtle Top minibus bodies on Ford or Chevy chassis. We can provide multiple coaches for large groups or split groups across different vehicle sizes.

Most charter buses include reclining seats, individual reading lights, strong air conditioning, overhead parcel racks, underfloor luggage bays, and a restroom. Many also offer free Wi-Fi, 110V/USB power outlets at each seat, and up to five flat-screen monitors with DVD or HDMI input. Newer models may feature leatherette upholstery, LED interior lighting, PA systems, and Bluetooth audio. Advanced options include seatback tray tables, card tables, and video screens for presentations or movies.

Yes, all full-size charter buses have generous luggage space both inside and outside the cabin. Each passenger can typically bring one full-size suitcase (up to 50 lbs) for the undercarriage baggage bays and one carry-on item for the overhead parcel rack above their seat. Minibuses have smaller rear cargo areas but can still handle several roller bags or equipment cases. Larger items like coolers, band instruments, or athletic gear can be accommodated by coordinating with the reservation team in advance.

Yes, Charter Bus Company Merced can provide ADA-accessible buses with wheelchair lifts, wider aisles, priority seating, and accessible restrooms. Please request an ADA-equipped vehicle when booking so we can assign a coach with the appropriate features. Our team is experienced in serving special-needs groups, including school and medical transportation.

Charter Bus Company Merced handles all types of group transportation in Merced and the Central Valley, including school field trips, college shuttles (UC Merced), corporate events, employee shuttles, wedding guest transportation, sports team travel, airport transfers (MCE, FAT, SFO), casino runs, winery and brewery tours, church outings, festival shuttles, and multi-day sightseeing tours. We serve groups of any size, from small family gatherings to large-scale event movements, with custom pickup and drop-off locations.

Yes, we regularly operate long-distance charters from Merced to destinations across California and beyond. Popular routes include Merced to Sacramento, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Fresno, Los Angeles, San Diego, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and coastal cities. We can also handle multi-day trips out of state to Nevada, Oregon, or Arizona. Our coaches are built for highway travel with comfortable seating, onboard restrooms, and entertainment systems to make longer journeys pleasant and efficient.

Charter bus rental rates in Merced typically range from $170 to $400+ per hour on weekdays, $190 to $500+ per hour on weekends, $1,800 to $3,800+ per day, and $6.00 to $9.95 per mile for full-size motorcoaches. Minibuses are less expensive, while specialty coaches may cost more. Peak-season rates apply during spring and fall. Contact us for an exact quote based on your itinerary.

Pricing is based on the size and type of vehicle, trip distance, number of days, itinerary complexity, and time of year. Additional costs may include tolls (e.g., Bay Area bridges), parking (stadiums, hotels), driver lodging for overnight trips, and fuel surcharges. Peak demand during school breaks, holidays, or major events (e.g., UC Merced graduation, fairgrounds events) can increase rates. Multi-day and one-way trips are priced differently than local round trips.

Charter Bus Company Merced is a reputable company with over 20 years of experience providing group transportation in Merced and across California. We offer one of the largest and most modern fleets in the region, with vehicles from top manufacturers like Van Hool, Prevost, and MCI. Our company is known for its professionalism, reliability, and excellent customer service, with dispatchers available 24/7 to support your trip. We have experience handling groups of all sizes for events ranging from school field trips to corporate conventions. Many local schools, businesses, and organizations trust us for their transportation needs because we consistently deliver quality service at a fair price.

It’s best to book your charter bus as early as possible—ideally 3 to 6 months in advance—to ensure availability and get the best rate. Spring and fall are peak seasons due to school trips, sports, and weddings, so buses can sell out quickly. For large events or special requests (e.g., ADA coaches), 6 to 12 months is recommended. Last-minute bookings are possible but may be limited in vehicle selection and subject to higher rates.

Yes, a deposit is required to secure your reservation. The deposit amount is typically 30% of the total charter price and is due at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid in full at least 14 days before the departure date. We accept major credit cards, ACH transfers, and business checks. For bookings made less than 14 days in advance, full payment is required upfront. Payment terms will be clearly outlined in your contract.

Your quote includes the bus rental, driver’s wages, fuel, insurance, and onboard amenities. Not included are tolls, parking fees, driver’s lodging (if required), and optional gratuity. For example, parking at venues like UC Merced or fairgrounds may incur additional charges. Bridge tolls to the Bay Area are extra. Any additional expenses will be itemized in your contract.

You can get a quote by calling our office at 661-732-2860 or by filling out the online quote request form on our website. Provide details such as your departure date and time, pickup and drop-off locations, group size, and type of trip. Our team will review your information and send you a personalized quote within a few hours. If you have a complex itinerary or special requests, please include those details so we can provide an accurate estimate.

Yes, you can request a specific bus model, color, or exterior branding. Our fleet includes coaches in white, black, silver, blue, red, and custom colors. We can provide matching vehicles for large groups or assign a particular model (e.g., Prevost H3-45) if desired. Custom wraps or magnetic signs with your logo are available for an additional fee. Please specify your preference when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your request based on fleet availability.