How to Book a UK Airport Transfer: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Travel tips · By British Express Cars Travel Desk · Published 27 October 2026 · 2 min read

Quick answer

To book an airport transfer safely in the UK, use a licensed operator, confirm the price is fixed per vehicle, check that meet and greet, flight tracking and waiting time are included, give your flight number, request child seats in advance, and keep your confirmation and driver details to hand. British Express Cars includes all of these.

What should I check before booking an airport transfer?

1. Licensing. In London, private hire vehicles and operators must be licensed by TfL. Book in advance and avoid touts in terminals (TfL guidance).
2. Fixed price per vehicle. The quote should state one price, not a meter. Ask what is included.
3. Meet and greet. Your driver should wait in arrivals with a name board, not leave you to find a rank.
4. Flight tracking. Give your flight number so the pickup moves if you land early or late.
5. Waiting time. Airport pickups with British Express Cars include 60 minutes free from landing.
6. The right vehicle. Count passengers and large cases, then choose a saloon, executive car, MPV or minibus.
7. Child seats. Request them when booking. See our baby seats page and the GOV.UK rules.

How far ahead should I book?

Book as soon as your flights are confirmed. Fixed prices do not rise with demand, but popular times such as summer weekends and bank holidays are busier. You can get an instant price from the quote form on our quote page.

What details does the driver need?

• Flight number and terminal (for arrivals).
• Pickup and drop-off addresses, including postcodes.
• Number of passengers and large bags.
• A mobile number you will have switched on after landing.

Which airports and routes do we cover?

We cover Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and London City, plus cruise ports such as Southampton. See our FAQs for more.

Which related guides should I read next?

• What happens to your transfer if your flight is delayed or cancelled
• Landing in the UK from the US: ETA, border control and your pickup
• ULEZ and the congestion charge on airport transfers
• Child car seats on UK airport transfers
• Luton Airport to central London

Need a car? Get a fixed price in under two minutes.