Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Armir Harris. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Armir, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a time you helped a customer really get an amazing result through their work with you.
Booking group transportation is traditionally a cumbersome and fragmented process that requires numerous calls, quotes and emails. I founded CharterUP because I knew there had to be a better, more transparent way to help consumers secure charter services.
CharterUP is the first fully integrated platform for bus charters in the U.S, aimed at making group transportation a breeze for all parties involved. We connect bookers to a virtual fleet of local bus operators and provide real-time availability, vehicle tracking, performance reviews and on-demand booking. We’re able to connect customers with available charters in under 60 seconds. Today, CharterUP is the top charter service provider for Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. We’re dedicated to not just helping large corporations or consumers with their transportation needs, but really doing everything we can to help our fleet of independent bus operators thrive. We’re leveling the playing field for these smaller operators, providing them with the technology, data, visibility and financing needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive market.
One of our standout success stories involves our partner Mark Thronson, the owner of Elite Transportation of Texas. When Mark’s shuttle bus business caught our attention in San Antonio, we saw an opportunity for a collaboration that could yield significant benefits. Following our initial meeting, we embarked on a journey that would redefine the trajectory of Elite Transportation’s operations.
Mark’s business, which was primarily centered in San Antonio, experienced a game-changing evolution through our collaboration. With over 10 shuttles now operating in the Austin area, Elite Transportation witnessed an impressive growth of nearly 40%. The significance of this growth becomes even more pronounced considering our partnership enabled Mark’s business to earn the trust of one of the world’s largest technology companies. Today, Elite Transportation shuttles employees to a manufacturing plant daily, showcasing the far-reaching impact of our collaboration.
CharterUP’s technology played a pivotal role in this success story. The integration of our real-time tracking system not only ensured transparency and safety but also facilitated seamless communication between Elite Transportation and CharterUP. This technological synergy optimized operational efficiency, contributing to the safety and satisfaction of passengers.
One of the most meaningful outcomes was the substantial reduction in advertising expenses for Elite Transportation. By leveraging our platform, Mark cut advertising costs by up to 20%, allowing him to reinvest in business growth. The platform’s ability to connect users with reliable transportation providers efficiently resulted in a remarkable business growth of over 20% in the past year alone. CharterUP has consistently provided Mark’s business with three to five ride requests daily, covering both the San Antonio and Austin areas. This not only showcased the effectiveness of our platform but also the widespread impact of connecting users with reliable transportation solutions.
The relationship between CharterUP and Elite Transportation is not just transactional; it’s a true partnership built on transparency, mutual growth, and shared success. Our commitment to quality service, demonstrated by our dedicated team members, sets CharterUP apart as a catalyst for success in the transportation industry.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My journey in the transportation industry began in my teenage years, working in my relative’s business in Charlotte. Handling various aspects of the business, from taxes to online marketing, I developed a deep passion for the industry. A pivotal moment came during the Democratic National Convention, where I observed a critical need for a more efficient charter bus system, leading to the birth of CharterUP.
CharterUP stands as more than just a platform; it’s a commitment to transparency and efficiency in an industry in dire need of innovation. Functioning like ‘Expedia for charter buses’, our platform offers real-time availability, safety records, ratings, and vehicle tracking. Our diverse clientele is a testament to our versatility and reliability. We’re the trusted transportation provider not only for Fortune 500 companies but also for professional sports leagues, emergency and urgent response needs of FEMA and critical military projects. This wide-ranging service demonstrates our ability to meet various high-stakes, specialized transportation needs.
In addition to serving large corporations and crucial government sectors, we focus on empowering our independent bus operators. By leveling the playing field, we provide smaller operators with technology, data, visibility and financing, which are essential for their success. In doing so, CharterUP uplifts the entire charter services industry through data, technology, and transparency.
Our growth and impact are evident in our recognition as one of the fastest-growing private companies, with significant revenue growth and a soaring demand for our Corporate Shuttle Program. The recent expansion into luxury sprinter vans in key markets further enhances our presence and service offerings, ensuring we remain at the forefront of transportation innovation.
At CharterUP, our mission extends beyond transportation—it’s about driving positive change and progress. We’re committed to propelling individuals and communities toward a future where transportation is not just a journey, but a hallmark of efficiency, transparency and sustainability. Whether you’re seeking a transformative travel experience, support for large-event transportation or efficient transportation for government and military projects, CharterUP is your ally in shaping a future where transportation is seamless, reliable and forward-thinking.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
At CharterUP, our growth is anchored in a blend of innovative technology, market transparency and forging robust partnerships with over 600 esteemed operating partners nationwide. This trinity is our growth engine, propelling us rapidly forward.
Central to our strategy is a laser-focus on customer experience. We don’t just provide a service; we create an experience that resonates with every user. Our approach is deeply rooted in listening – genuinely understanding the unique challenges our customers face. This active engagement is key, as it enables us to precisely tailor our offerings. We’re not just responding to needs; we’re anticipating them, staying agile and adaptive in an ever-evolving market.
Our customer-centric philosophy goes beyond mere satisfaction. It’s about identifying and bridging market gaps, ensuring that our services are not just available but are the perfect fit for the current market dynamics. This strategy isn’t just about growing our clientele; it’s about redefining the charter bus experience, making it more accessible, accountable and transparent. It’s how we stay ahead and ensure that our customers, and in turn, CharterUP, continue to thrive in a competitive landscape.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
CharterUP’s reputation is built on our commitment to transform the charter bus experience with accountability, transparency and technology that ensures ease and efficiency.
For Customers:
Our platform revolutionizes charter service engagement, offering quick access to charters, detailed operator reviews, vehicle tracking, fast booking and more. We’ve streamlined the once fragmented booking process into a simple, online marketplace, providing transparent reviews and vehicle details. This ensures a seamless, high-standard travel experience for our customers from start to finish.
For Operator Partners:
Our success is tied to our operator partners’ prosperity. We support them with tools, data and support, helping to grow their business. Our platform connects operators to new customers, ensuring transparency and trust, and moving away from the old broker model to a relationship that values operator autonomy and respect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.
charterup.com/charter-bus- rentals/ - Instagram: https://www.
instagram.com/charterup/?hl=en - Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/charterup/ - Linkedin: https://www.
linkedin.com/in/armir-harris/ - Twitter: https://twitter.com/
charter_up - Youtube: https://www.youtube.
com/@charterup - Other: https://www.charterup.
com/shuttles/