Ground Transport

Ground transport covers all vehicle logistics for a touring party beyond the tour bus and production trucks — airport transfers, hotel-to-venue shuttles, local errands, runner vehicles, and any other on-the-ground transportation needs. During the advance, define who is providing ground transportation and whether it's a tour cost or a promoter cost — sometimes it's worked into the deal. At festivals, if the site is big enough, you may need ground transport between the dressing room compound and the stage.

Common ground transport needs

Airport pickups and drop-offs on fly dates, hotel-to-venue shuttles (especially when the hotel isn't walking distance), artist transport to press, promotional events, or off-site activities, runner vehicles for errands (laundry runs, supply pickups, pharmacy trips), and crew transport on days off or in cities where the bus isn't available.

Who arranges it

Ground transport is typically arranged by the tour manager during the advance or handled by the venue/promoter as part of the rider requirements. Larger tours may have a dedicated travel coordinator. The specifics — vehicle type, capacity, pickup times, driver contact info — end up on the day sheet.

International complications

Ground transport gets more complex on international tours, where vehicle standards, driver availability, and road regulations vary by country. Language barriers add another layer. Experienced tour managers build relationships with local transport providers in cities they visit frequently.