THE IDEAL FARE: The next fare every taxi driver is hoping for
For taxi drivers, every shift is a blend of anticipation and adaptability, with the potential for a perfect fare lurking just around the corner.
The ideal job is more than just a simple transaction; it’s a nuanced dance of timing, distance, and direction that can significantly affect a driver’s day. But what exactly constitutes the perfect fare?
The Early Shift: Building Momentum
At the start of a shift, drivers are eager to get into the rhythm of the day. The ideal scenario here is a nearby, straightforward fare that sets the tone and delivers you into an area of demand with more potential fares. These types of jobs are few and far between, but pre-booked fares on apps like Gett and FREENOW can assist the cabbie. More often, the early part of a shift is spent navigating whatever comes their way, from school runs to short hops across town.
Momentum is the next key thing. A steady stream of jobs, even if they’re short, helps build up earnings without too much downtime. This early phase is all about positioning and setting up the day for success. Drivers who manage to stay within busy areas and keep their wheels turning are likely to see steady returns.
The Mid-Shift Dilemma: Short and Sweet or Long and Lucrative?
As the day progresses, the focus shifts. Midway through a shift, drivers are faced with an important decision: should they hope for the long haul or stick to shorter, quicker jobs?
A long-distance fare, known in the trade as a 'roader', can be highly tempting. It offers a substantial payout and can sometimes cover a significant portion of the day’s earnings in one go. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. A long trip might take the driver far from their usual stomping grounds, potentially leaving them stranded in an area with fewer return fares or forcing them to drive back empty, cutting into their profits.
On the other hand, some drivers prefer to stick to short, frequent trips. These jobs, though less lucrative per journey, can add up quickly. The base fare, or ‘flag fall’, is often the most profitable part of a trip, so maximising the number of short fares can actually yield a better hourly rate than one or two long hauls. This approach also keeps the driver in familiar territory, with a better chance of picking up more jobs quickly.
The choice between long and short fares often comes down to the driver’s personal preference and their understanding of the day’s patterns. Some may thrive on the steady churn of city-centre work, while others might relish the opportunity for a lengthy drive with a high payout.
The Endgame: Heading Home
As the shift draws to a close, the focus narrows to a singular goal: finding a fare that heads in the direction of home. By this point, many drivers are eyeing the clock, hoping for a job that not only pays well but also shortens their journey back at the end of the day.
In some cases, drivers might hold out for pre-booked jobs that align with their route home. These can be particularly valuable, allowing drivers to finish their shift on a high note, both financially and logistically. However, competition for these ‘plum’ jobs is fierce. Fellow drivers, especially those who live in the same area, are likely vying for the same fares, making it a challenging task to secure the perfect last job.
For those less fortunate, the end of the shift might involve a less-than-ideal fare in the wrong direction, or worse, an empty car ride all the way back home.
The dream fare is a constantly moving target, defined by a combination of timing, location, and personal preference. What constitutes the perfect job at the start of a shift might look entirely different by the end of the day.
For some, it’s the quick, easy wins that keep the money flowing steadily. For others, it’s the big score of a long trip that justifies the hours behind the wheel.
