Why many taxi drivers prefer working higher tariffs at the weekend

For many taxi drivers, the weekend is the prime time to work. With mid-to-high tariffs and a bustling social scene throughout the day and evening, the opportunities to earn more during Saturday and Sunday are undeniable.

However, while weekend shifts offer significant earning potential, they also come with challenges, such as road closures, major events, and an increased demand for services that can create both opportunities and stress.

So, why do so many drivers choose to work the weekends, and what are the potential downsides?

Increased demand and higher tariffs

The most compelling reason for taxi drivers to work at the weekend is the increased demand for transport services and a fewer number of their colleagues working. Whether it's people heading out for a meal, drinks with friends, or a night of clubbing, weekend days and nights bring a surge of passengers looking for the taxi hire light.

On Fridays and Saturdays, many taxi firms implement mid-high tariffs that reflect the increased demand and unsocial hours the driver is being asked to work. These rates, higher than daytime or weekday fares, allow drivers to maximise their earnings without needing to work excessive hours. Passengers are generally prepared to pay more for the convenience of a quick, door-to-door service, especially when public transport options are limited or unreliable during these times.

The concentrated demand during weekend often translates into back-to-back fares for drivers. City centres and popular districts are hotspots for passengers, and the waiting times between fares are typically short. This high turnover of passengers means that drivers can usually earn more over the weekend, making it one of the most profitable times to work.

Social and leisure activities drive business

Weekends are also when people are most likely to be out enjoying social activities. From family gatherings and dinners out to nights at the theatre or attending live music events, the number of people needing a taxi remains high, whilst the number of taxis out working decreases.

For taxi drivers, this means that, rather than waiting at ranks or relying on bookings, passengers are often plentiful and ready to hail a cab at busy locations.

The balance of fewer hours, more money

One of the key appeals of working the weekend is the ability to earn more money in fewer hours. Many drivers find that by working the weekend, they can reach their financial targets for the week without needing to clock in long shifts on other days. This efficiency is particularly attractive for those who want to maximise their earnings while still having time for personal commitments during the week.

The downside: road closures and major events

While the weekend brings higher tariffs and passengers, it also brings challenges that can make the job more complicated. One of the biggest downsides to working during busy weekends is the frequent occurrence of road closures and diversions due to major events.

Sporting events, protests, parades, and festivals often result in parts of the city being shut off to vehicles, leading to delays and increased traffic on alternative routes. For taxi drivers, this can mean longer journeys and difficulty navigating through the city to pick up or drop off fares. Even if a fare begins smoothly, unexpected road closures can result in longer trips than planned, reducing overall efficiency.

In some cases, road closures can lead to bottlenecks around popular pick-up points, such as train stations or busy venues. While these locations promise a high volume of passengers, they also present challenges in terms of access.

While working the weekend shift presents significant opportunities for taxi drivers, the higher tariffs and high passenger demand also come with challenges. Drivers who choose to work these hours are often rewarded with more lucrative earnings, but they must navigate the downsides of road closures and working unsociable hours too.