Booking a minicab in London seems easy, but sometimes, the final bill surprises you. Extra costs appear out of nowhere. These are called hidden charges. Also they can make your journey more expensive than you expected. This guide will help you learn how to spot and stop hidden charges before you confirm your ride.
Surge, tolls or time rates are extra costs that are not displayed when scheduling a fare. When first glancing at the price, it seems to be quite reasonable. However, extra charges are incurred after the trip is done. Then it added to the original quoted fare. This may be in kind, such as waiting time, parking fees, toll charges or charges for a late-night trip. Few are aware of the existence of these sites until they are caught up in it.
Yes, you should always ask for the total price before you book. It is important to know what the fare includes. Whether you are booking online, calling, or with an app. Try asking whether the price can be final. Or whether there are more charges to be made. This information will be given by a good minicab company. That’s a red flag if they won’t. You may end up paying more than you had bargained.
Yes, many minicab services charge for waiting time. They give you a few free minutes, but after that, they charge by the minute. But if you drive the driver way too long. You can quickly find yourself in a situation where your fare has increased. When people tend to be too long at airports with customers or baggage. It happens often. To prevent waiting fees, check arrival time or ask if the driver tracks flight delays.
Not always. There are toll roads or congestion charge in some parts of London. These fees are built into the price of some minicab companies. Then others think of adding them later. If your trip might go through one of them. Check with the company to see if the charge already applies. That means you know exactly what you’ll be paying.
Yes, airport pickups often come with extra fees. Such examples may include parking fees, fees for pick-up zone, or waiting additional time. Some of these are included in some minicab firms' price. But some are tacked on afterward. Always ask if the fare includes airport charges to be safe. Also, provide the name of the company you’re flying and, if possible, give them your flight number. So they can check for any possible delay and thus save you from waiting for nothing.
It can. If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or in a large group, you may need a bigger car. Bigger vehicles usually cost more. Some companies also charge extra for large bags, heavy items, or special equipment. Like prams or sports gear. Always tell the company how many people and how much luggage you have. That way, they can give you the right car and the correct fare.
Yes, fares can be higher during late-night hours, early mornings, weekends, and public holidays. The examples could range from parking fees to pick up zone fees or waiting a few more minutes. Some of these are factored into some of the minicab firms’ price. But some are added on after. To be safe, always ask if the fare includes airport charges. Also, inform them of the company you were flying any time you are late enough to await.
A trusted company will be clear about all prices and won’t hide fees. Check for one with a good customer reviews and a clear booking system. Firms with such trusted reputation often have helpful websites. These websites have friendly staff willing to answer your questions. If a company fails to answer your questions or changes the price after the fact. Book with someone else.
Being prepared is most definitely the best way. Before booking, ask clear questions. Be sure of what you’re paying for. Use a reliable company. Share such details as flight numbers or luggage size. You’ve already planned ahead, you know what you owe. Also that’s what you pay: no surprise fees, no stress.