Taxi Service Flat Rate vs. Meter Rate

by | Mar 19, 2014 | Transportation and Logistics

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There are two methods of paying for an Arlington, MA taxi service. A flat fee is when the cab company charges you one set rate for your travels. A meter fee is when you are charged per mile or per minute to use the taxi service. Flat rates are becoming more popular, with more companies implementing some form of flat fee service. However, meter fares are still the most common way to pay for a taxi and depending on the distance you’re traveling can be cheaper than a flat rate. When reserving a cab service, it’s important to understand your options so that you can budget in transportation and not pay too much for a taxi service.

When It’s Best to Use Flat Rate

Some cab companies offer you a choice of flat rate or metered fares. Flat rates are ideal if you’ll be traveling a far distance or in an area where traffic is heavy and metered minutes could tick by endlessly. If you need an Arlington, MA taxi service to or from a major airport then you’re probably going to pay a flat fee. Many taxi companies frequently transport clients to and from the major airports and have started implementing flat rate fees to make it easier for travelers. This way if you get stuck sitting in traffic or in long lines at the airport, the meter doesn’t keep rising. It’s also best to use flat rate if you know that you need to travel to your destination during heavy traffic times, such as the work rush or on a weekend night. When you call to reserve your cab, always check with the dispatcher on the types of rates available for travel.

When It’s Best to Use a Metered Rate

Most people are familiar with the meter rates because until recently it was the only way taxi drivers charged for fares. Meter rates can still be the cheaper way to travel, although studies show many passengers opt for flat rate if it’s available. Metered is a good choice if you’re going a short distance, like a ride to a doctor’s appointment or to the store. Metered is also good if you know that it doesn’t take long to get to your destination and you don’t have worries about getting stuck in traffic. When reserving your Arlington, MA taxi, make sure you find out beforehand the metered rate for travel.

To find out more about Arlington, MA taxi services,