Apps like Uber have revolutionised transportation for many cities. However, if you’re in Aberdeen, local taxis offer a far superior experience compared to ridesharing platforms like Uber. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, choosing a local taxi service like Aberdeen Taxis or using the SafeKab app can elevate your journey in several ways. Here, we’ll explore five reasons to opt for local taxis instead of Uber, highlighting the benefits of local expertise, reliability, community support, and more.
1. Unmatched Local Knowledge and Expertise
Navigational Mastery
Local taxi drivers have a deep-rooted understanding of Aberdeen, its streets, traffic patterns, and the quickest routes. This knowledge stems from years of experience navigating through Aberdeenshire. When you step into a local taxi, you’re entrusting your journey to someone who knows how to avoid traffic, identify shortcuts, and get you to your destination faster and more efficiently.
On the contrary, Uber drivers are often unfamiliar with the intricacies of Aberdeen’s roads. Many come from other areas and rely heavily on GPS, which may not account for real-time conditions like roadworks or traffic jams, potentially leading to delays and unnecessary detours.
Personalised Service With Local Insights
Local taxi drivers aren’t just transportation providers; they’re part of the community. This means they often go above and beyond to offer a more personalised and welcoming service. Need a restaurant recommendation? Looking for the best time to visit a tourist attraction? A local taxi driver can provide you with tailored suggestions that go beyond what you’ll find on Google Maps.
2. Reliability and Consistent Availability
Always Ready When You Are
One of the greatest advantages of local taxi services like Aberdeen Taxis and SafeKab is their consistent availability. Whether it’s the rush hour, a holiday, or an early morning flight, local taxis are dependable and can be pre-booked easily. The SafeKab app even allows you to book a taxi in advance or find one immediately, ensuring you never have to wait long for a ride.
With Uber, availability is more unpredictable. During peak times, or when fewer drivers are on the road, you might find yourself waiting much longer than anticipated. Moreover, Uber’s algorithm-driven availability often fluctuates, meaning you can’t always rely on an immediate ride.
24/7 Service You Can Trust
Aberdeen Taxis and SafeKab operate 24/7, ensuring that you have access to safe and reliable transportation whenever you need it—be it during late-night commitments or early morning departures. During the pandemic, when Uber drivers were fewer and public transport came to a standstill, local taxi services kept going, offering a lifeline to the community.
3. Supporting Your Local Economy
Invest in Your Community
Choosing a local taxi over Uber isn’t just about getting from one place to another; it’s about supporting your community. Local taxi companies invest back into the region, helping sustain local businesses and drivers. Unlike Uber, where a significant portion of the fare is lost to corporate commission rates, local taxis contribute directly to the economy of Aberdeen and the surrounding area.
With local taxis, you’re not funding a multinational corporation; you’re supporting hardworking drivers, many of whom are your neighbors. Services like SafeKab ensure that more of the fare stays within the community, fostering local economic growth.
4. Transparent and Fair Pricing
No Surprises With Local Taxis
When it comes to fare transparency, local taxis offer a clear advantage. The rates for Aberdeen taxis are regulated by the Council, meaning you’ll never pay more than the fixed limit. Moreover, services like SafeKab can even offer discounts on these council-regulated fares, providing even more value for your money.
With Uber, surge pricing can lead to unexpectedly high fares, especially during peak times or adverse weather conditions. This lack of pricing consistency can cause confusion and frustration. In contrast, local taxis give you peace of mind, knowing that your fare is fixed from the outset.
Special Discounts and Fixed Fares
With the SafeKab app, not only do you benefit from transparent pricing, but drivers can also offer you discounts on the official rates. Additionally, when you book your taxi, you’ll receive a fixed fare for your journey, meaning no last-minute surprises. This level of clarity ensures that you can plan your trip confidently, without worrying about fluctuating costs.
5. Enhanced Safety and Accountability
Built-In Safety Features of SafeKab
Local taxi services prioritise the safety and well-being of both passengers and drivers. With the SafeKab app, you can select your driver, vehicle, and fare in advance, ensuring full control over your ride. The app’s built-in Safety Code feature guarantees that you’re in the correct vehicle with the right driver, providing peace of mind throughout your journey.
Advanced Journey Monitoring and Panic Button
Additionally, SafeKab includes Journey Monitoring, allowing you to track your route in real-time and share it with loved ones. For added security, the app features a Panic Button, enabling you to notify both the cab office and a chosen emergency contact should you feel unsafe during your ride. These comprehensive safety measures are designed to ensure that every journey is secure and comfortable.
SafeKab Credit: Convenient and Cashless
Another key advantage is SafeKab Credit, a feature that allows you to deposit funds into your in-app wallet, ensuring you always have the means to get home safely, even if you don’t have cash or a card on hand. This cashless option adds an extra layer of convenience to your taxi experience.
Taxi Travel with Aberdeen Taxis
At Aberdeen Taxis, we’re here to help you get to any location in Aberdeen and the surrounding area safely and on time, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy experiencing all Aberdeen has to offer.
Don’t worry about finding expensive parking or forgoing some drinks so you can drive to a destination. Book an Aberdeen taxi and let us deal with the stress of getting you back and forward and maybe even give you some top tips of where to visit!
Prebook your Aberdeen Taxi through our convenient platforms:
Call Aberdeen Taxis on 01224 200200
Drop into the Aberdeen Taxis office at 5 Crown Street Aberdeen AB116HU
Download the SafeKab app for fixed-fare taxis at the touch of a button
Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more updates on events and promotions.
FAQ Section
Q1: Are local taxis always cheaper than Uber?
Local taxi fares are regulated, providing transparency and competitive rates, especially for short trips. With SafeKab, you also benefit from discounts on these fares. Uber, on the other hand, can become more expensive during surge pricing times.
Q2: How do I book a local taxi in Aberdeen?
Booking a taxi is simple! You can call Aberdeen Taxis directly, use the SafeKab app for instant bookings, or drop by their city center office.
Q3: Is Uber available in Aberdeen ?
Currently, Uber does not operate in Aberdeen yet, but a license has been granted in 2024. Local taxi services remain the best and most reliable option.