Sydney’s public transport system is operated by Transport for NSW. All taxi fares may vary based on individual companies, but some components remain the same.
Let us look at what goes into your fare when you travel in a taxi in Sydney.
The Components of Taxi Fare
Taxi fares in Sydney are displayed on a metre in the taxi. The metre will start counting when the taxi starts moving and stop counting when you arrive at your destination. When you leave the taxi, you will be charged the total amount displayed on the metre. Some key components of fare include the following:
· A Distance rate is calculated based on a table of rates that the NSW government sets. Depending on the peak hours, it can vary from $2.29/km to $2.73/km.
· A fixed Flag fall rate of $4.20 is charged for starting the taxi ride.
· The taxi company charges a booking fee to all passengers. Depending on the taxi company, it can range from $2.00 to $3.00.
· Waiting time is one of the corporate transfers’ most significant taxi fare charges. The best corporate travel transfer services in Sydney can charge up to $56 per hour. Some corporate taxi companies even provide waiting for free if passengers have a fixed contract with the taxi company.
· A peak time surcharge is applied between weekdays from 6:30 am to 10:00 am and 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The rates can vary based on the taxi company. These charges are often waived for corporate transfers.
· There is a special airport fee for taxis used at Sydney Airport. The fee is $5.45, payable by all passengers taking a taxi from any of Sydney Airport’s taxi ranks. The airport fee is used to help cover the cost of providing taxi services at the airport. It also helps to support the airport’s infrastructure and security measures. However, the airport fee is not included in the taxi fare, so it will be added to your bill when you arrive at your destination. You can pay the fee in cash or by credit card.
· A baby seat fee of approximately $5.00 is charged upon request by the passenger. Many taxi companies like the Aussie Baby Taxi provide taxi with child seat, without any extra charge.
· A wheelchair fee of approximately $6.00 is charged upon request by the passenger.
· Some taxi companies might charge an extra passenger fee ranging from $3.00 to $5.00, depending on the type of vehicle.
· Other charges for amenities and value additions might vary.
Generally, an average two-kilometre taxi ride might cost a passenger $12 per ride.
Money Saving Tips
Although taxis in Sydney are cost-effective, it is always pleasant to follow some tips that can help save money on taxi rides. Here are some.
· Travel off-peak to save extra charges.
· Share a taxi with friends and family to save money.
· Booking a taxi in advance can get you better rates.
Conclusion
Taxi fares in Sydney comprise several components, including flag fall, distance rate, waiting time, peak time surcharge, and airport fee. In addition to these components, taxi fares in Sydney may include other charges, such as baby seat fees, wheelchair-accessible taxi fees, and additional passenger fees. However, passengers can follow tips such as traveling off-peak, sharing a taxi, and booking a taxi in advance to save on the fares.
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