Many often wonder what the difference is between a taxi and a chauffeur service and what the best option is when it comes to travelling to business meetings, the airport, days out or weddings.
While both taxis and chauffeurs provide transportation services, there are significant differences between the two. In this article, we will compare taxis and chauffeurs to outline the differences, with a focus on the benefits of hiring a chauffeur and the extra perks that often come with this type of service compared with a standard taxi service.
The Main Differences Between Taxis & Chauffeurs
First, let’s discuss the basic differences between taxis and chauffeurs.
Taxis are typically hailed on the street or in more recent years, ordered through an app such as Uber, while chauffeurs are hired in advance for a specific time and purpose and cannot be waved down on the street.
Taxis generally charge by the mile and/or minute, with additional fees for waiting time, while chauffeurs are typically hired for a set period of time or for a specific journey, such as a few hours or a full day.
If there is traffic and you’re delayed during a chauffeur-driven journey, you will typically not be charged any extra money, even if your driver had to take a detour that involved driving more miles and using more petrol. Whilst it is possible to take a taxi for a flat rate, typically the price of a taxi journey is dependent on how long it takes and how many miles are travelled.
Chauffeurs often work for a private company and their vehicles are typically high-end luxury cars that offer a more luxurious and comfortable ride than a typical taxi.
The benefits of using a chauffeur service vs a taxi
Whilst no one can deny taxis are extremely useful and can be a great way to get from A to B when time is limited, parking is difficult or you simply don’t have access to a car, a chauffeur service brings many additional benefits. Some of these include:
#1 A more personalised service
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a chauffeur is the personalised service that comes with it. Unlike a taxi, where the driver may be focused solely on getting you from point A to point B as quickly as possible, a chauffeur is dedicated to providing a comfortable and luxurious experience. Many chauffeur companies try and allocate the same driver when possible, so you may even get to know your driver too.
#2 Complimentary Drinks & Refreshments
Unlike most taxi services, a chauffeur will typically provide a car that is well stocked with complimentary drinks and snacks onboard, so you’ll feel refreshed and invigorated on your journey and won’t be rushing to the nearest shop or vending machine as soon as your arrive at your destination.
#3 Happy to make additional stops
Chauffeurs are also often able to be available to make additional stops or detours as and when needed, and this will be factored into the price before your journey. On the other hand, picking up additional passengers or incurring waiting time when using a taxi will typically add an extra cost, which is usually decided by a meter so you won’t know how much your journey will cost until you arrive at your destination.
#4 Exceptional Customer Service
Chauffeurs are often trained to provide the very best customer service, with a focus on anticipating and meeting their clients’ needs. Whilst most taxi drivers also provide great customer service, it isn’t part of their job like it is a chauffeur, and a taxi service is typically less personal as it is rare you have the same taxi driver twice, unless you live somewhere very rural with just a few drivers.
#5 Comfortable Cars With Extra Space
Another perk of hiring a chauffeur is the quality of the vehicle. Whilst taxis are often standard cars that are functional but not particularly luxurious, chauffeurs typically drive high-end luxury cars that are designed for comfort and style. Many chauffeur-driven cars have extra legroom, such as the Mercedes S Class Long Wheel Base, as well as more comfortable seats and even in-car entertainment such as iPads and screens.
Extra comfort can make a big difference to your journey and how you feel when you arrive at your destination.
#6 Clean and Well-Maintained Vehicles
Chauffeur cars are often kept in great condition and regularly valeted, with many drivers opting to do this between each customer. Not only will the car often be safe but it will often be cleaner too, so you won’t have to worry about a less-than-ideal journey in a car full of the previous passengers crumbs or even worse, spiders! Yes, one of our clients once got a taxi that was full of baby spiders and had to make a quick escape!
#7 Increased Flexibility
As above, chauffeurs are happier to make additional stops as well as accommodate last-minute changes to plans. A chauffeur can be hired not just for a particular journey, but also for the whole day, for a flat rate. This is particularly helpful for business trips where multiple stops may be needed throughout the day. This level of flexibility is generally not possible with a taxi, where the cost will be unpredictable and based on whatever is on the meter.
#8 More Reliable & Professional
One of the main advantages of hiring a chauffeur over a taxi is the level of reliability and professionalism that is usually guaranteed with a chauffeur company.
Not only are chauffeurs used to working with professionals, CEOs, celebrities and high net worth individuals and the level of service required, but the service is typically much more reliable.
We’ve all been waiting for our late taxi, only to find out after several calls that it isn’t actually coming or they’ve picked someone else up, but with a chauffeur, this generally doesn’t happen. Whilst a taxi driver will get allocated jobs as they come in, chauffeur journeys are usually planned in advance, allowing the driver to ensure they leave adequate time to arrive on schedule, even if there is additional traffic. Chauffeurs will also monitor flights and traffic before and after your arrival and departure, so you’ll never be late to the airport or waiting for your driver on your return Additionally, because chauffeurs are booked privately and can not be flagged down on the street, there is no chance that someone will jump in and take your ride.
#9 No Extra Charges If You’re Delayed
When travelling by taxi, delays can be rather costly and can put many off using such a service. Chauffeurs often offer free waiting time if your flight or engagement is delayed, so you won’t find the meter has run up hundreds of pounds or your driver has gone when you arrive. You can rest assured your driver will be ready to take you home with no extra charges and because they will be monitoring your flight, if it’s delayed significantly, they will just arrive a bit later, so they won’t be waiting hours for you either.
#10 Arrive in Style
Finally, it’s worth noting that hiring a chauffeur can also provide a level of prestige and status that is not possible with a taxi. Whether it’s for a business trip, airport transfer, a special occasion, or just an evening out with friends, arriving in a luxury car with a personal chauffeur can make a statement and set a tone of luxury and exclusivity. This can be particularly useful for business travellers or high-profile individuals.
Looking for a Chauffer Service in Brighton or Sussex?
Are you looking for a chauffeur service or perhaps you’re thinking about giving it a go for the first time? We’re a luxury chauffeur company based in Brighton and serving clients throughout the city and local areas in East and West Sussex, from Burgess Hill to Shoreham and Hove. We offer all types of chauffeur services from executive car hire to airport transfers and wedding cars. Our selection of top-of-the-range luxury cars includes the Mercedes S Class, the BMW 7 Series and a brand-new Range Rover. We have recently upgraded to hybrid vehicles and have a reputation as one of the most luxurious chauffeur services in Sussex. Book your trip online or speak to our team today to get a quote!