Hail a cab or book ahead? The answer affects your price, your wait time and your stress levels. This guide explains how fixed fare taxis work, how hailing differs, and why prebooking usually wins for trips that matter. You will also see what Victorian rules say about each option.
What Are Hailed (Unbooked) Taxi Trips?
A hailed trip is one you take from the street or from a taxi rank. Regulators call these unbooked trips. According to the Essential Services Commission, maximum fares apply to unbooked taxi trips in Melbourne, including Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. Because they are maximum fares, a provider may charge less. Safe Transport Victoria also says the meter must be used to calculate the fare for unbooked services. You can read the details on its fares and levies page.
What Are Fixed Fare Taxis?
Fixed fare taxis work differently. You book ahead, and the operator agrees a price before you travel. Booked fares are not regulated by the commission, so operators set their own. That makes it important to confirm the price upfront. When you prebook with us, we confirm your fare before you go, and our airport transfers use fixed upfront pricing.
Fixed Fare Taxis vs Hailing: Key Differences
| Feature | Prebooked fixed fare | Hailed from a rank or street |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Agreed before the trip | Metered, within maximum fares |
| Pickup time | You choose the time | You wait for a free taxi |
| Vehicle | Matched to your group and luggage | Whatever is available |
| Special needs | Can be arranged in advance | Hard to guarantee |
| Flight tracking | Included on our airport transfers | Not applicable |
Why Prebooking Beats Hailing
- Certainty. You know your pickup time and your price.
- Less waiting. A driver is assigned to you, so you are not hoping for a passing cab.
- The right vehicle. Wheelchair access, extra luggage space or a group van can be arranged.
- Better for early and late trips. Rank supply can be thin at odd hours, particularly outside the CBD.
- Easier planning. Airport runs, appointments and events run to a schedule, so a booked ride fits.
When Hailing Still Makes Sense
Hailing has its place. If plans change suddenly in a busy area with plenty of taxis, a rank can be fast. Metered fares also carry a regulated maximum. However, for trips with a deadline, a prebooked ride is safer.
How a Fixed Fare Booking Works
- Share your trip details. Give your pickup, drop-off, date and time.
- Tell us your needs. Mention passengers, luggage, accessibility or child seats.
- Get your fare. We confirm the price before you travel.
- Receive your booking confirmation. Keep it handy on the day.
- Meet your driver. Your driver arrives at the agreed time and place.
Keep Reading
Related guides include taxi vs rideshare, 10 questions to ask before booking a taxi, late night taxi safety tips and how early to book an airport taxi. See also our airport transfer service.
Common Myths About Prebooking
- Myth: prebooking is only for airports. In fact, it works for appointments, events, shopping and nights out.
- Myth: you cannot change plans. If your plans change, tell us as soon as you can and we will help.
- Myth: it needs a lot of effort. A booking takes a few minutes online or by phone.
Book Your Fixed Fare Taxi
Call 0432 190 000 or use our online booking form, and we will confirm your fare before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fixed fare taxi?
It is a booked taxi trip where the price is agreed before you travel, instead of being calculated by the meter as you go.
Are prebooked taxi fares regulated in Victoria?
Maximum fares are regulated only for unbooked trips, such as hailing from the street or a rank. Booked fares are set by the operator, so confirm the price when you book.
Does the meter run on an unbooked taxi trip?
Yes. Safe Transport Victoria says the fare calculating device must be used to calculate the fare for all unbooked services.
Is prebooking better for airport trips?
Usually, yes. A booked trip gives you a set pickup time, a vehicle suited to your luggage and flight tracking on airport transfers.
