Differences between a Chauffeur Service and a Taxi
What is a Chauffeur?
Most people associate a chauffeur with a luxury/executive car, and in some countries, it's considered a status symbol to have a man dressed in a suit driving you around. The question is, what is the difference between a taxi and a chauffeur service? Why would you want a chauffeur for your special event instead of hopping into an ordinary taxi? A chauffeur in meaning has evolved dramatically over the years and nowadays describes a professional driver who operates a luxury vehicle.
Vive la Difference!
Whilst it may seem that both options offer the same at slightly different prices, there is in fact a significant difference between the two. Taxi cars can be old vehicles, the only current requirement within our Local Authority is to comply with the EURO 5 emission limit. Popular taxi models in our area are Skoda and Peugeot. Some drivers keep their vehicles in pleasant condition, but the point is, you never know what car will turn up and in what state it will be. In short, there is a big gamble when you book a taxi. At peak times of the day your taxi journey is likely to be delayed due to the booking systems most operators use, which allocates the nearest taxi at a certain point and time. Journeys are not scheduled in advance to guarantee your pick-up time. A Chauffeur service, on the other hand, will take your booking in advance and you’ll be able to specify your exact pick-up time and vehicle type. You’ll be pre-allocated a specific vehicle and dedicated driver, then you’ll be sent a confirmation accordingly. A Chauffeur Service booked with us will guarantee you a luxurious, executive vehicle. Our current fleet includes Range Rover, Porsche and various Mercedes Benz models of saloon cars and 7 seaters, so whatever you choose you will be guaranteed a luxury experience. We will ensure you arrive in style and will make the best first impression. All our vehicles are equipped with the latest features and amenities, including wi-fi connectivity that allows you to stay connected while on the go and security features that ensure a safe ride for passengers. Whether you’re taking a trip with the family, going on a romantic dinner date or travelling for business, our chauffeur service has just the right vehicle to help you travel in comfort, safety and style. You’ll never be asked to wait for a car to become available. Our service, once confirmed, is dedicated to you alone.
Chauffeur service offers a unique experience even before the journey
What makes an exceptional customer experience? Is it the chauffeur in a suit or the luxury vehicle? No, it is the sum of all things that make up the unique combination of circumstances working together. Great customer service starts well before the chauffeur starts the drive. Parkers’ dedicated Customer Service Team is your first point of contact and, as such, they’re happy to talk to you about any aspect of our luxury and VIP Chauffeur travel services. You can contact us by phone, email or via our advanced online booking system.
On the day of your journey with us, we use our tracking systems to monitor all your travel connections and schedules. If there are any changes or cancellations, we’ll make the relevant adjustments and remain available to you regardless. Your VIP Chauffeur will be in exactly the right place at exactly the right time… We don’t just meet your expectations, we surpass them! All these aspects make a great chauffeur service. We believe the best customer service is one that’s customised for each client. You deserve a chauffeur service you can rely on. We provide a high level of attention to your unique needs, right from the minute you reach out to us.
What about drivers themselves?
London taxi drivers are very knowledgeable. Every driver needs to pass "The Knowledge" test, which is the toughest taxi exam in the world. Respect for them. But what about taxi drivers in our local cities? It is easier to become a taxi driver locally, however it is still necessary to pass a locality test and other requirements. The principles are simple, these drivers will take you from point A to point B and move onto their next job. You can't expect much more from this service.
Chauffeur drivers are very different to taxi drivers. You should, and you will expect much more from their services. The manners are impeccable. They always wear a suit and will open the door for you. They hold your umbrella and will help with luggage without asking. Chauffeur drivers are very proud of what they do. For them, they feel like they're protecting the President daily. These drivers have very strong feelings about being a part of something special and upholding the brand image of the organisation they work for. Understanding the differences between these professions will make your transportation decisions better. At the end of the day, it is only your decision, and you will make it based on your expectations and the budget.
Are taxis cheaper than chauffeured services?
To answer this question, we need to look closer at how prices for these services are calculated. Hackney taxis use meters and will calculate the price on-the-fly, which will depend on the route taken and the amount of traffic on the road. Yes, they will charge you, even if they're stuck in traffic. Chauffeur services like ours, don't use meters, we calculate prices before the journey takes place. You can have a chauffeur-driven Mercedes E-class, for example, at a surprisingly affordable price to transport you to/from the airport. And that's inclusive of meet & greet service, waiting time at the airport and car parking charges. The chauffeur will help you with luggage, offer a bottle of water and an onboard Wi-Fi connection. The value of the service you receive is incredible. Of course, the prices for hiring a chauffeur will be higher than a taxi. They must reflect the use of expensive cars, top-rated drivers, and many small extras. However, we can surely say that getting an ordinary taxi is not always a cheaper option. We provide a relaxed, professional and discreet service, enabling you to have an office on the move making you more time efficient.
Taxi or Chauffeur? - final verdict
This question can be answered depending on what you need. If you are stuck in the pouring rain in the centre of town and need to go home straight away, take the first available taxi. When you can plan your journey in advance, consider the use of chauffeured services. Understanding the difference between these two professions will help to make your decision easier. At the end of the day, you will make the choice based on your specific requirements, expectations and of course, your budget. At Parkers Executive Chauffeurs we pride ourselves in offering a first-class chauffeur service. Our aim is to amaze and delight our clients, leaving a lasting impression of quality, style and a desire to come back for more.
When you have to make the best first impression, guarantee absolute discretion and impress with every detail….. you have to choose Parkers Executive Chauffeurs.