When I arrived at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) late one night, I was exhausted and just wanted to get to my hotel. The last thing on my mind was calling a Shanghai taxi. I’d heard about night tariff surcharge, which is normal in many cities, so I was ready for a slightly higher fare. But after a 40-minute drive, the driver handed me a bill that was far beyond what I expected.
Cabs from the airport are like 50% trustworthy in Shanghai, it sucks if you catch a bad one. How to avoid being scammed and choose the right taxi service to navigate in the city?
Types of Taxis in Shanghai
Shanghai offers a few taxi options to choose from, each with its advantages and challenges. After my incident, I made sure to get familiar with these choices:
- Regular Taxis in Shanghai: The iconic yellow and white taxis are everywhere in the city. You can easily flag them down on the street or find them at official taxi stands. But there’s a risk if you’re not familiar with the city or don’t speak local Shanghai dialect. Drivers often use the meter, but language barriers can still lead to misunderstandings or wrong routes, and some even charge tourists inflated rates.
- Didi: Known as China’s answer to Uber, Didi is a popular ride-hailing app used by locals and foreigners. It offers more transparency with fixed rates displayed on your phone and has an option for English-speaking customer service. However, getting a Didi right after a long flight, especially if you have kids or lots of luggage, can be a hassle. You need an internet connection, a Chinese phone number or eSIM card, and patience to wait for your driver, which might not be ideal for travellers arriving at midnight.
- KiwiTaxi: This is where KiwiTaxi comes in. It’s an international transfer service that’s particularly useful for travelers arriving at Shanghai’s airports. Unlike the other options, KiwiTaxi is designed to cater specifically to bulky luggage tourists and first-time China tourists, there will be a professional driver waiting for you at the arrival hall with your name sign, guide you to the car and then take you to your destination.
Differences Between Shanghai Taxi, Didi, and KiwiTaxi
When it comes to choosing the right taxi service, understanding the differences between these three options can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s why I now opt for KiwiTaxi whenever I can:
- Professional and English-Speaking Drivers: One of the best things about KiwiTaxi is the peace of mind it offers. When you book a KiwiTaxi, you’re not just getting a driver; you’re getting a professional who is well-versed in dealing with international travelers. This is particularly helpful if you don’t speak Mandarin. The driver meets you in the arrival hall holding a sign with your name on it, so there’s no confusion about finding your ride. I can’t tell you how reassuring it is to see someone waiting for you after a long flight, especially when they speak English!
- Perfect for Tourists with Bulky Luggage: Traveling with bulky suitcases? No problem! KiwiTaxi drivers are prepared to accommodate larger luggage, which regular taxis and even Didi might struggle with. During my trip, I had two large suitcases and a carry-on bag. The driver not only knew this in advance but was ready with a spacious vehicle. This small detail saved me from a lot of unnecessary stress.
- Convenient for Families with Kids: Traveling with kids can be challenging, and late-night arrivals only add to the stress. With KiwiTaxi, I didn’t have to worry about whether there would be a child safety seat or if the driver would be patient with my jet-lagged children. KiwiTaxi offers options for family travelers, such as child seats, which aren’t as easily available in regular taxis or Didi. This is a huge relief for parents!
Booking Process and Tips
Booking a KiwiTaxi is straightforward. You can easily reserve a ride through their website or app. Here are some quick tips based on my experience:
- Book in Advance: It’s always a good idea to book your KiwiTaxi before your flight. This way, you can relax knowing someone is waiting for you.
- Share Details About Luggage and Family Requirements: If you have large bags or need a child seat, let them know while booking. They’re very accommodating.
- Stay Connected: While KiwiTaxi drivers track your flight, it’s still helpful to have some way to communicate. You can use free Wi-Fi at the airport if needed.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Peace of Mind
Traveling in a foreign country can be intimidating, but choosing the right taxi service can significantly impact your experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with kids, or someone lugging heavy bags, having a reliable, English-speaking driver waiting for you is invaluable. For me, KiwiTaxi offers a sense of security and convenience that’s hard to match.
If you’re visiting Shanghai, especially if you’re arriving late at night like I did, think about your transfer options carefully. While regular taxis and Didi might be tempting, opting for KiwiTaxi could save you from an unexpected headache—and maybe even a midnight taxi scam.
By sharing my experience and highlighting these differences, I hope you’ll be able to make an informed decision for your trip to Shanghai. Safe travels!