Navigating routes is now much easier with the help of a taxi driver. While these transportation experts do their thing behind the wheel, you have the opportunity to catch up on other things, like responding to important messages.
After a good ride, though not compulsory, you are expected to express your appreciation by giving tips. So, getting the right information on tipping or planning the appropriate way to provide gratuities is not a bad idea.
Why Should You Tip a Taxi Driver?
Remember that the principle of tipping is basic etiquette and not a code of conduct with the backing of the law. Giving Tips should be at your discretion; however, certain factors or situations should guide your tipping decision. They include;
• Low Wages and Inflation
Currently, Taxi drivers in America earn an average of $16.32 per hour, which is relatively low compared to the rising cost of living in America. The hourly or monthly earnings of f cab drivers vary based on location, skill level, certifications, and level of driver’s education.
Maintenance of the vehicle and gas fees rests on the shoulders of the driver. Additionally, most drivers in America are stand-alone contractors, so they have to pay a daily rental cost.
Taxi drivers rely heavily on tips even though they do not show or expect them. Your simple act of kindness, no matter how little it may seem, actually goes a long way in easing their burdens.
• Tipping etiquette
In a country like the United States, tipping is held in regard, and it would be considered rude to accept service without showing monetary appreciation. To be seen as an excellent customer, it is important to imbibe the tipping principle.
You don’t want service providers giving you cold shoulders when you approach them for a service. Put a smile on the cab driver’s face by giving a few bucks; it would not harm to be friendly and selfless.
• Nature of Their Job
The job of a taxi driver is very demanding, and they have to be active almost all day to make the most out of it. Also, they must be able to navigate routes excellently and quickly find suitable alternatives during traffic.
Cab drivers come in contact with so many people every day, establishing the need for exceptional communication and interpersonal relationship skills.
The constant contact with people makes their job even riskier. Some drivers might have transported serial killers, robbers, and kidnappers without knowing it, which puts their lives and freedom at risk. Some drivers fall victim to car hijackers and passengers who refuse to pay for service.
Drivers who work at night are also at risk of accidents due to the carelessness of other drivers, poor night vision, and possibly falling asleep while driving. Some drivers later develop health issues such as body aches and poor eyesight due to prolonged time spent behind the wheel.
Recommended Tipping Amount
After considering the importance of tipping cab drivers, you should know the appropriate amount to give. According to Emily Etiquette Institute, it is advisable to tip taxi drivers between 15%-20%.
It is important to note that this tipping rate is flexible. You are at liberty to give below or above depending on the quality of service gotten.
When to Tip Higher
• Positive Attitude
No one wants to contact an impolite driver because such an individual can ruin one’s day. If you are lucky to come across a friendly cab driver with an excellent attitude to work, be generous in giving a tip, possibly above 20% of your fee.
• Excellent Navigation Skill
Have you ever boarded a taxi with a driver who can beat traffic due to excellent geographical knowledge? Such a driver would know many alternative routes to save time and make the trip less boring. You can tip an extra $5 if you find this skill impressive.
• Help With Luggage
Not all taxi drivers help with luggage. If you encounter one cheerful and willing to carry your luggage into the boot or backseat, a good way of expressing your thanks is to give a beautiful tip. You can tip between 25%-30% of the service charge.
• Your Ride Distance
It is appropriate to increase tips for drivers who make your riding experience worthwhile despite the long distance. A smart way to tip appropriately is to check the driver’s meter as you get close to your drop-off location. Quickly calculate between 25%-30% of the meter’s reading, and give the result a wonderful tip.
How Much to Tip Airport Taxi Drivers
You can adapt the general tipping rule of 15%-20% for giving airport taxi drivers good gratuities. However, it would be best if you tip higher than the usual rate because they help you load and unload your luggage.
Some drivers even give some verbal tours to new visitors. With all these in mind, prepare a nice tip on your way to the airport.
Recommended Tipping Amount in Selected Places
- America
America is the hub of tipping. Though not mandatory, every service provider deserves to be appreciated in cash or in kind. Do well to tip between 15%-20%; you can go beyond this rate if you get outstanding service.
2. Mexico
Tipping is acceptable in Mexico, but you should avoid increasing tips unnecessarily to prevent a hike in cab prices which would affect locals negatively. Ensure you give gratuity in their currency.
3. Asia
Asian countries like Japan, China, and South Korea, are packed with service providers who would most likely refuse tips. They value customer satisfaction to accepting gratuities. Once your bonus is rejected, avoid trying to coerce or force them into receiving your tip.
4. Africa
Tipping is not quite popular in Africa, be rest assured that your gratuity would be well appreciated. Tip 15%-25% of your bill or even higher as you please. Ensure to give bonuses in their currency.
5. India
Gratuities are known as baksheesh in India. Failing to give your Indian cab driver some baksheesh is considered uncourteous.
Final thought
Like their service industry counterparts, taxi drivers deserve excellent tips. You don’t have to give beyond your capacity to show appreciation. Follow the tipping principle and your discretion.
