Transportation

Taxi Service

Taking a taxi is a fast and convenient choice of transport for travelling around Shanghai. There are more than 50,000 taxis in Shanghai. The taxi’s registration plate number and the company’s customer service phone numbers are clearly displayed in the cars.

Formal taxis can be easily identified by the logo that lights up on the top of the car. One of the unique features of taxis in Shanghai is the transparent shield that is beside the driver’s seat, which serves as a protection from some attacks.

Taxis are in short supply during peak periods, rainy days and public holidays. Passengers are advised to accordingly plan their journey during these circumstances to allow for longer waiting times.

Fares

Taking taxis in Shanghai is more expensive than in other cities. In the daytime, the minimum fare is 13 yuan for the first 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), an additional charge of 2.4 yuan for every succeeding kilometer within 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and 3.6 yuan for every succeeding kilometer after 10 kilometers. An additional fuel surcharge of 1 yuan should be paid per journey. Being stuck in a traffic jam bumps up the bill as five minutes of waiting time costs the same as that of a kilometer. 

A 30 percent night surcharge is set from 11pm to 5am.

At night from 11 pm to 5 am the next morning, the fare is 18 yuan (including 1 yuan of fuel surcharge) for the first three kilometers, an additional charge of 3.1 yuan for every succeeding kilometer within 10 kilometers and 4.1 yuan for every succeeding kilometer after 10 kilometers.

Tips

∎ As mentioned people may have a tough time finding cabs in rush hours and on rainy days. Taxi call centers also tend to be busier during such times. Your best choice is probably to head to places where there are more taxis, such as restaurants.

∎ Don't try to hail a cab at crossroads, as taxi drivers cannot stop to pick up passengers within 30 meters away from an intersection.

∎  Most taxi drivers are amicable, but their English is limited. So it's best to get someone to write down your destination in Chinese.

∎ Remember to take the receipt. The slip will contain information on the taxi, including its plate number and the taxi company. In case you leave something in the car, the receipt will give you clues to find it.

∎ In case you come across a "juzai" or some other unpleasant experience with a taxi, you can complain to the local taxi authority by dialing 962000.

∎ All the taxis in the city are compatible with the Public Transportation Card. If a driver refuses to accept the card, you have the right to decline payment.