Pros 
Cons A Dire Start: Initial Impressions & Booking Woes
Melbourne Cabs24x7 operates out of 15 Hickory Pl, Epping, and currently holds a concerning rating of 0.000000. This, unsurprisingly, reflects a significant number of negative experiences reported by customers. The primary issue highlighted repeatedly is the unreliability of bookings. Prospective passengers frequently find themselves waiting far beyond the estimated pickup time — often upwards of 30-45 minutes, even when bookings were made well in advance.
Several users have reported attempting to contact the phone number provided, +61 470 426 162, to inquire about delays. Often, these calls go unanswered, or the individual responding is dismissive and provides little to no useful information. One distraught customer noted, “I booked a cab for 6 am for an important flight. It didn't arrive until 6:50 am. I missed my flight. No apology, no offer of compensation. Just silence.”
The booking system itself appears to be a point of contention. While a web-based system or app would simplify tracking, Melbourne Cabs24x7 seems to heavily rely on phone bookings, which increases the risk of miscommunication and errors. Even with confirmed bookings, there's a palpable sense that promises aren't kept.
| Issue | Frequency Reported | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Late Arrivals | Very High | High |
| Unanswered/Unhelpful Phone Calls | High | Medium |
| Booking Discrepancies | Medium | Medium |
| No-Shows | Low | Critical |
Driver Experiences: A Mixed Bag (with Much Negative)
Experiences with the drivers themselves are, understandably, a secondary concern to the core problem of reliability. However, reports regarding driver conduct add another layer to the already negative reputation of Melbourne Cabs24x7. While not every driver receives criticism, a significant number of complaints have surfaced regarding professionalism and behaviour.
Here's a breakdown of what’s been mentioned:
- Route Issues: Multiple users allege drivers taking unnecessarily long routes to increase the fare. One passenger specifically detailed a driver adding an extra 10 minutes to a short journey, claiming "traffic" which the passenger later verified was non-existent via navigation apps.
- Communication Barriers: Difficulties in communication have been reported, specifically with drivers struggling to understand clear instructions or directions. This is particularly frustrating for those with limited English proficiency or needing precise drop-off locations.
- Vehicle Condition: Some passengers have described the vehicles as poorly maintained, experiencing issues like dirty interiors, malfunctioning air conditioning, and visible wear and tear. While not every vehicle is in poor condition, the frequency of reports suggests it's a common issue.
- Rare Positive Experiences: While overwhelming the negative narratives, a small number of customers have reported friendly and efficient drivers, highlighting the inconsistent nature of the service. It appears luck plays a large role in the type of driver one encounters.
“I appreciate that some drivers are doing their best, but the systemic issues with the company outweigh any individual positive experiences. Until they address the booking and operational problems, things won't change.” – Local Epping Resident
Financial Concerns & Compensation Issues
The financial aspect of utilizing Melbourne Cabs24x7 is another source of considerable angst. Beyond the inflated fares due to circuitous routes (as detailed above), users have raised serious concerns about fare accuracy and the handling of complaints regarding overcharging.
- Discrepancies in Meter Readings: A recurring theme is the perception that meters are not accurately calibrated, leading to inflated fares. Passengers are often unsure whether they've been overcharged and feel intimidated to challenge the driver.
- Lack of Transparency: The absence of clear pricing guidelines or a readily accessible fare calculator contributes to the feeling of being exploited.
- Refusal to Address Complaints: The most significant (and frustrating) issue is the company’s apparent refusal to meaningfully address complaints about overcharging or poor service. Numerous customers have attempted to contact Melbourne Cabs24x7 to resolve billing disputes or request compensation for missed appointments, but to no avail. The phone number is often ignored, and emails (if applicable) go unanswered.
- No Refund Policy (Alleged): While there's conflicting information, several users report an implied “no refund” policy, even in instances of egregious service failures like missed flights.
It's recommended that any passenger considering using Melbourne Cabs24x7 meticulously record their journey – route taken, meter readings, and any communication with the driver – as evidence in case of a dispute.
Recommendations & Alternatives in Epping
Given the overwhelmingly negative feedback surrounding Melbourne Cabs24x7, it's hard to recommend their service to anyone in Epping or the surrounding areas. Their current rating and the consistent reports of unreliability, unprofessionalism, and inadequate customer service paint a concerning picture.
Instead, locals are encouraged to explore alternative transportation options:
- Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Didi): These platforms generally offer more reliable booking systems, transparent pricing, and driver tracking. The availability fluctuates, but are often preferred.
- Local Taxi Companies (Alternatives): Researching and selecting a reputable, locally-owned taxi service within Melbourne could prove significantly more beneficial than relying on Melbourne Cabs24x7. Check online reviews and ask for recommendations within the Epping community.
- Public Transport: Epping benefits from a well-developed public transportation network, with train and bus services connecting it to various parts of Melbourne.
- Private Hire Services: Consider pre-booked private hire cars for guaranteed punctuality and reliability, especially for important appointments or events.
Ultimately, the consistent pattern of negative experiences associated with Melbourne Cabs24x7 suggests a need for significant operational improvements and a drastic change in customer service approach. Until substantial changes are implemented, passengers are strongly advised to explore alternative transportation options to avoid potential frustration and financial loss.