Pros 
Cons A Reputation For Reliability and Friendly Service
Get Maxi Cabs consistently earns high praise, demonstrated by its impressive 4.8-star rating. Numerous customers highlight the exceptional level of service, particularly praising Saif and his team for their promptness, professionalism, and reasonable pricing. Many reviewers appreciate the ease of securing a mini-van in the bustling CBD, even on short notice late at night, showcasing the company's flexibility and efficiency. Several users explicitly state they will reuse Get Maxi Cabs on future visits to Melbourne, and recommend it to friends and family. This suggests a strong foundation of customer loyalty built on positive experiences.
Here's a breakdown of services frequently mentioned positively:
- Airport Transfers: Frequently cited as a strong point, with consistently early arrivals and smooth transport from Melbourne Airport to the city and back.
- Family-Friendly Services: A significant number of reviews highlight the provision of high-quality baby seats upon request, demonstrating a commitment to catering to families.
- Luggage Capacity: The ability to comfortably accommodate families, luggage, and even surfboards within their vehicles is a recurrent theme, particularly the mini-van. This is a key advantage for tourists and those traveling with significant belongings.
- Communication: Outstanding communication is consistently mentioned – from efficient phone interactions to timely updates and arrival notifications. This is especially valuable for airport transfers where punctuality is key.
- Pre-booked Service: Providing cab details prior to pick-up time.
The Shadow of Rising Concerns: Pricing and Driver Conduct
Despite the overwhelming positive feedback, a significant thread of concern emerges regarding the Melbourne taxi industry as a whole. Several reviewers express dismay at the changing behaviour of taxi drivers, relating directly to Get Maxi Cabs in some cases. The criticism centres around a concerning shift away from standard metered fares and a move towards demanding cash payments before passengers are even allowed entry into the vehicle. One individual recounts being denied a ride at Flinders Street despite visiting the taxi rank—a place where this behaviour would be unacceptable.
Here's a summary of the identified problems:
- Refusal of Prepaid Fares: Drivers allegedly refusing to accept prepaid fares (as typically done at ranks) and instead demanding upfront cash payment.
- "New Buzz Words": The repeated questioning of a customer's destination and their ability to pay in cash before allowing entry.
- Lack of Meter Usage: Suggesting a deliberate avoidance of using the meter, potentially leading to inflated fares.
- General Industry Decline: A shared sentiment amongst some respondents is that the overall quality and integrity of the Melbourne taxi service has declined considerably.
- Comparison with Ride-Sharing Services: The stark price difference between standard taxi fares (often $47 from Southern Cross to Chinatown) and considerably cheaper Uber fares ($14) is repeatedly emphasized as a major factor driving customers away.
Contrasting Experiences: A Range of Perspectives
The reviews present a complex and sometimes contradictory picture of Get Maxi Cabs' service, mirroring the broader issues facing the Melbourne taxi industry. While many are consistently positive, highlighting reliability, friendly drivers, and efficient communication, others reveal frustrating experiences linked to wider industry issues. It’s apparent a division exists between those who benefited from the specific practices and service offered by Get Maxi Cabs and those encountering more universal problems within Melbourne’s taxi landscape.
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects (Industry-Wide) |
|---|---|
| Prompt and punctual service | Increasingly common refusal of prepaid fares |
| Friendly and professional drivers (Saif and Team) | Demands for cash payment before travel |
| Competitive and reasonable pricing | Lack of meter usage & potential fare inflation |
| Excellent communication (airport transfers, updates) | Perceived decline in overall taxi service quality |
| Easy booking and mini-van availability | Ridesharing services offering significant price advantages |
| Provision of baby seats upon request |
Navigating the Melbourne Taxi Landscape: Considerations for Travellers
The overwhelming body of feedback regarding Get Maxi Cabs highlights a company striving to provide a reliable and customer-focused service. However, prospective users should be aware of the wider context of the Melbourne taxi industry and potential challenges.
Here's some advice when considering Get Maxi Cabs, or indeed any taxi service in Melbourne:
- Pre-booking is Recommended: To ensure a smoother experience and potentially avoid issues related to drivers declining fares, pre-booking through Get Maxi Cabs (phone: +61 404 355 933) is strongly advised.
- Be Aware of Cash-Only Demands: If confronted with requests for cash payment before the ride, be prepared to politely decline and consider alternative transportation options like Uber.
- Compare Prices: Before committing to a trip, compare pricing with ride-sharing services to ensure you are receiving a fair fare.
- Consider the Potential for Industry Issues: Be prepared for the possibility of encountering some of the issues highlighted in the reviews, such as reluctant drivers or inflated pricing, and have a backup plan.
- Specify Requirements: When booking, clearly state any specific needs like baby seats, extra luggage space, or wheelchair accessibility.