Frequently Asked Questions

You can book a ride with us in three convenient ways:

• Phone: Call 804-208-TAXI for immediate booking (available 24/7)
• Online: Use our online booking system on our website
• Email: Send your request to booking@swiftridetaxi.com

For immediate pickup, phone booking is fastest. For advance reservations, any method works well.

Pickup times vary depending on your location and current demand:

• Richmond Metro Area: Typically 10-20 minutes
• Henrico/Chesterfield: Usually 15-25 minutes
• Outer Counties: 20-45 minutes depending on location
• Peak Times: May take longer during rush hours or busy periods

We'll give you an accurate estimate when you call. For guaranteed pickup times, we recommend advance reservations.

Yes! Airport transportation is our specialty. We provide 24/7 service to:

• RIC - Richmond International Airport
• IAD - Washington Dulles International
• DCA - Reagan National Airport
• CHO - Charlottesville-Albemarle
• PHF - Newport News/Williamsburg
• ORF - Norfolk International

We offer flight monitoring for arrivals and can provide meet & greet service upon request.

Absolutely! We accept advance reservations with minimum 6-hour notice.

Benefits of advance booking:

• Guaranteed pickup time
• Vehicle availability assured
• Perfect for early morning flights
• Business meetings and appointments
• Special events and occasions

To schedule in advance, call 804-208-TAXI, email us, or use our online booking system.

Yes! Swift Ride Taxi operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Our 24/7 services include:

• Phone booking and dispatch
• Airport transportation (perfect for early/late flights)
• Emergency transportation needs
• Late-night safe rides
• Holiday and weekend service

Note: Night surcharge of $1.00 applies between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

To ensure smooth service, please provide:

• Pickup address (specific location/building)
• Destination address
• Pickup time (for advance bookings)
• Number of passengers
• Contact phone number
• Special requests (vehicle type, wait time, etc.)

For airport trips, also mention:

• Flight number and airline (for arrivals)
• Terminal information (if known)
• Amount of luggage

Our fares are calculated using City of Richmond regulated rates via certified taximeters:

• Base fare: $2.50 for the first 1/5 mile
• Distance: $0.50 for each succeeding 1/5 mile
• Wait time: $0.50 for each 80 seconds (traffic, stops)
• Extra passengers: $1.00 each (over 6 years old)
• Night surcharge: $1.00 (9:00 PM - 6:00 AM)
• Tolls: Actual cost (added to fare)
• RIC Airport fee: $2.30 (for trips originating from RIC)

The taximeter automatically calculates all charges except tolls.

We accept multiple payment options for your convenience:

• Cash - Always accepted
• Credit Cards - Visa, MasterCard, American Express
• Debit Cards - All major debit cards
• Mobile Payments - Apple Pay, Google Pay

Corporate Billing: We offer monthly billing for business accounts. Contact us to set up corporate payment arrangements.

No Service Fees: We don't charge extra fees for card payments.

No hidden fees! All charges are transparent and regulated:

Standard charges that may apply:

• Base fare and mileage (always applied)
• Wait time during traffic or stops
• Extra passenger fees (over 6 years old)
• Night surcharge (9 PM - 6 AM)
• Airport access fee (for RIC originating trips)
• Tolls (actual cost, clearly itemized)

What's included at no extra charge:

• Luggage handling assistance
• Basic wait time for pickup
• Credit card processing
• Professional service

Wait time charges apply in certain situations at $0.50 per 80 seconds:

When wait time charges apply:

• Traffic delays and congestion
• Requested stops during the trip
• Extended pickup delays (beyond reasonable time)
• Passenger-requested waiting periods

No wait time charges for:

• Normal pickup time (first 2-3 minutes)
• Brief luggage loading
• Traffic lights and normal stops
• Brief payment processing

Wait time is automatically calculated by the taximeter and appears on your receipt.

Yes! We offer several ways to estimate your fare:

• Online Calculator: Use our fare calculator on the website
• Phone Quote: Call 804-208-TAXI for verbal estimates
• Email Quote: Send pickup/destination for written estimate

Important: Estimates are for planning purposes only. Final fare is determined by the taximeter and may vary due to traffic, route changes, wait time, and other factors.

Sample fares from Richmond:

• Downtown to RIC Airport: $25-35
• Short Pump to Downtown: $20-30
• VCU to Airport: $30-40

Yes, we have minimum fare requirements:

• General minimum: $5.00 (base fare + 1 mile)
• RIC Airport minimum: $10.00 for trips originating from Richmond International Airport

The minimum fare ensures our drivers can provide professional service while covering basic operational costs. Most trips within our service area exceed these minimums naturally.

We serve Richmond and 13 surrounding counties:

Primary Service Areas (24/7):

• Richmond City (all districts)
• Henrico County
• Chesterfield County
• Hanover County
• Goochland County

Extended Service Areas:

• King William, New Kent, Charles City
• Prince George, Amelia, Powhatan
• Hopewell, Petersburg, Colonial Heights

Airport Service: All major Virginia airports (RIC, IAD, DCA, CHO, PHF, ORF)

Yes! We provide transportation outside our primary service areas:

Long-distance services:

• Washington DC area (IAD, DCA airports)
• Charlottesville and surrounding areas
• Norfolk/Virginia Beach region
• Northern Virginia destinations
• Other Virginia cities upon request

For long-distance trips:

• Advance booking recommended
• Call for availability and pricing
• Special arrangements may be required
• Return trip coordination available

Contact us at 804-208-TAXI to discuss your specific travel needs.

Service levels vary by location:

Prime Coverage (fastest response):

• Downtown Richmond
• Richmond International Airport
• Short Pump/Innsbrook
• VCU/MCV Campus areas
• Major hotels and business districts

Standard Coverage:

• Henrico and Chesterfield counties
• Hanover and Goochland
• Other primary service areas

Extended Coverage:

• Outer counties (longer response times)
• Rural areas (advance booking recommended)
• Special destination requests

Response times increase with distance from Richmond metro area. We'll always provide accurate pickup estimates when you call.

Advance booking recommendations by area:

• Richmond Metro: Can often accommodate immediate requests
• Henrico/Chesterfield: 1-2 hours advance notice preferred
• Outer Counties: 6+ hours advance notice recommended
• Long-distance trips: 24+ hours advance notice preferred
• Airport trips: 2-4 hours advance notice for guaranteed service

While we accept last-minute requests in all areas, advance booking ensures vehicle availability and preferred pickup times.

Our fleet includes three vehicle types to meet all transportation needs:

🚗 Professional Sedans:

• Up to 4 passengers
• 2-3 large bags + carry-ons
• Perfect for business travel and airport runs
• Professional appearance

🚙 Spacious SUVs:

• Up to 6-7 passengers
• 4-5 large bags + carry-ons
• Ideal for families and groups
• Extra comfort and space

🚐 Large Passenger Vans:

• Up to 8-10 passengers
• 6-8 large bags + carry-ons
• Perfect for large groups
• Corporate and event transportation

Yes! You can request specific vehicle types when booking:

When to request specific vehicles:

• Large groups: Request SUV or van
• Business meetings: Request sedan for professional appearance
• Airport trips with lots of luggage: Request SUV or van
• Family trips: Request SUV for comfort
• Corporate events: Request specific vehicle type

How to request:

• Mention vehicle preference when calling
• Include in online booking requests
• Specify in email bookings

Note: Vehicle availability depends on current demand. We'll confirm your requested vehicle type when you book.

Absolutely! Vehicle cleanliness and maintenance are top priorities:

🧽 Cleanliness Standards:

• Professional cleaning between rides
• Interior and exterior maintained daily
• Fresh, comfortable environment
• All vehicles are non-smoking

🔧 Maintenance Standards:

• Regular scheduled maintenance
• Safety inspections up to date
• Professional automotive care
• Climate control in all vehicles

🛡️ Safety & Licensing:

• All vehicles fully licensed and insured
• Regular safety equipment checks
• Certified taximeters
• Professional driver training

Currently, our fleet does not include wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, we're committed to serving all passengers:

What we can accommodate:

• Collapsible wheelchairs (can be stored in trunk)
• Walkers and mobility aids
• Assistance with getting in/out of vehicles
• Extra time for passengers with mobility needs

How to get assistance:

• Call 804-208-TAXI to discuss your specific needs
• Mention mobility requirements when booking
• We'll work with you to find the best solution
• Can recommend accessible transportation alternatives if needed

We're always looking to expand our services and may add accessible vehicles in the future.

Luggage capacity varies by vehicle type:

🚗 Sedans:

• 2-3 large suitcases
• Multiple carry-on bags
• Personal items and briefcases
• Golf bags (with advance notice)

🚙 SUVs:

• 4-5 large suitcases
• Extensive carry-on capacity
• Sports equipment
• Multiple golf bags

🚐 Vans:

• 6-8+ large suitcases
• Group luggage for events
• Large equipment (with advance notice)
• Maximum luggage flexibility

Special luggage: Mention oversized items, sports equipment, or unusual luggage when booking so we can ensure proper vehicle selection.

Yes! All our drivers meet strict licensing and safety requirements:

👨‍✈️ Driver Requirements:

• Valid Virginia driver's license
• Professional taxi driver certification
• Clean driving record
• Background checks completed
• Regular training and updates

🎓 Professional Standards:

• Local area knowledge training
• Customer service training
• Safety protocol certification
• Professional appearance standards
• Ongoing performance monitoring

Your safety and professional service experience are our top priorities.

Yes! Swift Ride Transportation LLC is a fully licensed Virginia transportation provider:

🏛️ Official Licensing:

• Licensed Virginia LLC (Swift Ride Transportation LLC)
• DBA: Swift Ride Taxi
• Regulated by City of Richmond for taxi services
• All required permits and certifications current
• Regular compliance inspections passed

📍 Business Registration:

• Business Address: 8401 Mayland Dr #7515, Richmond, Virginia 23294
• Virginia State Corporation Commission registered
• Local business license current
• Tax identification and compliance up to date

Yes! We maintain comprehensive insurance coverage as required by law:

🛡️ Insurance Coverage:

• Commercial vehicle liability insurance
• Passenger protection coverage
• Property damage protection
• Professional liability coverage
• Coverage meets/exceeds Virginia requirements

🔒 What This Means for You:

• You're protected during transportation
• Peace of mind for all rides
• Professional service standards maintained
• Compliance with all regulations

Insurance certificates available upon request for corporate accounts.

We maintain multiple safety protocols to ensure passenger security:

🚗 Vehicle Safety:

• Regular safety inspections
• Maintenance schedules strictly followed
• Safety equipment checks
• Clean, well-maintained vehicles

👨‍✈️ Driver Safety:

• Background checks and licensing verification
• Professional training programs
• Defensive driving certification
• Local route knowledge

📱 Operational Safety:

• 24/7 dispatch communication
• Trip monitoring and tracking
• Emergency contact procedures
• Professional service standards

Your safety is our priority. If you have any concerns:

🚨 Immediate Safety Issues:

• Call 911 for emergencies
• Contact our dispatch immediately: 804-208-TAXI
• Stay calm and communicate clearly
• Note vehicle and driver information

📞 Non-Emergency Concerns:

• Call our main line: 804-208-TAXI
• Email: booking@swiftridetaxi.com
• Provide trip details and specific concerns
• We'll investigate promptly and follow up

🔍 What We Do:

• All concerns investigated thoroughly
• Appropriate corrective action taken
• Follow-up with customers
• Continuous safety improvement

For safety and liability reasons, we require passengers to provide their own car seats for children:

👶 Child Safety Requirements:

• Virginia law requires appropriate car seats for children
• Parents/guardians must provide and install car seats
• We can assist with loading/unloading but not installation
• Our drivers are trained to wait while you secure children

🛡️ Safety Recommendations:

• Bring properly fitting car seats for your children
• Ensure you know how to install the seat correctly
• Allow extra time for installation at pickup
• Consider vehicles with easier access (SUVs) for car seat installation

Contact us when booking if you need assistance choosing the right vehicle type for traveling with children.

Yes! We can accommodate stops during your trip:

🛑 Types of Stops We Handle:

• ATM or bank stops
• Pharmacy or store pickup
• Brief business stops
• Multiple passenger pickups
• Package delivery stops

💰 Stop Charges:

• Wait time charges apply: $0.50 per 80 seconds
• Meter continues running during stops
• Mention stops when booking for time estimates

⏰ Stop Guidelines:

• Brief stops (under 10 minutes) work best
• Longer stops may require special arrangements
• Driver will wait in/near vehicle
• Multiple stops should be mentioned when booking

Yes! We offer corporate transportation solutions and billing:

🏢 Corporate Services:

• Executive transportation
• Employee airport transfers
• Business meeting transportation
• Corporate event transportation
• Regular scheduled pickups

💼 Corporate Billing Options:

• Monthly invoicing
• Detailed trip reporting
• Multiple employee access
• Expense tracking assistance
• Volume discount considerations

📋 Setting Up Corporate Account:

• Call 804-208-TAXI to discuss needs
• Provide company information and requirements
• Set up billing and payment preferences
• Establish booking procedures for employees

Absolutely! We provide group and event transportation coordination:

🎉 Event Types We Serve:

• Weddings and receptions
• Corporate events and conferences
• Airport group transfers
• Special celebrations
• Sports events and concerts

🚐 Group Transportation Options:

• Multiple vehicle coordination
• Staggered pickup scheduling
• Large passenger vans for groups
• Synchronized arrival times

📅 Event Planning Process:

• Contact us early to discuss requirements
• Provide event details, dates, and passenger counts
• We'll create a transportation plan
• Coordination with event organizers
• Confirmation and day-of-event management

For event transportation, advance booking is essential. Call 804-208-TAXI to discuss your specific needs.

Yes! We offer meet and greet service for airport arrivals:

✈️ Meet & Greet Service Includes:

• Driver meets you at baggage claim or arrival gate
• Assistance with luggage
• Professional sign with your name (upon request)
• Escort to vehicle
• Flight monitoring for delays

🕐 How It Works:

• Provide flight details when booking
• We monitor your flight for delays
• Driver arrives at appropriate time
• Text/call when driver is in position
• Meet at predetermined location

📍 Available At:

• Richmond International (RIC) - most common
• Washington Dulles (IAD)
• Reagan National (DCA)
• Other airports upon request

Meet and greet service is especially valuable for business travelers, first-time visitors, and those with extensive luggage.

Flight delays are common - we're prepared to handle them:

✈️ Flight Monitoring:

• We monitor your flight status automatically
• Pickup time adjusted for delays
• No additional charges for standard delays
• Driver dispatched based on actual arrival time

📱 Communication:

• We'll contact you about significant delays
• Text updates on driver status
• You can call us with delay information
• Real-time coordination

🕒 Extended Delays:

• For delays over 2 hours, we may reschedule
• No cancellation fees for weather/airline delays
• Rebooking at no additional charge
• Flexible rescheduling options

💡 Tips: Always provide your cell phone number and flight details when booking airport pickups for the best delay management.