How Does Uber Work?
With the global acclaim that Uber has raked in since its launch in 2012, many active users (and non-users) might be wondering how the process has overtaken the traditional cab-hailing experience. In this post, we will dig deeper into Uber’s process and lay out the details right here.
So, let’s dive in!
Uber for Dummies—How to Use It?
If you’ve never used Uber (which is one of the two things that will truly surprise us—the other being hating the cuteness that is Jackie Chan), or if you want to describe it to your parents or grandparents, here is the process in easy steps:
Step # 1: Get the Uber App
You can download the app on your smartphone by searching through the Play Store or iTunes.
For your ease: Click here for Android users and here for iPhone users.
Step # 2: Create an Account
The application would ask for your name, contact and payment details, which you can enter, set a password, and viola! You are now a proud owner of an Uber account.
Step # 3: Time to Test the Uber Waters
Well, now that you are equipped with the hailing service, all you need to do is use the app for a ride!
Request the ride by clicking “Request”. You can enter the destination at the time of request or any time through the ride. Choose the ride you want UberX if you want the cheapest solution, or any from Uber Black or Uber XL if you’re looking for more luxurious (albeit costly) options.
Once a rider accepts your ride, you’ll be on your merry way to your destination. And when the ride ends, you’ll be requested to “rate” the driver on a 5-star scale.
Is Uber Costly?
As a general rule, no. During normal circumstances, the pricing is usually half to that of the taxi service in your city. But if there is an event around your location, if there is a limited number of drivers in your area, or during rush hours, Uber imposes “surge pricing”, which increases the price of the ride.
Apart from surge pricing, the Uber pricing formula is this:
Your Fare = Base Fare + (Cost per minute * time in ride) + (Cost per mile * ride distance) + Booking Fee
Because no government regulated prices are imposed on Uber, the company can afford to provide cheaper rates.
The good: You are never forced to accept the ride with surge pricing, and the app lets you know beforehand that the extra charges will be applicable.
The bad: If you do accept, it can be quite costly for you.
Pro tip: Most of the times, the surge pricing occurs due to the unavailability of drivers during rush hours. But usually, it drops down again in a few minutes. Be a little patient and book the ride when the surged pricing is removed.
All in all, Uber is a safer, cheaper and a more comfortable alternative than regular cabs.
