December is usually a very busy time for Private Hire taxi drivers. Many people are going to parties, and travellers need rides to and from airports and train stations for Christmas.
However, after the New Year celebrations end, January and sometimes February bring quiet times. People spend less money and need fewer rides. This slow period is often called ‘Kipper Season’ in London.
You can use the busy days in December to prepare for these slow months.
Go to areas where you will get the highest fares and more jobs.
Late Nights: Focus on city centres and party areas late at night (especially Thursday, Friday, and Saturday). Fares are often higher.
Airport Runs: The time around December 20th is busy for people flying. Work the early morning shifts (3 am – 6 am) for airport jobs.
Tip: The night of New Year's Eve and New Year's Day is usually the most profitable time of the whole year.
Food delivery services like Uber Eats, Just Eat, or Deliveroo give you steady work when passenger rides are slow.
Financial Tip: Save some of the extra money you make in December. Keep it separate and call it your "January Fund." This gives you a cushion for the quiet weeks ahead.
To help you make the most money, check these links for details on busy areas and airport rules:
Using food delivery is a smart way to beat the January slump, but you must be correctly insured.
The Problem: Many Private Hire insurance policies DO NOT cover you for carrying "goods for hire and reward" (like a takeaway meal). If you have an accident while delivering food, your insurance might not pay.
With INSHUR, Food Delivery Cover is Included!
We know drivers need flexibility to make money during slow times. This is why we make sure your policy covers all your work:
INSHUR includes Fast Food delivery insurance cover as standard in all our Private Hire policies.
If you are an Uber driver taking Uber Eats shifts, or working for a local company delivering with Deliveroo or Just Eat, you are covered.
Find out more about our specialised private hire insurance and get a quote today!
Use the busy December weeks to make extra money. Then, drive smart by using both passenger rides and food delivery to keep your earnings steady in January.
With an INSHUR policy that covers both types of work, you can start the New Year with less financial worry.