VALDOSTA — A mechanic and car salesman have joined forces to introduce a much-needed service in Valdosta — a 24/7 taxi service with meters.

Known as 244-TAXI , the business duo started the operation in November last year, and, according to owners Danny Goslin and Anthony McCoppin, the taxi service is the first one and only one in the city that has meters in its cars and is available anytime and anywhere.

Compared to other services, 244-TAXI — just like New York City taxis — charges per mile. Passengers can actually see the amount due on the meters as they make their way to their destination.

Since they have five cabs and eight drivers, they can come to the desired spot in no time.

“We try to be anywhere in 15 to 20 minutes,” McCoppin said.

The business provides shuttle service anywhere — including out of town. Courier services within the city limits are available as well for $7.

According to 224-TAXI, all of the cabs are clean, smoke-free and regularly maintained; the drivers are prompt, professional and courteous.

Goslin is originally from Texas and moved to Valdosta in 1989 to work for a construction company. Later, he became a mechanic and met car salesman McCoppin, who moved to Valdosta seven years ago from Orlando, Fla.

With time, they both started sharing the same idea about a taxi service that would be available anytime.

Goslin’s daughter was calling him to pick her up late at night. He joked about how he provided a free taxi service and that it was time to start charging for it. The joke turned into a reality.

Both partners’ personal needs motivated them to provide what was missing.

In November 2008, they started with one cab, and then they added more cars to increase their availability and fast service.

“Business has been going very well so far,” McCoppin said. “We plan to add another cab and two more drivers soon.”



Q: What are your rates?



A: McCoppin: Our rates are simple. We charge $3 for pick up, and then it’s $2.50 per mile within the city limits. For out of town, we have different rates and it’ll be very cheap if a group of people uses our shuttle services because we charge per trip rather than per person.



Q: How long in advance do customers need to call in order to get a cab or a shuttle?



A: Goslin: We don’t need a notice because we are available 24/7.



To learn more about 244-TAXI, please call (229) 244-TAXI or (229) 244-8294.