Taxi & Transport Scams in Shanghai, China
Overcharging, meter tampering, fake taxis, and transport cons targeting tourists. Below are the taxi & transport scams reported in Shanghai — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Kyoto, Beijing, and Taipei.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Taxi & Transport Scams
11
Total in Shanghai
How it works
Unlicensed drivers solicit passengers in the arrivals hall and exterior ramp of Pudong International Airport before travelers reach the official taxi queue. They offer fixed-price rides that sound competitive but frequently end in demands for additional fees upon arrival, citing tolls, luggage, or late-night surcharges not mentioned upfront. Some drivers take significantly longer routes to inflate time-based charges.
How it works
Some taxi drivers at Pudong International Airport quote a flat rate to the city centre rather than using the meter, claiming traffic or tolls justify the fixed price. The flat rate is almost always higher than the metered fare, sometimes by 50% or more.
See all scams in Shanghai
11 total warnings across all categories