[biker1]

Without checking the current rate every time we have had a reservation, it is hard to say if there is a premium. There isn't an additional "fee" to book ahead that I have ever seen. If could just be something that is baked in. If you google this you will see claims that there is reservation premium. My gut feel is it doesn't make much difference or could be a bit lower cost to make a reservation in some cases based on demand. The lowest cost we have ever seen coming back from MCO was with a reservation. Since we know the typical range of prices, we check the prices a few times before actually making the reservation. The Uber and Lyft pricing is dynamic. We have never experienced a driver not showing. You can monitor how far away the driver is on the app. Regardless, I think it is a good idea to make a reservation if you know your plans and sample the prices before pulling the trigger. As always, your mileage may vary.

Uber and Lyft don't charge anything until the trip is complete so in the unlikely event that a driver doesn't show up for a reservation it doesn't cost you anything.

Originally Posted by HIgolfers

Reserving in advance, at least on Uber, means nothing. You are not guaranteed a ride.Drivers may not pick you up so you are paying a premium for no reason.