By Anthony Varriano
Ranger-Review Staff Writer
A new taxi and delivery service is open for business in Glendive, providing a safe ride home for those enjoying libations and food delivery from any local restaurants or stores for those looking to avoid driving.
Harmeet Singh wanted to bring Glendive some of the services he enjoyed in his former home, Washington, D.C., and decided to pursue a professional cab service like in a big city.
“I’m just trying to do something to help the community here in Glendive. That’s my main focus,” he explained.
Singh said it took about two months for Montana Public Services to approve his idea, but the real obstacle was paying commercial insurance on his Jeep SUV.
“I used to have a brand new car, and insurance was like $90 per month on it. Now it’s about $400 per month,” he informed.
Singh said commercial insurance plans are very expensive in Montana and are “killing the cab businesses,” but he didn’t get into the business to make a load of money, which is why he kept his job as general manager at the Astoria Hotel.
“I hardly had any calls in the morning, so I’m glad I didn’t quit my day job,” he laughed.
Singh said the late hours of driving cab cut into his sleep, but even if he gets a call at 2 or 3 a.m. he goes, “because my customers need me.”
Singh charges $2.75 per mile per person and can take anyone anywhere in Montana or other states. He hasn’t had many calls for food delivery yet, but thinks that will pick up in the winter time when people don’t want to leave the house and travel icy roads.
“This could be good for (restaurants) if they want to start a delivery they can just call me. This would save the business from paying someone to deliver for them,” Singh said.
Singh is open for suggestions and advice for his new business.
“Even in a small town, they need professional services, too,” he said.
You can reach the Glendive Cab and Delivery Service at 406-939-4494 or on Facebook.
Reach Anthony Varriano at rrsports@rangerreview.com.