LAST EDITED ON 15-May-10 AT 02:04 PM (PST)
Like your handle, Escobar. 
Maybe I've been lucky, but over the years I've been flaked on only once. I've experienced a some waits and reschedules, but these have been balanced by the predictable and punctual.
A couple of thoughts...
I always wonder when I read a statement that says "providers are this" or "providers are that" -- as if you were purchasing a commodity from a corporate enterprise. In truth, you're dealing with individuals who have a wide range of ages, education, experiences, social backgrounds, financial situations, and personalities. Some guys seem to want a "cookie cutter" type of experience, and that's fine. For me variety is part of the fun, and the occasional disaster also leaves open the possibility of a pleasant surprise.
One thing that helps the "reliability experience" is to pay attention to the way each provider prefers to be contacted. For example, some book on the phone, others use the phone only to confirm arrivals and give directions. Some read and respond to emails and in-boxes, others ignore them. Some have a few time slots that they schedule days or weeks in advance. Others just work day to day. Most classifieds give at least a clue to the way you're most likely to be successful, and some give very specific information. The best "reliability" is usually going to go to the guys who are reading the ads and making some effort to look out for themselves.
Let's talk about responding to inquiries in a "timely manner." One of my biggest pet peeves is interrupting a session to take phone calls and answer messages. Everyone has their own definition of "timely." But if that means you're the tenth person to leave a voicemail while the lady and I are busy -- well, sorry chuck-o, you're just going to have to wait. Also, the providers I've talked to about this tell me that the majority of phone calls and emails are time-wasters -- guys who aren't really serious, want different kinds of services than she offers, j*ck off over the phone, etc. There are only so many hours in the day, and they have to be divided between secretarial duties and providing services. Unfortunately, the j*rkimers make it harder for the rest of us who really want to do business. Finally, bear in mind that providers sometimes do other things with their lives, and they may not be able to answer you while they're holding down another job, sitting in class, or taking junior to the doctor.
Okay, some providers ARE rude, disorganized, and spacey. If you see a pattern like this in the reviews, you can choose to avoid them. If you have a bad experience, don't go back. That's how it works.
I agree with the RB bros who said that reliability may have little to do with service. Thinking about two ATFs... One would never be able to see me when I arrived. So, I would always plan to spend a few minutes in a nearby coffee shop, knowing that when she was finally ready she would be prepared to give me her complete attention. The other I could time with a precision that would allow planning a visit between business appointments. My version of heaven would include both.
peas,
Aprime
