The way I used to price jobs vs how I do it now

Back in 2017 I would just guess a flat rate for moving trucks and labor, and I lost money on 3 out of 10 jobs because the stairs or distance added time I didn't plan for. Now I charge by the hour plus a fuel fee, and I send a quick video walkthrough request first so everything's clear upfront. Has anyone else shifted from flat fees to hourly and seen a difference in their bottom line?

3 comments

3 Comments

stellachen23d ago

Honestly I had almost the exact same wake up call with flat rate pricing back in 2016. I did a move for this lady in a third floor walkup with no elevator and the stairs were super narrow, took us almost an hour just to get the big couch around the corner. I charged her $350 flat and ended up making like $12 an hour after gas. Now I do hourly with a base rate that covers my truck and insurance, plus a solid fuel surcharge. It's way more fair for both sides and I actually sleep good knowing I'm not gambling on the job.

drew_bennett2423d ago

I hear you @stellachen but I actually still do flat rate. The trick for me was just building a way bigger buffer into the quote. That walkup scenario I charge double upfront and the customer knows why. @hannahm39 I think it depends on your area too. Some clients just want a flat number and don't like hourly surprises.

hannahm3923d ago

Yep been there. That $12/hr feeling still stings.