Flat Rate Pricing
Charge one price regardless of time or materials:
- Best For: Standard services with predictable scope
- Examples: AC tune-up ($179), water heater install ($1,200)
- Benefits: Easy for customers to understand, no surprises
- Setup: Set single price per service in the Price Book
- Profitability: Based on efficient completion within estimated time
- Tips: Include all labor and standard materials in flat rate
Hourly Pricing
Charge based on time spent:
- Best For: Diagnostic work, repairs with unknown scope
- Setup: Set hourly rate in the Price Book (e.g., $125/hour)
- On Estimates: Estimate hours needed, calculate
- Minimums: Set minimum hours (e.g., 1 hour minimum)
- Multiple Rates: Different rates for different skill levels
- Time Tracking: Actual time tracked for billing accuracy
Per Unit Pricing
Price based on measurable units:
- Per Square Foot: Flooring, painting, roofing ($3/sq ft)
- Per Linear Foot: Fencing, gutters, trim ($15/linear ft)
- Per Window: Window cleaning, replacement ($75/window)
- Per Room: Carpet cleaning, painting ($200/room)
- Per Outlet: Electrical work ($50/outlet)
- Calculation: Rate × measured units = total price
Choosing the Right Method
Select the best calculation type:
- Use Flat Rate for: Routine maintenance, standard installations
- Use Hourly for: Troubleshooting, diagnostic work, repairs
- Use Per Unit for: Scalable services with measurable scope
- Mix Methods: Combine on one estimate (flat rate + per unit)
- Customer Preference: Some prefer flat rate predictability