When preparing bids for your customers, you need to keep several things in mind. You want to be sure you’re paid what you deserve. Like any business, you want to be sure you can make a good profit. Plus, you want to be able to give an accurate estimate to your customers. Here’s a checklist to help you:
1. Mileage
Most couriers charge by the job, but maybe you’d prefer to charge by the mile. This could be important if the job involves driving a considerable distance. Often, couriers that choose to charge for mileage will charge $1.60 a mile if they use a car, or $2 a mile if they use a van or truck. Check current mileage rates in your area by getting a delivery quote from another courier service
2. Load
If the load is particularly heavy, then that could bring with it an additional charge. Remember to have a hand truck with you, as this will make it easier to transport heavy or awkward items. For heavy loads, many couriers do something like, “If it’s under 25 pounds, there is no additional cost, but if it’s over 25 pounds, then they’ll be an additional fee of 10 cents for each pound after 25 pounds.”
3. Speed
If you’re asked to deliver the package or other item in a particularly speedy fashion (such as within an hour or two after you were called for the job), then an additional fee is appropriate. “Rush” service is when you’re asked to pick up an item and drop it off within two hours. Many couriers charge an additional 10% for any “rush” service jobs. “Stat” service is when you’re asked to pick up the item and drop it off within an hour. For a “stat” job, 25% extra is a customary charge.
4. When
If the delivery is taking place outside of your normal business hours, then it is customary to charge extra. If it is after hours, such as before 8:00 a.m. or between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., then charge $15 extra. If it is late night, which is between 8:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., then an extra charge of $20 is appropriate. Also, if you’re asked to pick up and deliver the item on a weekend or holiday, $20 extra is a good amount.
5. Wait Time
What if you get to the pick up site on time and you’re forced to wait a few minutes because the customer does not have the package ready? This slows you down, and could put you off schedule, especially with your other jobs that need to be completed that day. It’s certainly appropriate to charge an extra fee. If you have to wait under five minutes, don’t charge anything. If you have to wait over five minutes, consider charging 60 cents for each additional minute.
Print out this checklist and take it with you as you drive around town, delivering packages and other items. Keep it handy when you give an estimate to a customer. This will make for more accurate bids and better profits for you
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