ServiceBusiness101

Put the number in writing before you start.

Type it in on the customer's porch, save it as a PDF, and send it before you drive off. It saves in this browser as you type.

Your business License / insurance (optional)
Bill to
Estimate #
Date

Scope of work

DescriptionQtyRateAmount
Subtotal$0.00
Tax %$0.00
Estimated total$0.00
Good through
Deposit
Notes

Write down what is NOT included. Almost every price argument starts with something the customer assumed was in the number. One line — "does not include moving furniture" or "assumes existing shutoff works" — ends the argument before it starts.

And say the word "estimate" out loud. An estimate can move. A quote generally shouldn't. Telling someone which one they're holding is thirty seconds that saves a bad conversation later.