How Would You Price This Job?
Let’s say this lead comes in today: Customer says they have a “small garage cleanout.” Then they send photos and you see: - Loose boxes everywhere - Black bags stacked in the corner - Old furniture - A few heavier items - Tight driveway - Truck can’t back directly up to the garage - Customer says, “It shouldn’t take long.” Here’s the question: Are you quoting it by photos, scheduling a free onsite estimate, or passing altogether? My opinion: This is where a lot of junk removal businesses get burned. The customer says “small.”The photos say “maybe.”The job says, “You better ask better questions.” Before I price this, I want to know: 1. Can the truck get close? 2. Is everything in the garage, or is there more inside? 3. Are the bags light household trash or heavy construction debris? 4. Are there stairs, long carries, or tight access? 5. Are they looking for the cheapest guy or the right guy? A “small” job with bad access, loose items, heavy debris, and unrealistic expectations can turn into a profit killer fast. Rule of thumb: Photos help you quote faster. Questions help you quote smarter. Onsite confirmation protects your profit. What would you do? Quote by photo?Go onsite first?Pass? Drop your answer below.