Vehicle owners often fear being overcharged because they can't see the problem. A clear quotation with parts, labour and approval steps is the quickest way for a workshop to build trust.
Record the vehicle
Include the registration number, make, model, year and odometer reading, along with the customer's reported problem. Photos of existing scratches protect you against later claims.
Separate parts and labour
List each part with quantity and price, and show labour by task or hours. State the part type:
- Genuine or original equipment
- Aftermarket
- Used or reconditioned
Clients can then choose what suits their budget, and they can't fairly compare your genuine part with a cheaper shop's copy.
Use a diagnostic charge
For complex faults, charge for diagnostics. Explain what happens next: "We'll contact you with a full quotation before carrying out any repair."
Make this quotation on your phone. Add your company once, then create and share a PDF, even without internet.
Get approval for extra work
Once you open something, you often find more. Never add to the job without permission. Send a photo and an updated price:
"Brake discs are worn below the minimum. Replacing them costs Rs 6,000 extra. Shall we proceed?"
A simple written confirmation prevents arguments at collection.
Separate urgent from optional
Mark items as "safety critical", "recommended soon" and "can wait". Honest priorities build long-term trust and more repeat work than selling everything at once.
Clarify timing and warranty
Parts can delay work, so give an estimated completion date, and mention storage charges if a finished car isn't collected. State your warranty on parts and on labour separately.
Keep past jobs on record. Knowing a vehicle's service history makes the next quotation faster and more useful.
Quotation Maker App Offline is free on Google Play. It stores your work on your phone and creates a clean A4 PDF you can share anywhere.
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