How to price a service job so you don't lose money
By iserv.in desk, 10 Nov 2026
Many small service businesses quote from habit and lose money on travel and repeat visits. Use one simple formula.
The formula
Price = (hours × hourly cost) + travel + materials + margin
- Hourly cost: what you need to earn per working hour to cover your salary, staff, rent and tools
- Travel: fuel and time to reach the customer and return
- Materials: at what you paid, plus a small handling charge
- Margin: 15–25% so a second visit or a mistake doesn't wipe out your profit
Tips
- Set a minimum visit charge and say it upfront
- Send the quote in writing on WhatsApp before you start
- Review your prices every six months