Who’s Really In Control?
Painter Thomas Ferry questions why autobody shop rates are so low compared to other trades
Just Say “No”
Will shop owners tolerate a reduction of paint-time allowances?
Write Better Estimates
The estimate is the most important aspect of our business process. If an estimate is poorly written, it can wreak havoc on your shop and cost you a boatload of cash.
Sell your Estimate
If you’re not explaining your estimate to a consumer and preparing him for why your competitor’s estimate may be lower, you might as well not bother writing the estimate.
Apathy
A massive segment of repairers – wallowing in yesteryear’s thinking and uninterested in learning anything new – are driving themselves out of business. Do you fit this description?
Sold: Have You Ever Wondered what Happens to Body Shop Owners who Sell their Businesses?
In the final installment of our series, former shop owner Tom Sellers recounts why not to use buried money as a down payment and why he sold his shop to the son of a former competitor.
The Jury’s In: Save their Deductibles?
They come in all shapes and sizes, but their goal is the same: They want you to save their deductible. Thirty years ago, deductibles didn’t seem to be such a big deal. In fact, 30 years ago, some insurance companies actually wrote policies with zero deductibles. In the late 1960s, I was an apprentice in
Stupid Owner Tricks
Does the owner of the collision repair shop where you work make Forrest Gump look like Einstein? Take solace in the knowledge that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Shattered Market: The Body Shop Glass Business
NAGS list price discounts are increasing, labor payments aredecreasing and deals made behind our backs are eroding profitability. Still, you might want to consider performing your own glass installations since, ultimately, you’re the one shouldering the liability.
Sold: Have You Ever Wondered What Happens to Shop Owners Who Sell Their Businesses?
Part four of a five-part series.
You Determine Pricing
In an unregulated industry like collision repair, prices are subject to whatever the market will bear. Payers do not control prices. You can use any guide you want, write estimates on the back of your business cards or give written quotes in Euro exchange rates if you like. You might have missed a National Association
A Bay at the Beach: Rick’s Auto Collision
This thriving oceanside shop prospers in a DRP-free state where shop owner and teacher Rick Starbard is making waves in his industry.
