Taking Control
Why are shop rates so low compared to other trades? Can I ditch my DRPs and still stay in business? What the heck should I pay my shop manager? If you’re like most of us, you’ve had questions but no one to answer them. That’s why we started this annual Readers Choice issue, now in
Learning to Grow Your Business
Finding ways of dealing with the evolutionary and revolutionary changes of this industry.
Producing a Buff-Free Finish
Are you one of those people who thinks it’s impossible to do a paint job without having to buff it before delivery? If so, think again.
Supply & Demand: A Misunderstood Concept
Insurers offer volume in return for lower prices. But volume discounts do NOT apply to labor.
You Get What You Tolerate
“Shop owner Jeff Delana asks, “How do I get the insurer to pay for the complete repair of the vehicle without non-stop faxing and adjusters coming and going for ridiculous and obvious damage approvals?”
Parts, Policies and Patsies
Shop manager Bradley Wooten asks why American Family Insurance is getting by using strictly used or A/M parts.
You CAN Create Customers
Shop co-owner Chuck Logan asks whether he can tell DRPs to take a hike and still stay in business.
Who’s Really In Control?
Painter Thomas Ferry questions why autobody shop rates are so low compared to other trades
By Door Rate Dollars, We’re In the Dumper
Autobody shop rates.
Where’s Uncle Sam When You Need Him?
Bill Johnson, body shop manager/lead tech, Beecher, Inc., Shenandoah, Iowa, asks:
“Why doesn’t the federal government mandate shop and technician
licensing by all state governments with strong enforcement to eliminate incompetent and unscrupulous shops and technicians?”
Shop Manager, Show Me the Money
eff Rice, body shop manager, Pace Collision Center, Huntington, Indiana, says, “I always see what you’re supposed to pay techs, but what should managers make?
