Winning the job is easy if you're cheap enough. Winning it AND making money takes a pricing method. Here's one that works.
Plenty of trades are busy and still broke. Usually it's not a work problem — it's a pricing problem. Here's how to price so the work is actually worth doing.
Your hourly rate isn't what you'd like to earn — it's what covers your costs and pays you properly. Add up your annual costs (vehicle, tools, insurance, super, admin time, downtime) and divide by your realistic billable hours. That number is your floor.
You spend time sourcing, collecting and warranting materials — that time has a cost.
A 10–20% markup on materials is standard and fair.
Don't pass materials through at cost; you're carrying the risk if something fails.
**Every job has surprises.** A small contingency (5–10%) on uncertain work means a hidden problem doesn't wipe out your profit. Be transparent about it in your terms.
There's always someone cheaper. Compete on speed, professionalism and trust instead — a fast, clear, well-presented quote justifies a higher price. The number on the page matters less than how confident the client feels handing you the job.
Costs creep up. Review your rate at least once a year, and after any big change in fuel, materials or insurance. Quoting tools like UteQuote keep your rates consistent so you're not re-inventing the price on every job.
Win more work with a clear, professional Builder quote. Itemise your labour and materials so clients know exactly what they're paying for — and say yes faster.
Win more work with a clear, professional Concreter quote. Itemise your labour and materials so clients know exactly what they're paying for — and say yes faster.
Win more work with a clear, professional Landscaper quote. Itemise your labour and materials so clients know exactly what they're paying for — and say yes faster.
Win more work with a clear, professional Tiler quote. Itemise your labour and materials so clients know exactly what they're paying for — and say yes faster.
UteQuote turns a quick voice note into a professional quote, estimate or ATO-compliant invoice in seconds. Talk through the job — we'll do the typing.