![Price and Quote Jobs as a Solo Tradesperson](https://cdn.slatesource.com/5/7/2/5727d181-bd0b-4471-9d83-594b05ac2535.jpg)

# Price and Quote Jobs as a Solo Tradesperson

- [Made in Slatesource](https://slatesource.com/s/932)
- By [KaiRenner](https://slatesource.com/u/KaiRenner)
- Business & Finance
- Created on Mar 21, 2026

## Pricing and Quoting Jobs as a Solo Tradesperson

Confident, profitable pricing starts with knowing your true hourly cost. Add materials, overhead, and a margin before quoting. A clear written quote protects you and sets customer expectations.

**$85/Hour** 

**20%** 

Estimate Costs

Calculate your true hourly cost: desired annual salary divided by billable hours, plus overhead per hour. Add materials at cost plus 15 to 25 percent markup. Never guess on materials costs.

Write the Quote

Use a quote template with your business name, job description, itemized costs, timeline, and payment terms. Send as a PDF. Include a clear acceptance process and expiry date.

Invoice and Follow Up

Invoice immediately on job completion. Offer bank transfer and card payment. Set net 7 payment terms for residential. For commercial clients start at net 15 and adjust based on payment history.

Pricing Setup Checklist

0%

Calculate your true hourly rate including all overhead

Create a materials markup policy and document it

Build a quote template in Google Docs or a free tool like Invoice Ninja

Set payment terms and add them to every quote

Open a business bank account separate from personal

Track every quote sent and its win or loss outcome

Review your pricing every 6 months against costs and market rates

> Raise your prices before you need to. Most solo tradespeople are undercharging for years before a cash crisis forces the conversation. Steady small increases are easier to absorb than a sudden large jump.