My mentor doubled his prices, which cut his client-numbers in half, his work load in half, his worries in half, his complaints in half, and he still made the same amount of money..... BRILLIANT!
That’s actually a very good strategy if you can find those unicorn customers. I have a friend in Tennessee who owns a solar screen business. He only takes on projects from rich clients who pay on time and demand quality work. He leaves the smaller, low-profit jobs to his competitors.
Did the same thing. Went from keeping several crews busy in cutthroat business to changing to small welding and mobile welding repairs with minimum investment less problems. Alot less problems and alot more profitable.
When I worked doing Automotive front ends brakes and alignments I made $158,000 a year. There is money to be made turning wrenches. Thank you sir great video can't wait to see the whole video series
@Roger Prodactor no they were mechanic making I want more than me. I had a lot of different customers. I would build specially front ends. Custom brakes fabricate what I need to do
When I organized my own on-site repair service truck company I set the price at 140/hour. My business metor, who also happens to be a customer, also advised me NOT to discount travel time -- charge full rate from the moment I turn the key in my driveway until I get back home.
Unfortunately unless mechanics also go get their HEV certs and take Industrial electrical courses they are becoming a thing of the past with these companies making electric vehicles the new norm...
@@lonewolftech mechanics have had to do upgrade courses for all of time. Not to long ago there was a single OBd computer on board and you could check codes by counting flashing sequences. And electric cars still have gearboxes, wheel bearings, breaks, pinions, steering, AC, ect ect. Expecting someone not to have to learn new things isn’t realistic
@@cmcmillan22 I really want to go work at a dealership for a years as I learn to be a pretty proficient mechanic then venture into my own mobile mechanic business. Do you think with ev popularity thst there will still be work for mechanics in 30 years?
Steve I agree 100% with what you’re trying to teach people as these young guys are coming on I own a business as well. I’ve been doing it for over 33 years. And all the points you’re making are absolutely correct. Keep up the good work in the videos.
Thank you for this. Its really eye opening. Im 1 year away from graduating from my tech school with my associates in Automotive and diesel technology and plan on doing this its good to know that its possible
I don't have a college education worked hard for 27-28 years as a mfg rep self employed work on straight commission paid my own traveling expenses furnished my own car and ended up making well into six figures a year for a lot of years retired at the age 47 or 48 started a landscaping company part time it has now grown into a 4 employee company working 12 months a year. LOL so much for it being part time!
Great video steve. I live in one of those areas where all the cheap people live. I normally try to beat dealer cost and the customers tend to return. But I also have a full time job so customers know I have to work around that. Plus I deal in cash only
Great video. I’m slowly starting at shop at home in Ontario Canada. Been working as a diesel mechanic for the last 18 years. Wanting to just work on cars and pick ups.
This is the most important video I have watched in my life. I plan on doing mobile before I watched this vid but now I am more focused. After working for a year after I finish school I am absolutely starting my own business.
As a retired diesel mechanic forty years ago I was making $18.00 bucks a hour. The problem was the tool cost, I had a friend who was a master electrician worked for the DC subway system made $27.00 bucks a hour and carry his tools in a in a small tool bag!?!?!? I believe he was the wise than I.
Did you ever make the Playlist you mentioned in this video? I am not seeing it. Thank you so much for making this it is very close to the rates I am charging. It has changed my life big-time working for myself!
Good stuff! I like all your vids but I love how you break down business aspect. More people need to feel comfortable with those skills. That’s how we all get better👍
Bro I like this guy but I just watched a video he did and in his shop I seen a confederate flag on his wall unless he can explain why the confederate flag I definitely will be Unsubscribing.
Im a foreman for a large Concrete Construction Company . And we have three full-time mechanics a lot of times they cannot keep up . So we have to call the dealer to come out and work on the equipment . And they charge a fortune and take forever to show up and fix the problem . I wish we had more small time guys around here like what you're talking about . I have a lot of buddies that own small construction companies and they would definitely hire someone to come out and work on their stuff .
This is one on the best career videos I ever watch. I am mechanically inclined person and in recent months, I contemplated going to school to become a mechanic . At the present time I am getting my associate's degree in mathematics. Finishing my mathematics degree is out on the question. Why not complete it if you do well in mathematical subjects, but I realize along with those who know me that I enjoy doing both - being a mechanic and a math guy. 👨🏫
Awesome. Thanks so much for sharing your experience! I've been doing mobile tractor repair for numerous years. I keep raising my rates, but need to do it more. My biggest issues are with cheap people, and why do I want to work for them?.... Makes perfect sense. Time to implement, the strategy. Take the jobs I want. Avoid the cheap clients. 😊
Seriously few months ago I seen it and it changed my life I was pursuing a career in IT and found out those guys are worked to death also. This video gave me the spark I needed to say hey I can do this I’m already a heavy equipment mechanic
Make sure to charge out ALL the time you have on a job. Loading your truck, picking up parts, travel time, clean up time, paperwork time. This is all part of the job and should be charged as such. And everything gets marked up, not just parts. Did you pay overnight freight to get that part the next day? Mark that freight up 30%. Drop a cylinder off at a hydraulic shop to get repaired? Mark the vendor's parts and labor up 30%. Charge a percentage of labor as a "shop supplies" charge, 7-10% will do. If you work on a jobsite where some special license or training is required (say...OSHA30, MSHA, HAZMAT, etc.), your labor rate increases.
Love working on car always have I'm a 2nd year apprentice and looking forward to starting my own business think on doing some mobile stuff like batteries and the small stuff this helped alot thanks
Thanks for the info I work for the city of Houston as a light duty tech and I needed this because I was think of moving to the heavy shop working on vactors and HRTs I do pms in them already.
Awesome video Stephen. I'm a mobile mechanic in Australia and have followed this strategy for several years and is really good advice... we shouldn't feel like we need to do every job, but rather do those jobs that pay well for those customers who are prepared to pay a premium for mobile work which at the end of the day is a lot more convenient for the customer.
Hey I’m planning on going to DFW eventually. Currently I am at a turning point continuing on mobile mechanic for conveyor belts of shipping industry or get into diesel starting for equipment retal and do plan on if diesel going solo also. Is there room for more mobile diesel mechanics in DFW currently and continue to be?
There’s a lot hiring in the area, they can’t find good help, all us older techs are thinning out, I’m still going, not sure how much longer though.. 35yrs of this mess been enough
Here some more things to consider. It takes time to bill out, pay bills, maintenance, etc. So, being realistic, 20 to 35 hrs a week is actually pretty realistic and still be actually working close to full-time.
I had the same experience running my tow trucks.Charging bargain-basement you met horrible people. People that were willing to pay over $120 for a tow were much nicer, The cars were nicer cars also(San Francisco in the 90s) Towing for shops paid about the same as towing for wrecking yard there is no money made their. Shops always want to bargain and then charge the customer a premium price. That made the tow truck company bad
One thing you didnt mention that im curious about is insurance? Whats the cost of professional liability insurance working on heavy equipment plus commercials vehicle plates taxes etc?
I really liked this video just have one question, how do you keep clients or recommendations if you’re only available 15-20hours a week? Do you only do emergencies or scheduled jobs. I really hope to hear back because I’ve always wanted to go mobile and work for myself. Thanks in advance buddy!
Ok the money is there for sure. But could you do a video on how getting paid works. Do they pay you monthly. Do they pay you after or before you go out there. Also how do you go about getting parts. Did you pay cash and then charge them or did you have an account soemwhere
I've been trying to start a mobile repair business for a little while now and this video popped up, all my friends told me I was gonna be charging too much at $75/hr but this changes my mind, I haven't been getting much customers but this video has helped me understand some circumstances better. I look forward to watching more videos. Thanks for the advice!
I REALLY need to bump up my rates.... I've NEVER charged a mark-up on parts (so far) and I've usually charged less than 50% of a labor estimate. Just did a no start diag, on a Ford Freestyle, due to a locked up alternator... New alternator installed for $50. Took me about 3 hours. (Will NEVER quote that one that low again.) Editing the 2-part steering rack AND intermediate shaft replacement video on '05 ES330 now, that I charged $100 labor and $20 materials. (Good friend and repeat customer) My only REAL gain at this point is REPUTATION and customer base. I NEED a garage for anything that can't be EASILY done where the car sits.... THEN... I'll charge more, because I'll be able to get it done faster.
I have tools, a 24x48x14 pole barn with a pair of 2 post lifts in the pole barn. I'm a ASE Master Automobile Tech and a state certified master tech. I also have some heavy duty vehicle licenses in my state. I just can't get myself to take the risk. I'm not a people person and I have no experience owning a business. I'd love to make this kind of money while working less but it seems risky for me.
Sourcing parts should be interesting. On cars it's easy, set up a commercial account at one or multiple auto part stores. I still don't understand why some mechanics will call in to get a price, but they're getting the parts at retail. How are those guys making any money?
Hey Mr Cox.. Would it be a great Idea to have some experience as a Field tech before you go out to start your own mobile business? Im new in this industry
go for commission when it is available lower the pay rate the better make that weekly avarage and get from 30 to 179 a hour from commission in about a month
It cost you for every moment you are open. Just showing up starts the meter. Your automobile or truck costs you every mile. I drive for a living a living and drive a 10 year old Honda. It cost me about 35 cents a mile for insurance, gas, property tax, maintenance, (I do it myself) depreciation before I make a dime.
Stephen, I really admire what your doing brother. I own a mobile mechanic business in Florida. I started my company after leaving a job working on Semi trucks & big diesel stuff. I intended to stay with semi trucks, fleets & big diesel, but I’ve been getting nothing but calls for private vehicles, people complaining about the service call fee for my 16ft box truck/shop on wheels to come to their house while they watch TV & get their cars fixed. Any advise on how I can transition back to the big truck world?? I’m grateful for the revenue I’m producing with cars, but really want to be doing fleet maintenance & truck work. Thanks in advance!
I just retired after 30 years of h.d. diesel /emg equip. [gov/federal].. it was my second job "sears was first eww" was on call 24/7 w/ scheduled time off. contract was 35 hr wk. \ @ 91g base for last 15 years 1.5x till 60 hrs then dbl pay its not a cushy job your either dedicated to it or do not bother the pay is great but nothing is given u earn it
You are talking about gross sales. That's not what you "make". That's just what you bill. What you make is what is left after you pay for tools, parts, service information, insurance, and non billable time (estimating, billing, finding parts, taking phone calls, etc). In my area, if you want to charge $100/hr, plus mileage, and you only do the simple jobs, you will get NO work. The dealers are not even charging $100/hr, they don't charge mileage, and they have the tools and information to fix anything.
Thats incorrect, we use to have dealers service equipment till they just hired a service guy to do it. Let's say a Volvo ec60 mini Excavator, oil change, fuel filters, air filters, hyd filters, 500hr service, we supply filters, they charge 40mi travel round trip, 3hrs on job, and cost of motor oil 3gal 3.5 whatever it is and 1/2gal hyd oil to top off after filter change, its between 8-850 for that little machine! And this is the cheaper company outa say 4, cat, jd, volvo,Kubota
Hey Stephen, when you charge customers to drive out to them, do you charge them per mile only one way or there and back? Thanks for the vids, appreciate the info
I charge $85 but I live in 1 of the lowest household income states in the country, i cannot keep up with the work. All it takes is a lot of knowledge and a lot of tools and you can make all you want.
@@chrisE815 the point is I'm small towns with no money people will absolutely not pay ridiculously high repair bills they will skip past you and find someone else
@@yodarrr4008 hey what’s up buddy , here where I’m from all the field guys are making 34$+ , and we all get a easy amount of overtime . We easily push 90k and I know some of the guys with a bit more seniority making high thirtys
@@yodarrr4008 If you're googling that number, it's wrong. That figure includes everyone from the master techs, to the broom pushers, and porters, and averages their pay out to 55k. It's the same on the Automotive side. I knew a Diesel Tech at my Ford dealership getting paid $90 and hour. My Girlfriends Dad, also works for Sunbelt, making much much more than 55k, and it's enough to keep his 200 acre farm, with about 100+ cattle afloat.
Hey Stephen great video! Just wondering if you’ve ever had any experience contracting out these jobs to other people. As someone who’s starting out in the industry I hope that I can start my own contracting business for heavy equipment. Any tips on how to get started?
Also don't forget that working for yourself you have in erased costs like payroll taxes since you pay both sides. Health insurance will cost more since a big employer does not absorb some of the cost. And the big one is that you need to put back money for retirement!!! Most of these guys won't think about that, there just thinking oh man I can make $150k a year or I am making $150k a year and spending it all. Then there 45 years old and realize they have saved nothing.
So i have tried working for myself as a mobile auto mechanic. Problem is no one wants to pay everyone on the street thinks im work for crackhead money $40 to change a radiator. How would i get into working on equipment like your saying?
I read the headline and thought to myself, "Start with $200,000." I mean, the guys that REALLY know what they're doing (like you, Stephen) can do very well at it. But the, "fake it 'til you make it," crowd will have a difficult time getting there. Two very critical things apply and they both have to do with tools. First, you'll find that jobs are MUCH easier when you have the correct tool(s) and MUCH harder without them. Second, despite having the right tools, they're just tools - they can't do the job without a knowledgeable person to wield them properly. Third, I guess - the shiny, top-end tools off the tool trucks are a huge red flag for anyone that knows what they're doing. Yeah, they're nice. But the best tools are often the ones that have survived hundreds or thousands of hours of work already. Don't get me wrong, good mechanics also keep their tools looking good because they know how to take care of their tools, too. This applies not just to mechanics, by the way. IT guys ought to have a bag of tools they've had for a long time and care for, too.
Thank you! Our nation has gotten soft, people are scared to work with their hands. Too many folks with the belief of school = money. Keep doing what you’re doing brother!
Uh... I was one of those persons 25 years ago... I thought all I needed was a college degree to get a middle class lifestyle which I was raised.... Two in fact both in business. I make more money driving my own tractor-trailer combination.
I have a trucking company and mobile repair is worth every penny most shops have will take at least two to four days before they can even get simple repairs done.. my trucks revenue is $1,000 a day 4 days I lose $4,000
Any one in a business should understand what they are worth. You have to remember that you are doing something that they do not know how to do or want to do. Just make sure you cover yourself first.
Currently going through a diesel program and at the end of my military career I’ll be attending a UTI school that the army offers for free. More than likely I’ll be working as a government contractor mechanic when I’m out.
My mentor doubled his prices, which cut his client-numbers in half, his work load in half, his worries in half, his complaints in half, and he still made the same amount of money..... BRILLIANT!
smart man!
That’s actually a very good strategy if you can find those unicorn customers. I have a friend in Tennessee who owns a solar screen business. He only takes on projects from rich clients who pay on time and demand quality work. He leaves the smaller, low-profit jobs to his competitors.
Did the same thing. Went from keeping several crews busy in cutthroat business to changing to small welding and mobile welding repairs with minimum investment less problems. Alot less problems and alot more profitable.
The instant I upped my prices my 50%, I got more work and less hassle
Well, if you can sleep good at night; feeling good about ripping people off, go for it.
When I worked doing Automotive front ends brakes and alignments I made $158,000 a year. There is money to be made turning wrenches. Thank you sir great video can't wait to see the whole video series
The IRS would like to have a little chat with you.
@@picklerix6162 oh no I did not play the IRS game I paid my taxes
@Roger Prodactor no they were mechanic making I want more than me. I had a lot of different customers. I would build specially front ends. Custom brakes fabricate what I need to do
Yessir %100 currently my bread & butter making little over 100k
@@CarlosAguilar-de8rq did you own your own shop? Or as an employee?
When I organized my own on-site repair service truck company I set the price at 140/hour. My business metor, who also happens to be a customer, also advised me NOT to discount travel time -- charge full rate from the moment I turn the key in my driveway until I get back home.
The world will ALWAYs need mechanics and tradesman.
And bakers.
@@grzegorz16100 true
Unfortunately unless mechanics also go get their HEV certs and take Industrial electrical courses they are becoming a thing of the past with these companies making electric vehicles the new norm...
@@lonewolftech mechanics have had to do upgrade courses for all of time. Not to long ago there was a single OBd computer on board and you could check codes by counting flashing sequences. And electric cars still have gearboxes, wheel bearings, breaks, pinions, steering, AC, ect ect. Expecting someone not to have to learn new things isn’t realistic
@@cmcmillan22 I really want to go work at a dealership for a years as I learn to be a pretty proficient mechanic then venture into my own mobile mechanic business. Do you think with ev popularity thst there will still be work for mechanics in 30 years?
Thank you brother, this is helping build my confidence to start my mobile repair business and work for myself. God Bless you sir!
Thank you so much for this video! It is so nice to see how somebody really did it.
Steve I agree 100% with what you’re trying to teach people as these young guys are coming on I own a business as well. I’ve been doing it for over 33 years. And all the points you’re making are absolutely correct. Keep up the good work in the videos.
This my goal work a few years at a dealership then be a mobile mechanic
Thank you for this. Its really eye opening. Im 1 year away from graduating from my tech school with my associates in Automotive and diesel technology and plan on doing this its good to know that its possible
One point that my guess is very important. This applies to any trade! That's right. Any trade. Find a niche and exploit it. Great advice Steve.
Thank you very much for these videos because not only are they instructive they're inspiring
I don't have a college education worked hard for 27-28 years as a mfg rep self employed work on straight commission paid my own traveling expenses furnished my own car and ended up making well into six figures a year for a lot of years retired at the age 47 or 48 started a landscaping company part time it has now grown into a 4 employee company working 12 months a year. LOL so much for it being part time!
I make a lot of hoses in my mechanic job!
If I ever do go on my own, that's the first big tool I'm buying!
Great video! I'm considering this lifestyle myself, and this video really helped me! Thank you sir!
Great video steve. I live in one of those areas where all the cheap people live. I normally try to beat dealer cost and the customers tend to return. But I also have a full time job so customers know I have to work around that. Plus I deal in cash only
Great video. I’m slowly starting at shop at home in Ontario Canada. Been working as a diesel mechanic for the last 18 years. Wanting to just work on cars and pick ups.
Great video. Thank you !
great video man!!!
Nice advice!! Thank you very much for sharing!!!
Good Man love your videos
Another Great informative Video. Thank You :)
I am starting my company now, M BAR H Welding and Mechanical, I am specializing in on road trucks off road equipment and welding repairs.
Very good video! Thanks for the great content
Excellent education. You are a very wise man!
GOOD ADVICE !
This is the most important video I have watched in my life. I plan on doing mobile before I watched this vid but now I am more focused. After working for a year after I finish school I am absolutely starting my own business.
@SC_YoungBoy864✔️ thank you and luck to you as well.
As a retired diesel mechanic forty years ago I was making $18.00 bucks a hour. The problem was the tool cost, I had a friend who was a master electrician worked for the DC subway system made $27.00 bucks a hour and carry his tools in a in a small tool bag!?!?!?
I believe he was the wise than I.
Are not some of the most expensive tools purchased by the shop? Air compressor, scan tool, Etc...
I want to start my own heavy equipment repair Business one day really like Videos like that always learning something 👍 thank you for making them 👍
Go for it
Go Mike Rowe!
Yes, technical jobs are what's most needed.
Really appreciate this info right now
15:25 that guy charging $247,000 an hour better be able to make my truck launch into space 😂
That's really good info
Did you ever make the Playlist you mentioned in this video? I am not seeing it. Thank you so much for making this it is very close to the rates I am charging. It has changed my life big-time working for myself!
This is the kind of motivation that most people need, the risk is what keeps people from doing what they do best.
Good stuff! I like all your vids but I love how you break down business aspect. More people need to feel comfortable with those skills. That’s how we all get better👍
Love the video.. good job
Your example is good, it takes in to account vacation time
Thanks sir, very inspiring.
Steve you are awesome! Great info
Bro I like this guy but I just watched a video he did and in his shop I seen a confederate flag on his wall unless he can explain why the confederate flag I definitely will be Unsubscribing.
Thanks for great motivational video
Im a foreman for a large Concrete Construction Company . And we have three full-time mechanics a lot of times they cannot keep up . So we have to call the dealer to come out and work on the equipment . And they charge a fortune and take forever to show up and fix the problem . I wish we had more small time guys around here like what you're talking about . I have a lot of buddies that own small construction companies and they would definitely hire someone to come out and work on their stuff .
Loved it
Excellent video
This is one on the best career videos I ever watch. I am mechanically inclined person and in recent months, I contemplated going to school to become a mechanic . At the present time I am getting my associate's degree in mathematics. Finishing my mathematics degree is out on the question. Why not complete it if you do well in mathematical subjects, but I realize along with those who know me that I enjoy doing both - being a mechanic and a math guy. 👨🏫
Become and Engineer if you like mechanical and Math! Best of both worlds my friend!
Awesome. Thanks so much for sharing your experience! I've been doing mobile tractor repair for numerous years. I keep raising my rates, but need to do it more. My biggest issues are with cheap people, and why do I want to work for them?.... Makes perfect sense. Time to implement, the strategy. Take the jobs I want. Avoid the cheap clients. 😊
This has to be the best video I have ever seen. Great work Sir!
Seriously few months ago I seen it and it changed my life I was pursuing a career in IT and found out those guys are worked to death also. This video gave me the spark I needed to say hey I can do this I’m already a heavy equipment mechanic
@@youngrevival9715 Got my Mobile truck and trailer repair business going just 2 months ago and I’m better than ever. Like you said life changing
Good video buddy
Make sure to charge out ALL the time you have on a job. Loading your truck, picking up parts, travel time, clean up time, paperwork time. This is all part of the job and should be charged as such.
And everything gets marked up, not just parts. Did you pay overnight freight to get that part the next day? Mark that freight up 30%. Drop a cylinder off at a hydraulic shop to get repaired? Mark the vendor's parts and labor up 30%. Charge a percentage of labor as a "shop supplies" charge, 7-10% will do.
If you work on a jobsite where some special license or training is required (say...OSHA30, MSHA, HAZMAT, etc.), your labor rate increases.
This is very true I make damn good money wrenchin on heavy equipment in the oilfield but it takes up all your life
Love working on car always have I'm a 2nd year apprentice and looking forward to starting my own business think on doing some mobile stuff like batteries and the small stuff this helped alot thanks
As a second year apprentice, how is the work and how is the pay and do u regret anything?
Thanks for the info I work for the city of Houston as a light duty tech and I needed this because I was think of moving to the heavy shop working on vactors and HRTs I do pms in them already.
I'm about to go to uti for D.m could you tell me more about the jobs here in houston?
What's starting rate for a light duty tech?
Awesome video Stephen. I'm a mobile mechanic in Australia and have followed this strategy for several years and is really good advice... we shouldn't feel like we need to do every job, but rather do those jobs that pay well for those customers who are prepared to pay a premium for mobile work which at the end of the day is a lot more convenient for the customer.
Awesome 😎🙏🏻👊
good advice
Please make that series!
Been working on heavy equipment since 1985 and still going, been in DFW area since 2007
Hey I’m planning on going to DFW eventually. Currently I am at a turning point continuing on mobile mechanic for conveyor belts of shipping industry or get into diesel starting for equipment retal and do plan on if diesel going solo also. Is there room for more mobile diesel mechanics in DFW currently and continue to be?
There’s a lot hiring in the area, they can’t find good help, all us older techs are thinning out, I’m still going, not sure how much longer though.. 35yrs of this mess been enough
Do you take apprentices?
Here some more things to consider. It takes time to bill out, pay bills, maintenance, etc. So, being realistic, 20 to 35 hrs a week is actually pretty realistic and still be actually working close to full-time.
This video is encouraging
I had the same experience running my tow trucks.Charging bargain-basement you met horrible people. People that were willing to pay over $120 for a tow were much nicer, The cars were nicer cars also(San Francisco in the 90s) Towing for shops paid about the same as towing for wrecking yard there is no money made their. Shops always want to bargain and then charge the customer a premium price. That made the tow truck company bad
Wish I would have seen this back when I was a mobile myrrh but then again I love being a fire fighter now
One thing you didnt mention that im curious about is insurance? Whats the cost of professional liability insurance working on heavy equipment plus commercials vehicle plates taxes etc?
I really liked this video just have one question, how do you keep clients or recommendations if you’re only available 15-20hours a week? Do you only do emergencies or scheduled jobs. I really hope to hear back because I’ve always wanted to go mobile and work for myself. Thanks in advance buddy!
Ok the money is there for sure. But could you do a video on how getting paid works. Do they pay you monthly. Do they pay you after or before you go out there. Also how do you go about getting parts. Did you pay cash and then charge them or did you have an account soemwhere
same with me. Started my own.
Smart guy
I've been trying to start a mobile repair business for a little while now and this video popped up, all my friends told me I was gonna be charging too much at $75/hr but this changes my mind, I haven't been getting much customers but this video has helped me understand some circumstances better. I look forward to watching more videos. Thanks for the advice!
how have you been doing since then?
@@alez09ish horrible honestly
@@Dieselstuffwithdan god fin b witcha
Shouldn’t be less then what ever the shops charge
I had the same problem. People thought I was going to show up and work for crackhead money.
I REALLY need to bump up my rates.... I've NEVER charged a mark-up on parts (so far) and I've usually charged less than 50% of a labor estimate. Just did a no start diag, on a Ford Freestyle, due to a locked up alternator... New alternator installed for $50. Took me about 3 hours. (Will NEVER quote that one that low again.)
Editing the 2-part steering rack AND intermediate shaft replacement video on '05 ES330 now, that I charged $100 labor and $20 materials. (Good friend and repeat customer)
My only REAL gain at this point is REPUTATION and customer base.
I NEED a garage for anything that can't be EASILY done where the car sits.... THEN... I'll charge more, because I'll be able to get it done faster.
I tell everyone $50 minimum, regardless.
I also get commercial prices and charge retail.
Pay me!
GREAT VIDEO STEPHEN - SHARED !!!!! p.s. I HATE math 🙋🏽♀️.
When you say mobile mechanic, is it just road side repairs? Or are you showing up to work sites, someone’s driveway? Great informative video btw! 👍🏻
I have tools, a 24x48x14 pole barn with a pair of 2 post lifts in the pole barn. I'm a ASE Master Automobile Tech and a state certified master tech. I also have some heavy duty vehicle licenses in my state. I just can't get myself to take the risk. I'm not a people person and I have no experience owning a business. I'd love to make this kind of money while working less but it seems risky for me.
I like this guy
If you snap a bolt on a water pump you could probably still get it to seal by using silicone Forma casket
I hope you never work on any cars of people I care about. Do it right, or don't do it at all.
What about tools you have to buy?
Sourcing parts should be interesting. On cars it's easy, set up a commercial account at one or multiple auto part stores. I still don't understand why some mechanics will call in to get a price, but they're getting the parts at retail. How are those guys making any money?
Hey Mr Cox.. Would it be a great Idea to have some experience as a Field tech before you go out to start your own mobile business?
Im new in this industry
go for commission when it is available lower the pay rate the better make that weekly avarage and get from 30 to 179 a hour from commission in about a month
It cost you for every moment you are open. Just showing up starts the meter. Your automobile or truck costs you every mile. I drive for a living a living and drive a 10 year old Honda. It cost me about 35 cents a mile for insurance, gas, property tax, maintenance, (I do it myself) depreciation before I make a dime.
Stephen, I really admire what your doing brother. I own a mobile mechanic business in Florida. I started my company after leaving a job working on Semi trucks & big diesel stuff. I intended to stay with semi trucks, fleets & big diesel, but I’ve been getting nothing but calls for private vehicles, people complaining about the service call fee for my 16ft box truck/shop on wheels to come to their house while they watch TV & get their cars fixed. Any advise on how I can transition back to the big truck world?? I’m grateful for the revenue I’m producing with cars, but really want to be doing fleet maintenance & truck work. Thanks in advance!
Owner operators are your friends, and small construction companies
what are your other expenses that can't be charged back to the customer? Truck, tools, rent, insurance, etc...? What is the net from the $230k?
I just retired after 30 years of h.d. diesel /emg equip. [gov/federal].. it was my second job "sears was first eww" was on call 24/7 w/ scheduled time off. contract was 35 hr wk. \ @ 91g base for last 15 years 1.5x till 60 hrs then dbl pay its not a cushy job your either dedicated to it or do not bother the pay is great but nothing is given u earn it
So do you charge $100 for every hour you're on the repair or $100 per flat rate hour?
You are talking about gross sales. That's not what you "make". That's just what you bill. What you make is what is left after you pay for tools, parts, service information, insurance, and non billable time (estimating, billing, finding parts, taking phone calls, etc). In my area, if you want to charge $100/hr, plus mileage, and you only do the simple jobs, you will get NO work. The dealers are not even charging $100/hr, they don't charge mileage, and they have the tools and information to fix anything.
Thats incorrect, we use to have dealers service equipment till they just hired a service guy to do it. Let's say a Volvo ec60 mini Excavator, oil change, fuel filters, air filters, hyd filters, 500hr service, we supply filters, they charge 40mi travel round trip, 3hrs on job, and cost of motor oil 3gal 3.5 whatever it is and 1/2gal hyd oil to top off after filter change, its between 8-850 for that little machine! And this is the cheaper company outa say 4, cat, jd, volvo,Kubota
Average rate is 115 to 145 a hour. What part of the country are you in
@@makincash3337 Northeast
@@makincash3337 850-1400$ to do a 500hr service out in the field, we supply the filters. Its expensive. 10+ yrs ago they charged 110$ a hr
@@makincash3337 LOL. More like WHAT country are you in?
Hey Stephen, when you charge customers to drive out to them, do you charge them per mile only one way or there and back? Thanks for the vids, appreciate the info
I charge round trip
I charge $85 but I live in 1 of the lowest household income states in the country, i cannot keep up with the work. All it takes is a lot of knowledge and a lot of tools and you can make all you want.
Matt, are you mobile or do you have a shop?
I have both i cover 6 county's
It's that the point? Charge more and you will make it easier on yourself and your income won't change.
@@chrisE815 the point is I'm small towns with no money people will absolutely not pay ridiculously high repair bills they will skip past you and find someone else
I'm curious , did you go to school for diesel mechanics or did you learn only on the job?
I made just over 90k last year , and I’m 26 years old. I’m a heavy equipment field mechanic
What company do you work for?
@@yodarrr4008 rental company . There’s only a few around , just look up top 3
Such as United Rentals, Sunbelt rentals...? They don’t make over 90k. Just like $55k and do you earn more if you learn and earn ase certifications?
@@yodarrr4008 hey what’s up buddy , here where I’m from all the field guys are making 34$+ , and we all get a easy amount of overtime . We easily push 90k and I know some of the guys with a bit more seniority making high thirtys
@@yodarrr4008 If you're googling that number, it's wrong. That figure includes everyone from the master techs, to the broom pushers, and porters, and averages their pay out to 55k.
It's the same on the Automotive side. I knew a Diesel Tech at my Ford dealership getting paid $90 and hour.
My Girlfriends Dad, also works for Sunbelt, making much much more than 55k, and it's enough to keep his 200 acre farm, with about 100+ cattle afloat.
Hey Stephen great video! Just wondering if you’ve ever had any experience contracting out these jobs to other people. As someone who’s starting out in the industry I hope that I can start my own contracting business for heavy equipment. Any tips on how to get started?
Good luck finding a decent employee who sticks with you and shows up on time.
Also don't forget that working for yourself you have in erased costs like payroll taxes since you pay both sides. Health insurance will cost more since a big employer does not absorb some of the cost. And the big one is that you need to put back money for retirement!!! Most of these guys won't think about that, there just thinking oh man I can make $150k a year or I am making $150k a year and spending it all. Then there 45 years old and realize they have saved nothing.
So i have tried working for myself as a mobile auto mechanic. Problem is no one wants to pay everyone on the street thinks im work for crackhead money $40 to change a radiator. How would i get into working on equipment like your saying?
I read the headline and thought to myself, "Start with $200,000."
I mean, the guys that REALLY know what they're doing (like you, Stephen) can do very well at it. But the, "fake it 'til you make it," crowd will have a difficult time getting there. Two very critical things apply and they both have to do with tools. First, you'll find that jobs are MUCH easier when you have the correct tool(s) and MUCH harder without them. Second, despite having the right tools, they're just tools - they can't do the job without a knowledgeable person to wield them properly.
Third, I guess - the shiny, top-end tools off the tool trucks are a huge red flag for anyone that knows what they're doing. Yeah, they're nice. But the best tools are often the ones that have survived hundreds or thousands of hours of work already. Don't get me wrong, good mechanics also keep their tools looking good because they know how to take care of their tools, too.
This applies not just to mechanics, by the way. IT guys ought to have a bag of tools they've had for a long time and care for, too.
Have you ever heard of heitman truck repair that's where I work. I work on fire trucks and 18 wheelers
What about taxes you have to pay on all your income at the end of the year? Wouldn't you need to basically double that to actually net 100k?
Is insurance for your mobile repair business expensive?
You like a sun in my life😊😍
What hours do they work?
Thank you! Our nation has gotten soft, people are scared to work with their hands. Too many folks with the belief of school = money. Keep doing what you’re doing brother!
Uh... I was one of those persons 25 years ago... I thought all I needed was a college degree to get a middle class lifestyle which I was raised.... Two in fact both in business. I make more money driving my own tractor-trailer combination.
I have a trucking company and mobile repair is worth every penny most shops have will take at least two to four days before they can even get simple repairs done.. my trucks revenue is $1,000 a day 4 days I lose $4,000
I have 6 degrees and work for minimum wage. Degrees don't guarantee better pay they only guarantee more debt and time.
Any one in a business should understand what they are worth. You have to remember that you are doing something that they do not know how to do or want to do. Just make sure you cover yourself first.
Currently going through a diesel program and at the end of my military career I’ll be attending a UTI school that the army offers for free. More than likely I’ll be working as a government contractor mechanic when I’m out.
Look into the Cummins TAP program… I would steer away from the governments contracts. It’s a hit or miss.. overworked for not so great pay..
What was it that you did before making a mechanic where you made a lot of money?