A mobile mechanic quote is built from labour, parts, travel and a minimum call-out. This calculator separates parts markup from labour margin, includes diagnostic time often given away, and charges travel per kilometre. It shows the difference between markup and margin and checks the effective hourly rate before you quote.
Start with labour hours and diagnostic time
Mobile mechanic work is not one fixed task. List each job from diagnosis to repair, assign a labour rate, and multiply hours by that rate. Include diagnostic time as labour, even when not billed separately. Without measured hours, a quote is a guess and diagnostic time silently becomes unpaid work.
Separate parts markup from labour margin
Parts and labour need different decisions. Markup on parts is a percentage added to the cost of components. Labour margin is the percentage of the final labour price that is profit. The calculator keeps these decisions separate so you can see how each affects the total price.
Add travel per kilometre and minimum call-out
Travelling to the customer is a real cost. Charge travel per kilometre so the distance to each job is covered. Then compare the result to your minimum call-out. If the minimum is higher, a small job still pays for the time and fuel spent getting there, not just the repair.
Check the effective hourly rate
Once the total price is set, look at the profit divided by total labour hours. That effective hourly rate shows whether a job is worth the time. If it is too low, adjust the labour rate, parts markup or travel charge. The goal is a price that covers all costs and leaves a margin.
Common questions
How do I cost a mobile mechanic job?
Start with labour hours for diagnosis and repair, multiply by the labour rate, then add parts, travel per kilometre and subcontractor costs. Apply your parts markup and labour margin separately, then compare to the minimum call-out.
Why should diagnostic time be included in a quote?
Diagnostic time is often given away free, but it is skilled labour. Including it as a billable line ensures you are paid for the time spent finding the fault, not just the repair.
What is the difference between parts markup and labour margin?
Parts markup is a percentage added to the cost of components. Labour margin is the percentage of the labour price that is profit. They are separate decisions because parts and labour carry different risks.
How do I charge travel for mobile mechanic jobs?
Charge travel per kilometre to the customer. Set a rate that covers fuel, vehicle wear and the time spent driving so that distance does not reduce your profit on each job.
What does a minimum call-out protect?
A minimum charge covers the fixed cost of getting to the customer and starting work. It prevents a small repair from losing money after travel and setup time.