How Did You Price Your Services When You Were in the Cabinet Installation Business?

Short Answer: I priced each cabinet and every filler individually based on a detailed kitchen build plan, ensuring value is delivered without leaving money on the table. The final price is set after calculating costs for every component, with adjustments made only for change orders.

Full Explanation

In cabinet installation, pricing services accurately involves a detailed understanding of every element in the kitchen layout. The key is to price each individual item, such as every cabinet and every filler, instead of offering a broad estimate. This approach ensures that all the work done is accounted for financially, providing value for the customer while avoiding leaving extra money unclaimed.

The designer typically provides an exact, detailed kitchen build plan. This plan reveals every scribe, filler, and cabinet that needs installation. Having this complete plan upfront is crucial because it serves as the basis for calculating the total cost before starting the project.

Once you have the full layout and specifications, you sit down to calculate the cost of each piece, arriving at an end price that is firm and clear. This price doesn’t change unless there’s a change order—meaning the client makes adjustments or additions after the initial plan. This approach eliminates any guesswork or back-and-forth on pricing.

When you show up on site, the goal is to deliver a top-notch installation where every line is perfect, and the job is completed efficiently. This method resulted in clear, transparent pricing and quick, quality work.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Receive the detailed kitchen build plan: Make sure the designer’s plan specifies every scribe, filler, and cabinet.
2. Calculate the cost of each cabinet and filler: Work out the pricing based on the exact components to be installed.
3. Sum the total cost for the whole project: This becomes your firm price if no changes occur.
4. Adjust if necessary: Only if there is a change order that modifies the initial plan should the price change.
5. Deliver quality work efficiently: Install precisely according to the plan and complete the job professionally and quickly.

Real Examples

For instance, if a kitchen layout includes 10 cabinets and 5 fillers, I would price each of these 15 items separately based on the materials, installation complexity, and time required. If the client later decides to add an extra cabinet or change the dimensions of a filler, I would issue a change order to update the pricing accordingly. This transparency prevents misunderstandings and makes the process smooth for both parties.

Common Mistakes

• Failing to get a detailed kitchen build plan before pricing can lead to overlooked components and lost revenue.
• Offering a vague or lump-sum price without breaking down items leaves money on the table and creates pricing ambiguity.
• Not adjusting for change orders can cause disputes or financial loss.
• Rushing the calculation process may result in inaccurate pricing that does not reflect the true scope of work.

FAQs

Q: Why price each cabinet and filler separately?
Pricing each item individually ensures that every part of the job is accounted for, offering clear value and preventing underpricing.

Q: What if the client changes their mind after pricing?
Change orders allow you to update the price based on new work or adjustments after the initial plan.

Q: How do you ensure quality with this pricing model?
The detailed plan and firm pricing set clear expectations, allowing you to deliver efficient and precise installation without surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Accurate pricing in cabinet installation relies on a thorough, detailed kitchen build plan.
• Price every cabinet and filler individually to ensure full coverage and clear value.
• Set a firm end price based on calculated costs, adjusting only for change orders.
• Deliver high-quality installation quickly and precisely according to the plan.