I'm a firm believer that it is not a very smart business decision (not for me anyway) to allow the customer to know what wholesale cost is on parts. Same as in the food business (my other "hobby"). Most folks can't fathom the reasoning behind charging them $20 for a steak that cost me $5 to purchase. Imagine if restaurants listed their costs on the menu right beside the menu price.

This is just my thinking, but my costs are also MY business and my business only.

Doug asked me to post his invoice form Here is page 1 [www.rodbuilding.org] Here is page 2 [www.rodbuilding.org]

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Jay,
Right on.
Roger

What else does one buy where they list all the costs of components (parts)? I see eno benefit to either the buyer or seller! Of course the seller should keep track of all his costs for the build, other wise setting a selling price is a "shot in the dark".

I utilize two forms: 1.) Rod Specification Form, wherein I list all components and custom work, one copy for the client (without $), a second copy I keep with all the components costs listed. 2.) Invoice, where I describe the custom rod such as this = 9ft 5wt 4pc Custom Fly Rod built on a Rainshadow RX8 blank, with custom grip and reel seat. I do list rod bags and tubes separately/

Unless there is more for others to say on this topic I would like to thank those with more business dealings than I have, in terms of volume, for their input. It has got me thinking and hopefully learning as I go along. I am always willing to look at something from another angle and do it better if I can. This is good information for me as I am on an exit plan from my second career/job and would like to promote my business near where I live. I don't do that right now as I build enough from past customers and people they have refereed to me until I can be at home more. I work out of state three weeks at a time. I would welcome any input from those of you who might be willing or want to respond or correspond with my by email. I don't view the comments as negative but rather more information and food for thought.

Doug Webb

My email is not "hidden" here. You are welcome to contact me any time you wish