Once you've submitted a few quotes and reviewed competitor bids, you’ll notice that pricing can vary widely for similar transports. The goal is to find the “sweet spot” — a quote that’s fair for the customer, covers your expenses, and ensures you’re paid well for your time.

In this lesson, you’ll learn:
     

• Step #1: How to price your quotes accurately
• Step #2: Pro tips for smart and competitive pricing
  

Step 1: How to price your quotes accurately

Quoting too low or too high rarely leads to success — and often results in a poor experience for both you and the customer. When pricing isn’t aligned with actual costs and value, communication can break down, customer satisfaction suffers, and no one walks away happy — which isn’t how you build a lasting business.

To develop a quote that’s fair, accurate, and profitable, start by asking yourself these key questions:

• Fuel Costs:

Estimate total fuel consumption, including both pick-up and drop-off legs.

Example: If your route covers 800 miles and your vehicle averages 20 mpg at $3.50 per gallon, you’ll spend roughly $140 on fuel.

• Shipment Size and Weight:

Heavier or bulkier shipments consume more fuel and may limit your ability to carry other items.

Example: A 120 lb dog crate will impact fuel use more than a small cat carrier, so factor that into your price.

• Loading and Unloading Time:

Account for extra time needed to safely load or unload animals or large items.

Example: Picking up from an apartment complex with limited parking may add 30 minutes to your route.

• Additional Labor:

If the shipment requires assistance, include that cost in your quote.

Example: Hiring a helper to lift a large kennel or assist with multiple animals might cost an extra $50–$100.

• Special Equipment or Supplies:

Some transports may require special crates, harnesses, or cleaning supplies.

Example: If the shipper requests a temperature-controlled crate or puppy pads for a long-distance pet trip, include those costs upfront.

• Travel Expenses:

Consider tolls, parking fees, and overnight accommodations.

Example: A long-haul route with $20 in tolls and a $90 hotel stay adds $110 to your total costs.

• Wear and Tear:

Set aside a small amount per mile to cover maintenance and insurance.

Example: Adding $0.10–$0.15 per mile helps offset future expenses like oil changes, tire replacements, and insurance premiums.

• Your Time and Labor:

Include driving, loading, and communication in your rate. Most drivers earn $0.55–$0.65 per mile.

Example: A 720-mile trip at $0.55/mile = $396, keeping you competitive while covering your time and effort.

By evaluating each of these elements, you’ll be able to set a quote that not only appeals to the customer but also sustains your business for the long term.

Helpful Hint 💡

Think about how many pets you can transport at once. Many successful drivers boost their income by combining multiple shipments in a single trip — a strategy known as “stacking.” If this approach interests you, check out our Shipment Stacking Tool to learn how to maximize your earnings per mile.

The Low Quote Exception 🚀

When you’re new to CitizenShipper and have little to no feedback, you may need to start with slightly lower quotes to secure your first few shipments. Once you’ve built up positive reviews highlighting your reliability and professionalism, you can begin raising your rates gradually.

💡 Pro Tip: Consider covering your background check fee (Checkr) in your first bid. While it’s optional, completing your verification early helps establish trust and improves your chances of being booked.

Step 2: Pro tips for smart and competitive pricing

1️⃣ Bid First, Then Message

Place your bid before reaching out — this shows initiative and allows the customer to see your offer right away. Once you’ve submitted your quote, follow up with a friendly, professional message to introduce yourself and highlight why you’re a trustworthy choice.

🗣️ Most new drivers report success when they:

• Bid confidently — aim for a mid-range price that’s fair, not the lowest or the highest.
  
  
• Message promptly after bidding to show professionalism and genuine interest. You can send a customised message or just by clicking the intro button
  
  
• Emphasize reliability and care — reassure the customer their pet or shipment will be handled safely and personally.
  
  

This simple “bid first, then message” approach helps you stand out, builds trust, and often wins the shipment even if your quote isn’t the cheapest.

2️⃣ Create an “Exciting” Offer — Not Just a Cheap One

Winning shipments isn’t always about being the lowest bidder. Instead, make your offer feel special and time-sensitive.

Example:
You plan to quote $500. Instead, message the customer first saying you can do it for $550. If they don’t respond, follow up 30 minutes later with:

“Good news! I just adjusted my schedule and can offer a limited-time discount — $489 if you book within 30 minutes! I only have one spot left on this route!”

Then submit your official bid at $489.

Why this works?

• 💰 Perceived Savings: You “discounted” from $550 → $489 (customer feels they’re saving $61, even though you only dropped $11 from your target).
  
  
• ⏰ Urgency: “Book in the next 30 minutes” triggers immediate action.
  
  
• 🔥 Scarcity: “One spot left” creates a fear of missing out.
  
  
• 🧮 Charm Pricing: Ending in 9 makes the price feel like a deal — $489 sounds much cheaper than $500.
  
  

Combine these tactics with genuine, professional communication, and you’ll start winning shipments quickly and profitably.

Still have questions about how to price your shipments? Let us know how we may help you in the comments below.

As per popular demand, we have included various examples of winning bids below - both high and low, to illustrate just how all the variables above can affect the pricing:

Powered by CitizenShipper - Premier Pet Shipping Platform