Why wait time fees matter
Pet transport jobs often include more than driving. You may be waiting at a vet, groomer, boarding facility, airport, or client's home.
If that time is not priced, your day can fill with unpaid delays.
Where delays happen
- Vet appointments running late
- Grooming appointments not finished on time
- Clients not ready at pickup
- Boarding facility check-in delays
- Airport cargo or passenger delays
- Return handoffs where no one is available
How to set the rule
Define a small included wait window, then charge in clear increments after that. For example, a job might include 10 or 15 minutes of wait time, then charge per additional 15 minutes.
The exact amount depends on your market, but the rule should be simple enough for clients to understand before booking.
How to explain it
Use calm, practical language: "Each booking includes a short handoff window. Additional wait time is billed because it affects scheduling for the rest of the day."
Most clients understand this when you explain it before the job.
What to track
Track scheduled time, arrival time, delay reason, when the wait started, and when the job resumed. Documentation keeps the fee from feeling random.
Clear notes also help you identify which services need different pricing.