Let me guess: you've sent out a detailed estimate, priced it fairly, and then... crickets. Or worse, the homeowner goes with someone cheaper who’ll probably butcher the job.

Here’s the hard truth: most tree service owners lose bids before they even quote a number. The problem isn’t just your pricing. It’s how you’re presenting your value, estimating your costs, and positioning yourself against the competition.

Think about it. When you bid on a big removal or a multi-day storm cleanup, are you just listing prices? Or are you showing why you are the right crew for the job?

The tree services that win consistently aren’t the cheapest. They’re the ones who’ve mastered the bidding process. They know their numbers cold, they communicate value clearly, and they make it easy for customers to say yes.

This week, we’re breaking down exactly how to tighten up your bidding game so you stop leaving money on the table and start closing more of the jobs you actually want.

Winning bids isn’t about luck or undercutting everyone else. It’s about having a repeatable system. Here’s what the top-earning tree services do differently:

1. Understand the Job Scope Before You Quote

Don’t rush into numbers.

Is this a hazardous removal near power lines? A routine trim? Emergency storm work? Each job type needs different equipment, crew size, insurance considerations, and timelines.

Walk the property. Ask questions. Take photos. The more detail you gather upfront, the more accurate your bid and the more professional you look.

This is where most tree guys blow it.

You can’t just ballpark labor and materials and hope for the best. Track your actual costs:

Missing one line item can erase your profit.

Keep a simple spreadsheet or use software to nail down your costs on every job type. When you know your numbers, you can bid confidently without second-guessing yourself or cutting your own throat to “win the job.”

Price matters, but so does trust.

Do you carry higher liability limits? Have certified arborists on staff? Specialize in tight backyards and technical rigging? Own your own crane?

Those are reasons you’re worth more than the guy with a pickup and a saw.

Add proof:

Make it stupid-easy for customers to see why you’re the safer, smarter choice.

First impressions count.

A hand-scribbled estimate on the back of a business card doesn’t inspire confidence on a $15K removal.

Use a clean template:

If it helps, add a simple diagram or photo of the tree with notes. A polished proposal tells customers you run a tight operation, not a “two guys and a rope” outfit.

You sent the bid. Now what?

Don’t just sit and wait. Follow up within 24–48 hours.

People hire contractors they trust. A personal follow-up is often the difference between “we went with someone else” and “when can you start?”

Bottom line: bidding isn’t just about offering the lowest price. It’s about proving your value, communicating clearly, and making it easy for customers to choose you. Tighten up these five areas and your close rate will climb.

Tree service owners who apologize for charging what they’re worth drive me nuts.

“Yeah, it’s a bit high, but…”
“I know it’s expensive, but we’re really good…”

Stop. Just stop.

You’re running a business with massive liability, expensive equipment, skilled labor, and real expertise. If a homeowner freaks out at a fair price, that’s not your problem. That’s a sign they’re not your customer.

The right customers don’t just want cheap. They want safe, professional, reliable. They want the job done right the first time. They want someone who’s going to show up, do what they said, and not destroy their lawn in the process.

If you’re losing bids to lowballers who don’t carry insurance or who cut corners, good. Let them have those headaches. You want the customers who value what you bring to the table.

Charge what you’re worth. Present it with confidence. Stop apologizing.

Written by Jacob Hastings
Head of Growth & Client Strategy at Growth Ring Media