No exception taken Gino and I don't mind constructive criticism. It seems as though sometimes (not just with this example) people respond as if you should go back and change the finished product. I have stood back and criticized (second guessed) myself on this job . . . kind of waiting to see if anyone will point out what I question.
No money in the bank yet . . .(7) more to do.
Now there's a move I think you might want to think about for a minute, whether it's present policy or whatever. No one gets vehicles out... without paying for them, be it the local police, fire department or the mayor.
We have some companies we deal with, who will pay in 10 days or less, but no one gets to wait until a whole fleet is finished. Anyone.... and I mean anyone doing a fleet will pay a deposit of 50% up front and as each vehicle is serviced, it is billed and payment is due. Whether you give them 10 days, 30 days..... but not until the job is finished.
If this is your business method of operating, so be it, but it is rather foolish to wait on something that could potentially go on for a long time. Inclement weather, sickness, too busy and the list can go on. Just too many factors to get in the way.
We just did 5 trucks for a customer on Monday and they finished picking them up Tuesday. They have 10 day terms with us, have been a longtime faithful customer and we'll have that check by the middle of next week. The tab is only $2,275, but I know I'll have it next week. We're doing a store remodeling yesterday, today and tomorrow. We got 1/2 up front last week and we'll put the bill in tomorrow and we'll have our check Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday morning. That one is around $10,000. Nothing for them to pay immediately, but we show incentive, by giving them a choice and they always choose to take the least expensive way. with a municipality, regardless of their payment schedule, they must act on discount terms. I think it's the law. Therefore any police or municipal work we do, we get paid right away. The Fire Departments are different, but we have an understanding there, too.
This is not a tongue lashing or a belittling, but something for you to think about
and others which might be conducting business the same way. No one can re-set the rules after you make them your policy. Should you choose to ignore your own policies to get more business, then you might hafta forego certain things, but stand your ground if your work can withstand it, too.