Dock installation business?

Question

I am 17 years old and dont really like working for people and already have a upright bass string business. I am just wondering for all you lake home owners, how much would you be willing to pay a couple of guys to put your docks in the water in the spring and pull them out in the fall?

I was thinking like $10 a dock/boat lift.

Answer 1

The dock boys here in Minnesota charge anywhere from $75 to $100 per lift, and about $40 per dock section.

Please, do some research regarding what others are charging in your area, and be competitive.

Also, get a crew, three guys minimum. When three guys learn the system you can cruise docks and lifts and make a nice hourly wage.

Answer 2

$10 per dock wouldn't pay for your transportation to and from the job site, or your insurance, or your business license let alone a reasonable wage for your labor.  You need to spend some time looking at what it actually costs to operate a small business in the real world...