The client who wanted a 40% discount because I have a truck
Had a homeowner in Athens, GA try to haggle me down to 60% of my quote for removing three dead oaks. Said since I already own the equipment, the job should be cheaper, like the saw and chipper magically run on good vibes. I walked him through the fuel, insurance, and the fact that I bring a crew of two, and he just kept repeating 'you got the truck though.' I finally told him he could rent a U-Haul and do it himself, and he got real quiet real fast. Anyone else get hit with the 'you already have the gear so it costs you nothing' logic?
Next he'll want free work because you breathe air. Might as well ask for a discount because the trees are already dead. That truck paid for itself with jobs like this one. People see a work vehicle and think it's a money printer, not a giant bill on wheels. Good on you for calling his bluff. Some folks need a reality check with their own rental counter.