Re: Building Travel $ Into Rate??

[Lori Lathrop <76620 -dot- 456 -at- COMPUSERVE -dot- COM>]

Thomas -- Rather than trying to build travel expenses into the rate you
charge your clients, I'd suggest that you request that the client
reimburse you for all travel expenses incurred during the course of the
contract.

Travel costs vary dramatically, depending upon the carrier, how far in
advance you make your reservations, days of the week, etc.  Clients always
appreciate it when you make an effort to keep your travel costs reasonable
by making reservations as far in advance as possible, taking "red eye"
flights, or even staying over a Saturday night to get a reduced rate.
Also, if you or the client can get discount rates at certain hotels, take
advantage of the discounts.

Coming up with a formula to build travel expenses into your rate would be
difficult, at best, and there's a strong possibility that your estimate
would either be too high (in which case, the client is paying more than
they should) or too low (in which case, you're cutting yourself short).
Requesting reimbursement for real and actual expenses is the most
professional approach and, chances are, your client will appreciate your
conscientiousness and will continue to request your services on other
projects.

Good luck with your project ....

Lori Lathrop ----------> INTERNET:76620 -dot- 456 -at- compuserve -dot- com
Lathrop Media Services, P.O. Box 808, Georgetown, CO  80444