@maryanncostello wrote:
Hi Shoptastic-
I can only add- other variable costs like printing and computer or smartphone expenses.
MAC,
I forgot to add that you may want to look into routing strategy. I see from your name that you are 6 months "old" on the forum and if you're new in the industry, I think searching (or, asking a Q in the "New Shoppers" section) for routing discussion could be very helpful to you.
Aside from mileage, routing was the biggest thing I learned that improved my profits as a newbie.
I didn't mind, looking back, losing money on some shops early on from lack of education about mileage. I wouldn't have felt comfortable doing more than one shop a day. I was scared to do these and always felt I could mess up or be outed. I saw those money losing shops early on as just getting experience. Actually, some were break even. But, I probably lost money for a month or two more than needed - due to ignorance - as I got enough experience after month three of four.
Once I understood mileage and routing - and was experienced enough to do several shops a day - then I started putting together profitable routes.
Again, if you're new, you may want to research this or ask about it. GOOD LUCK. Don't be afraid to ask "dumb" questions, as everyone who first starts is often confused by this industry. It's definitely not like other fields.
It's mostly "side gig" money, but few a select few can be an actual main income.