Workshop Consumables -Fair or Money grab?
What Are Workshop Consumables?
Workshop consumables are the everyday materials a mechanic uses during the repair or service of your vehicle that cannot be reused and aren’t practical to itemise individually.
We’re talking about things like:
• Brake cleaner
• Penetrating oils
• Degreasers
• Rags & paper towel
• Masking tape
• Solvents
• Grease
• Thread locker
• Corrosion sprays
• Sealants & adhesives
• Lubricants
• Gloves
• Shop wipes
• Cleaning fluids
Most of these products are used in tiny amounts across multiple jobs. But they are used on every job.
And none of them are free.
So Why Not List Each Item?
Because your invoice would be four pages long… and you’d pay more.
If every spray, wipe, glove, and dollop of grease was individually charged, not only would it take longer to calculate, it would also cost you more in labour time.
A consumables charge simplifies that process.
It’s a flat, controlled figure designed to:
• fairly cover usage
• avoid inflated labour
• reduce admin time
• keep billing consistent
It’s actually cheaper this way.
What Do We Charge , And Why?
At Hassard Industries, we charge a flat $18 consumables fee per job.
Not per hour.
Not per product.
Not per “grab off the shelf.”
Just one simple, transparent charge.
That $18 contributes toward:
• Oils, cleaners, sprays and solvents
• Greases and lubricants
• Rags, gloves, and wipes
• Sealants, thread lock, and adhesives
• The equipment needed to apply and clean everything properly
Could we itemise all that?
Yes.
Would it cost you more?
Also yes.
The $18 fee keeps your bill simple, fair, and predictable, while still covering the real costs we incur during your job.
When a Consumables Fee Isn’t Fair
Here’s the honest part.
A consumables charge is only reasonable when it’s:
• Proportional
• Transparent
• Consistent
• Relevant to the job
If you’re being charged a big consumables fee for a tiny job — that’s worth questioning.
If nobody can explain what you’re being charged for — that’s a problem.
If the number wildly changes every visit — ask why.
Any reputable workshop should be able to explain its consumables policy clearly.
The Bottom Line
The best workshops:
✅ explain their charges
✅ don’t hide behind vague terms
✅ keep fees reasonable
✅ answer questions without getting defensive
Good mechanics don’t need to fudge invoices.
They charge fairly.
They explain clearly.
And they stand by their numbers.
