What is a key factor when establishing a collision repair estimate?

When establishing a collision repair estimate, the cost of parts and labor is a fundamental component. This is because accurate pricing relies heavily on the specific parts that need to be replaced or repaired after a collision, as well as the labor required to complete the necessary tasks. Estimators must consider both the markup on parts and the hourly wage of the technicians who will be performing the work. This makes it essential to have precise knowledge of local parts pricing and labor rates to provide a reliable estimate.

While factors such as the reputation of the repair shop, estimated time for completion, and the number of technicians available can influence a customer's choice and the overall workflow of the repair process, they do not directly affect the core monetary evaluation involved in estimating the cost of repairs. Therefore, the cost of parts and labor stands out as the key factor because it directly influences the financial aspect of the repair estimate.