Stump removal estimates are usually given before the visit from photos or on site, and customers often get two or three quotes to compare. They look at the total price, whether cleanup is included, and how deep the stump will be ground. Because many homeowners want a price quickly, a clear per-stump or per-inch quote with included and excluded items wins work and prevents later arguments.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Price depends on size. Listing each stump and its measurement fixes the scope and lets you adjust if the customer adds another stump on the day.
State how many inches below grade you will grind. Customers planting grass, a tree, or building over the area may need a different depth.
Surface roots can double the work on a large tree. Say whether you are grinding only the stump or also the main roots, and the extra rate for roots.
Specify whether chips stay in the hole, get spread, are piled, or get hauled away. This is the most common source of cleanup complaints.
Say whether you will backfill, add topsoil, or seed. If not, state that the customer is responsible for finishing the area.
Gates under a certain width, steep slopes, or soft ground can require smaller equipment or extra time. Note any assumptions about access and what happens if conditions differ.
State that the customer should mark sprinklers and private lines, that 811 will mark public utilities, and that you are not liable for unmarked lines or hidden objects like rocks and metal.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Stump grinding, standard residential | per inch of diameter | $3-8 |
| Minimum service charge | per visit | $100-200 |
| Large stump (30 inches or more) or heavy surface roots | per stump | $250-600 |
| Extra depth or surface root grinding | per hour | $75-150 |
| Wood chip haul-away | per load | $50-150 |
| Backfill with topsoil and grade | per stump | $25-75 |
| Hourly rate for multi-stump or clearing work (operator and machine) | per hour | $100-200 |
| Trip or travel fee outside service area | flat fee | $25-75 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
A photo with a tape measure or a reference object gives a workable estimate. Make the quote conditional on the stump matching what you saw, and confirm measurements when you arrive.
When a property has several stumps, give a total price for all of them rather than separate quotes. It makes the job easier to say yes to and lets you schedule one trip.
Stumps in backyards behind narrow gates, on slopes, or surrounded by fencing and landscaping take longer. Build that into the quote rather than adding charges afterward.
Fuel, labor, and demand change. Quotes valid for 14 to 30 days protect you from being held to an old price.
Most stump removal businesses give free estimates for residential jobs, often by photo or phone. For large clearing projects or remote sites, some charge a trip fee that is credited if the customer books the job.
Fourteen to thirty days is common. State the expiration date on the quote so a price from months ago does not come back to you.
Include a line in the quote that the price is based on the measurements and conditions described, and that changes like extra roots, rocks, or additional stumps will be billed at the stated rates. Tell the customer before doing the extra work.
A written acceptance, even by email or text reply, is a good idea. It confirms the scope, price, and grinding depth, and gives you something to point to if there is a disagreement.
Use the Stump Removal invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Stump Removal invoice template