Chasing payments on landscaping jobs is killing my cash flow

Man, I just wrapped up a big mulching job last week, spread 20 yards of that dark hardwood from the local yard, and the client is dragging their feet on the invoice. I've been using Jobber to send reminders, but it's like pulling teeth to get them to pay up on time. Sent the first invoice right after cleanup, followed up a week later, and still nothing. It's frustrating when you're out there busting your ass with the Stihl blower and trimmer, only to play bill collector. Saw a similar rant in the Lawn Care Business Owners Facebook group, everyone saying the same crap. Anyone got tips on collections without burning bridges? I've even offered a 2% discount for prompt payment, but no dice. NGL, it's making me rethink taking on more residential contracts.

Set up automatic payments through Stripe in Jobber, cuts the BS and gets you paid faster.

Screw discounts, just slap a late fee on there after 15 days, clients respect boundaries more that way.

Haha, last guy I chased owed for a whole sod install, ended up paying with a check from his dog's mouth.

Try calling them during dinner time, works like a charm every time.

I'm with you, same issue on my last retaining wall build.

Collections suck, but document everything in the contract from day one.

These cheapskates think we're hobbyists, not pros paying for fuel and gear.

Damn right, fuel prices are nuts and they're out here playing games.

Had a client ghost me after a full yard redesign, took small claims to get my money.

How do you structure your payment schedules? Like 50% upfront?

This is why I hate invoicing, feels like a second job.

Insurance companies are worse, but yeah, clients too.