Invoice templates for panel beaters and vehicle body repair specialists billing insurers and customers for accident and bodywork repair.
A panel beater invoice is issued by a vehicle bodywork repair specialist to an insurance company, fleet operator, or private vehicle owner for the repair of accident damage, dents, scratches, and structural bodywork. Panel beating involves reshaping damaged metal panels, replacing panels that cannot be repaired, applying filler, and refinishing with paint to restore the vehicle's appearance. Most vehicle body repair work in the UK is insurance-funded, with the panel beater working through an insurer's approved repairer network or directly with the customer. Work is typically quoted using recognised estimating systems such as Audatex or GT Motive, which calculate standard repair times and parts prices. Accredited body shops may hold BSI Kitemark certification (BS 10125 for post-collision vehicle repair) or manufacturer approvals (BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, etc.) which are increasingly required by insurers and manufacturers. These accreditations affect the rates and standards expected.
| Service | Typical Rate | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Body repair labour (per hour) | 60 | hour |
| Paint materials (per repair hour) | 28 | hour |
| OEM replacement panel (example door skin) | 320 | panel |
| Alloy wheel refurbishment | 85 | wheel |
| Smart repair (minor dent/scratch) | 150 | repair |
| ADAS calibration (post-repair) | 300 | calibration |
For insurance work, the invoice must match the authorised estimate from the insurer or assessor. Any supplements (additional work discovered during repair) must be pre-authorised by the insurer before the invoice is issued. For private-pay repairs, provide a written estimate before beginning work. Consumer protection law requires garages to inform customers of cost overruns before proceeding. Use standard repair time calculations (Audatex or GT Motive) where possible to support your pricing. ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) calibration is a growing and mandatory part of vehicle repair. Many vehicles require static or dynamic ADAS calibration after any work that moves a sensor (windscreens, front panels, bumpers). Always charge for this separately and use calibration data as proof of completion. For fleet operators and lease companies, establish a standing account and invoice monthly for all repairs completed in the month. Fleet invoices typically require vehicle registration, mileage at repair, and fleet reference number.