Collision Damage Appraisal 

When it comes to modern vehicle collision repairs, the first thing I think we need to agree on is we can no longer provide just an estimate, which is to say the process of providing a rough outline of anticipated costs is obsolete. We need to change the conversation and provide a Collision Damage Appraisal that documents all the required operations.

Building the roadmap

Damage Appraisers today face a complex balancing act. OEM repair procedures demand thorough research, documentation and comprehension, while time constraints and service level agreements create pressure to expedite estimates. Add insurer guidelines and validating parts availability challenges, and appraisers must constantly weigh accuracy against efficiency. 

What if you can slow the process down at the time of appraisal to speed up the repair?

Begin with the end in mind 

When it comes to Disassembly for the Estimate (DFE) or Advanced Repair Plan (ARP), whatever terminology you use is not as important as the function. Here are some key things to consider:

• Dedicate a Space – I often hear “We don’t have the room for that” all while standing in between cars that are waiting for parts. Re-Prioritize the square footage to a clean and efficient area for partial disassembly.
• People – Change can be challenging. Dedicating time to R&I parts for a fast and more efficient future repair can be a difficult vision to relay. This is where your Touch Time Metric can prove-out the need to change and the success when you get there.
• Parts – If there is one catalyst to drive a DFE Process, this is it. Supply chain challenges continue to contribute to delays in the repair process. Every tool that you can use to help mitigate that will have a direct impact on your throughput. DFE combined with Parts Supplier websites and inventory verification is critical.
• Customers – Prepare your customers for this process. Being thorough and explaining the need to perform a Disassembly for Estimate can build a much better relationship with your client.

Excellence in Estimating isn’t just about documentation. It’s about creating a foundation for success. By embracing thorough research, leveraging modern tools and maintaining clear communication, Damage Appraisers can transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring every repair journey begins with the end in mind.