1. What every tree service / arborist invoice must include

A compliant tree service / arborist invoice has eight parts: your business name and contact info, a unique invoice number, issue date, payment due date, the customer's name and address, an itemized list of work, the total amount due, and accepted payment methods. If you're collecting sales tax, that line is required too.

2. Set your line items

Most tree service / arborists structure invoices around these 4 categories:

Tree removal — billed by flat.
Stump grinding — billed by flat.
Trimming labor — billed by hour at a ~$95 default.
Cleanup & haul-away — billed by flat.

3. Set payment terms

The standard for tree service / arborists is Net 7 — payment due within 7 days of the invoice date. Most tree service / arborists also require a 25% deposit upfront before starting work. Spell out late-fee terms (most states cap monthly late fees around 1.5%) and accepted payment methods on the invoice itself.

4. Licensing & legal disclosures

ISA Certified Arborist credential strongly preferred. State contractor license for jobs over a threshold; specialized insurance required.

5. Send and follow up

Send the invoice the same day work is completed (or upon milestone for larger projects). Use software that tracks opens and lets the customer pay by card or bank transfer in one click — the average tree service / arborist-class invoice gets paid 2× faster when the customer can pay online without leaving their inbox.

Average invoice

$950

Standard terms

Net 7

Typical deposit

25%

BLS code

37-3013

State-by-state tree service / arborist invoicing guides

State rules differ on sales tax, statutory late fees, and contractor disclosure requirements. Pick your state for a guide tuned to local law.

How to Invoice as a Tree Service / Arborist: Step-by-Step Guide