Networks

[gbj]

Is there anyone out there making a living doing wsr and not using the networks like Lynx, safelite etc....? If so, how are you doing it?

[GLASSTIME]

gbj,

If you try and do this on your own....Goodluck and be sure to get a bottle of anti-gepressants to make it through.
Several others have trie this too and somewhat failed. I think you wold have a better chance at just having the customer pay you for
the repair and then letting them submit the invoice to their insurance themselves!

THis way your getting paid immediately, Your not dealing with the networks and your not having to spend the time to submit invoices.
You still are going to be able to repair for FRE to those who want it. Basically in the long run it is FREE as their insurance company reimburst the client!

[APWR1]

Just got back in glass business after 11 years in another field. I will be repair only now.I got my GL insurance and`re-certified my NGA.Sent all applications to SGC,Lynx & Gerber networks.How long do they usually take to get you online?How much work should I expect from their direct referrals?

[chipfixman]

I have heard quite a bit of talk about services for insurance processing. One that I am looking into is quick fixx due to others who have referred them. But, from what I have heard, it is a must to do insurance work. However, it sounds like safelite is taking over the industry and does a lot of steering and keeps all the referrals for themselves. It is good to see other networks trying to compete.

[chipfixman]

A small amount from Gerber. Nothing from Safelite and nothing from Lynx. That is just what I have found

[DryStar]

Just got back in glass business after 11 years in another field. I will be repair only now.I got my GL insurance and`re-certified my NGA.Sent all applications to SGC,Lynx & Gerber networks.How long do they usually take to get you online?How much work should I expect from their direct referrals?

When I first registered with the networks, if I remember correctly it only took 3-7 days. Not sure if that's the norm now because I've heard of others being told they already had too many operating in same service area. As far as expecting direct referrals, that will also depend on your service area concentration. If you service a rural area, you might get quite a few. However, if you service a large metro area you may not get any.(i.e., I have a large Safelite hub 4 miles from me and will never get one less than forty miles away.(the ones not profitable for them to service) Gerber handles mostly large fleet corporate lease accounts. You might try locating some of these lease return centers in your area and introducing yourself. HTH

[ChampionCHIP,wsr]

i am thinking a bit diff. i get an average of 65-90 insurence jobs a month, and i was thinking it is because i am in a very populated state nj. saying saflite is taking over is not true, they absolutly handle 99% of calls to their call center probly, but lynx, harmon,etc are not and do not want to dispatch anything to them. i get no calls from them unless a custumer request me they give me no problems at all like i have read here in the past, again it is probly the population.
i think it is essential for new techs to get involved in networks, it gets you out there while you are establishing a route of somekind.
paul

[DryStar]

i am thinking a bit diff. i get an average of 65-90 insurence jobs a month, and i was thinking it is because i am in a very populated state nj. saying saflite is taking over is not true, they absolutly handle 99% of calls to their call center probly, but lynx, harmon,etc are not and do not want to dispatch anything to them. i get no calls from them unless a custumer request me they give me no problems at all like i have read here in the past, again it is probly the population.
i think it is essential for new techs to get involved in networks, it gets you out there while you are establishing a route of somekind.
paul

Paul, I agree with you in part but it really varies from one state to another or from one state area to another. For example...the state I'm in is insurance heavy with AAA, State Farm and Allstate. Prior to AAA being moved from Harmon network to SGC...I was averaging 5-7 referrals daily. Prior to Lynx accepting customized offers for State Farm and Allstate I was getting another 8-10 weekly. Can't compete with in-shop repairs as low as $19.95 operating as a mobile service.

In my area (metro) those "good ole days" of insurance referrals have dried up 5 years ago. I'm happy to hear your doing well in New Jersey!

[APWR1]

When I applied to Lynx the State Farm app was immediatly denied and `said re apply 5/15/11.Still waiting for`Allstate & Lynx approval.I am near Crystal River,Fl .Closest Safelite is 50 miles so I am hoping for SGN referrals.