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Locksmith Pricing: Trip Fees and Minimums

Updated October 11, 2026

The three lines that move

Trip / service-call fee ($0-85)

Covers rolling the van. Often waived when the job is accepted — always ask for it to be credited. Above $85 is negotiable on its face.

Minimum charge

Many shops have a 1-hour or flat minimum that exceeds a 20-minute rekey. One cylinder is the worst value in locksmithing; batch work or go DIY for singles.

After-hours and emergency multipliers

Nights, weekends, and lockouts roughly double scheduled rates. If it can wait until morning, it should — an emergency visit costs more than the lock.

Verify before agreeing

Paste the numbers into the quote checker while the tech is still on the phone. Model the DIY alternative with the cost estimator and the DIY time guide — the comparison is the negotiation.