Numbers: Number of Bays
Number of Bays
From workflow to safety to staffing, the number of bays in your shop play an important role. With so many variables relying on them, it’s important to know how many are needed to maximize revenue. While there is no right or wrong answer, consider that there is a sweet spot between maximizing floor space and revenue while balancing productivity and workflow. The 2025 Ratchet+Wrench Industry Survey Report shares the number of bays respondents are working with to ensure efficiency and profitability.
Number of Bays
|
0-2 |
13% |
|
3-4 |
20% |
|
5-6 |
28% |
|
7-8 |
19% |
|
9 or more |
20% |
Meanwhile, additional research shows that labor rates have increased from 2023 to 2025 with the most noticeable increase being in shops with more than eight bays for an hourly rate of $152. 65 on average, up from $102.63 for the same size shop in 2023. Here’s a closer look at the labor rates according to the number of bays per shop by year:
Average Labor Rates Vs. Number of Bays
|
Number of Bays |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|
1-3 |
$105.81 |
$106.19 |
$109.82 |
|
4-7 |
$101.47 |
$106.32 |
$134.48 |
|
8+ |
$102.63 |
$122.72 |
$152.65 |