5 Things DJ’s Overcharge For

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5 Things DJ’s Overcharge For

  • Backup equipment
    • This is a biggie. Many high-end production companies will bring extra vans of backup equipment for large galas, but this isn’t a given with your normal mobile DJ. Some DJ’s really like to push this, and usually at really high cost. What’s tough is that sometimes this can be a justified expense, but nearly always clients pay a lot for nothing. Any truly professional DJ knows their equipment well, knows what it can handle, and is using it every week so it’s constantly being tested. If you’re going with a rookie, it might be actually worth having them bring extra equipment since they’re most likely to be using rookie-grade equipment.

Rest assured, Disc Jockey Boston has your back if you’d like backup equipment; just ask!

  • Setup time
    • Charging for setup time makes sense…sometimes. If your DJ needs to set up far in advance of starting or your event requires an extensive setup, that’s about the only time it’s an allowable charge. Industry standard is to charge either for performance time or a flat gig rate. If your DJ presents a bill with setup time, definitely inquire about that charge.
  • Assistant
    • Assistants can be great, but usually they’re unnecessary. Extra help can be nice for your DJ with moving equipment and making announcements, but most DJ’s should be able to do all of that by themselves. All that said, mitzvahs and weddings tend to be best types of events to hire an assistant for, as they tend to have the most moving parts. If your DJ is offering an assistant, it could be a good thing, but make sure you need one before signing the contract.
  • Meetings
    • This is a touchy subject among DJ’s. Typically, everything can be worked out in one meeting, but sometimes when planning a large event, it’s necessary to hold several meetings in person. Meeting fees makes this list because even though charging for excessive meetings makes sense, it’s nearly always an unnecessary expense that can be resolved just as easily with a quick call or email.
  • Special songs
    • Some DJs like to bill for everything! At Disc Jockey Boston, we like to keep charging as a last resort. Many events call for customized songs and cueing. At some vendors, this is one of those pesky add-on costs that can run up the bill. At Disc Jockey Boston, we love to go the extra mile to make our customers happy; this one’s on us!