New UGC creators leave money on the table by pricing like influencers (per follower) instead of like producers (per deliverable and per usage). Here's a framework that scales as you improve.
Price the deliverable, then the rights
Start with a base rate per finished video. Then charge separately for usage: organic-only (they post it on their page) is cheaper; paid-ad usage (they run it as an ad, often for months) is worth substantially more because it makes them money. Time-box ad rights (e.g., 3, 6, 12 months) and renew.
Typical structure
- Base video: a single vertical UGC video, one round of revisions.
- Add-ons: extra hooks/variations, raw footage, whitelisting, faster turnaround, on-camera vs voiceover-only.
- Bundles: 3–5 videos at a small discount to land bigger deals and steady clients.
What raises your rate
Proven ad performance, faster delivery, scripting, editing, multiple variations, and exclusivity all justify higher pricing. As your portfolio and testimonials grow, raise the base rate — don't compete on being the cheapest.
Get the terms in writing
A one-page agreement covering deliverables, revisions, usage scope, and timeline prevents scope creep and unpaid ad usage. Always separate content ownership from usage rights.
New to UGC? Start with how to become a UGC creator. Hiring instead? See how to hire a UGC creator.
FAQ
Should I charge more for ads?
Yes. Paid-ad usage makes the brand money and runs far longer than an organic post — price it as a separate, time-boxed add-on and renew it.
Per video or per hour?
Price per deliverable, not per hour. Clients buy finished videos and the rights to use them, not your time.