Switching · Australia
Switching from ServiceM8 to Tradify
One of the most common moves in Australian job software — usually because of Android, desktop work, or just wanting a smoother quoting flow. Here is what actually changes, and how to do it without dropping a job.
By Software TradiesUpdated 6 October 20266 min read
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Why tradies make this switch
- You work on Android or desktop, not just iPhone.
- You want the smoother quote → invoice flow.
- You are adding staff and want straightforward per-user pricing.
- You want a more even app across devices.
Side by side
| ServiceM8 | Tradify | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Solo sparkies, iPhone-first | Small teams, cross-platform |
| Price from | $29/mo (AUD incl GST) | $48/mo per user (ex GST) |
| Platform | iOS-first (Android behind) | iOS, Android, desktop — even |
| Quoting | Good | Very good, fast on mobile |
| Xero sync | Yes | Yes (cleaner) |
| Free option | Yes (1 user, limited) | No — 14-day trial |
How the move works
- 1Start a Tradify free trial alongside ServiceM8. 14 days. Do not cancel ServiceM8 until the trial has proven itself on a real job.
- 2Export your ServiceM8 client list. Client data usually moves via CSV. Historic jobs and photos generally do not — export anything you need to keep.
- 3Rebuild or import your quote and invoice templates. Match your current look so customers do not notice the change.
- 4Reconnect Xero or MYOB in Tradify. Your books do not move — you are only re-pointing the integration.
- 5Run a job through Tradify end-to-end. One real job, start to invoice. If it is not smoother, stay put.
- 6Cancel ServiceM8 before your next billing date. Check the renewal date so you are not paying for both.
What to watch for
- Check your ServiceM8 billing date — cancel before it renews.
- ServiceM8 is iPhone-first: if you love it on iOS, Tradify is not a like-for-like on the phone.
- Historic job history does not migrate — export what you need first.
- Tradify is per-user, so the cost climbs as you add staff.
The verdict
Move to Tradify if…
- Android or desktop is your main device.
- You want the smoother quoting and invoicing flow.
- You are happy to pay a little more per user for fit.
Stay on ServiceM8 if…
- You are on iPhone and happy with ServiceM8.
- You rely on ServiceM8 features Tradify does not match.
- Price is the deciding factor — ServiceM8 starts cheaper.
Common questions
Can I import my ServiceM8 data into Tradify?
Client data usually transfers via CSV; historic jobs and photos generally do not. Export what you need before you cancel.
Will Xero/MYOB sync still work?
Yes — you reconnect the integration in Tradify. Your accounting data does not move.
How long should I run both?
For one real job, not for months. Paying two subscriptions is the classic switching mistake.
Is Tradify cheaper than ServiceM8?
No — ServiceM8 starts at $29/mo; Tradify from $48/mo per user. You switch for fit, not usually for price.