I think marlin was asking why the op didn't install the shocks at home..

If not though labor for shock install should have only been 20 per shock if the shocks were purchased instead of warrantied, install would have been free . Not sure if all shops work this way but at sears mechanics work on commission. They get paid a percentage of the labor charged to the customer with the exception of oil changes and batteries. They have a set rate based on the vehicle, so if no labor cost, your mechanic isn't getting paid.