Detailing business

I

imported_erock

New member
Hey guys,

I know that there are quite a few of you guys that run your own detailing business..... If you don't mind, i've got a few questions for you.....



- Do you need a specific license or certificate to be a "detailer"



- How did you guys get started, what all did you need to start off?



- Do you guys do it as a hobby, side job, primary job, etc.?



- What do you guys usually charge. Is there different prices for things.



- How long does it take (avg) to fully detail a car inside & out?



- Do you have any hired help, or do you

do it alone?



Sorry for so many questions but I've been getting some good feedback on my car and my GF's car, i was wondering if it would be worthwhile to try set up a business. Maybe some kinda Mobile Detailer or something...... Any help would be appreciated. TIA
 
It may take a while, but if you search this forum you are sure to find answers to all of your questions. Alot of people; even myself have asked those questions and people have spent some serious time really explaining themselves. If you do a search you can find those answers, I'm sure not everyone wants to type their lengthy messages all over again.



I'm a two finger typer so if I type something long, I just type it once hahahaha :p
 
erock,



There is no official governing body for which detailers answer to. The only license you may need is one issues from the city where your business is located OR you may need a business license for each city you detail in if you choose to be a mobile detailer.



I started my detail business for about $500 a little over 13 years ago and today you may be able to get one going for about $800.



I started off with a few GEM orbitals, wash bucket, towels, hose and the needed cleaners, polishes and waxes.



This is my profession. I have not punched a clock for a good number of years now. Praise God I never have to again.



As for prices, they differ per vehicle based on how much work is involved. I usually try tomake at least $30 an hour. Several customers I go to just pay me a flat rate for the day whether I am there 3 hours or 8.



The time one spends on a detail depends on the level the client wants to go. A wash and wax, with a vacuum, windows wheels and tires on a 4 door sedan, like a BMW 540, should get you at least $75 to $80. A detail onthe same car, inside and out, bumper to bumper should get you at least $175 to $250. Depending on your clients and economic area.



I have only one employee. I have had her for only 3 years now and the last 10 years has been pretty much on my own. I do my best work when left alone. It's free therapy for me.



Hope that helps

Anthony
 
This is my profession. I have not punched a clock for a good number of years now. Praise God I never have to again.
Click to expand...



I'd give anything to do what your doing!



My problem is that I have a wife and 3 teenage sons to support and I currently make too much money! (Too young to retire also.)



It would be great if I could get the boys involved in a business, but they have absolutely NO INTEREST in cars or detailing! They all have jobs, but they're just not car guys. I'm not going to force them to do something they hate doing.



I'll go full-time some day, but for now it's evenings and weekends.
 
Luster said:
I'd give anything to do what your doing!



My problem is that I have a wife and 3 teenage sons to support and I currently make too much money! (Too young to retire also.)



It would be great if I could get the boys involved in a business, but they have absolutely NO INTEREST in cars or detailing! They all have jobs, but they're just not car guys. I'm not going to force them to do something they hate doing.



I'll go full-time some day, but for now it's evenings and weekends.
Click to expand...



Working for people does suck- but as long as you are making enough to support yourself then you can complaint too much :D.



plz tell your kids about www.younginvestors.net
 
Luster said:


It would be great if I could get the boys involved in a business, but they have absolutely NO INTEREST in cars or detailing! They all have jobs, but they're just not car guys. I'm not going to force them to do something they hate doing.
Click to expand...





Hi, I am sam. I am willing to be your new son. j/k of course.
 
Luster,



I know what you mean. BUT I have a wife and up until 2 years ago had 4 kids at home. My wife only works a part time job just to get a little extra cash for this or that.



I could make alot more money in this business but I would also then sacrifice the quality and thats where I have made my name. People are willing to part with $200 to $300 per car because they know I will spend lots of time on their cars and TLC.......can ya feel the love?



Keep reaching and happy detailing



Anthony
 
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