How do you price a detail job?

[LeMarque]

I know of one heck of a nice guy who lost everything buffing through the edge of an all original 625k Ferrari. 275 GTB

So if you think you responded to a guy that may have some smarts ...

Originally from the east coast, from the time I was 16, I went to the Grand Prix races at Watkins Glen, etc. and even owned a share in a twin cam MG.

Twenty or so years ago I managed three major brand full service gas stations. Had great cash flow. Could afford to do almost anything. That was then, things are not easy money any longer.

There was a news article that a drug dealer here in town was busted and they were auctioning off his GTB! I absolutely loved that car. I remember an article in R&T that showed how no two were identical because the body was hand formed over wooden forms.

I didn't go to the auction and it sold for 40K :wall

But I am smart enough that I wouldn't attempt correction on an exotic like that. Although I might PM someone to fly on out to work with me on it

 

[ca.detailchick]

You have some good points.

The biggest problem with Concours work for a living is that is not always readily available. To break into it many times takes a proven winning track record. I'm not saying it isn't possible just it takes dedication. To win many times you are going up against the best; not all the time but your niche is owners who want their vehicle one step better.
Many Concours vehicles are restored and have been sanded and buffed many times. There is alot of risk. For example take a $500k original paint vehicle which at some point been polished. Paint gauges help but in many cases and other variables only give you a guestimate of how much color is on the vehicle.
If buffed through it is a minimum 20% depreciation plus the cost of repair
500k -20% plus repair= Big Loss. Be prepared. I carry 2mil plus 1mil umbrella on this aspect of my business alone.
I'm not trying to discourage you at all just cover your bases. I know of one heck of a nice guy who lost everything buffing through the edge of an all original 625k Ferrari. 275 GTB.
Best of luck do your research!

A great post to remind everyone of the risks involed ,especially when using a rotary.:bigups

 

[Sleper]

Mainly I detail daily drivers so I charge by size. Bigger the vehicle the more it costs. If someone wants something special(black vehicle and wants swirls removed) I charge extra. Not easy as you do loose on some but I try to bring each vehicle to the next level so the cleaner it arrives the cleaner it leaves. Hopefully this makes sence,

 

[wendell jarvis]

I try to keep pricing simple, Educate the customer on your services, the benefits of your services and let them decide.....base price also on condition of automobile,size and roughly give yourself plenty of time to complete the job.......roughly about $20.00 hour