Starting up detailing.

S

SkeptiKal

New member
I try to keep my car in good shape through out the year. This has brought the attention of a few of my friends in particular, who wanted to me to do the same for them.



I enjoy the work and eventually would like to turn it into a 'weekend' business.



Starting out can be tough and I want to make sure I get enough business so my customer base grows. Pricing is obviously a big part of any business and Im not sure how much I should charge for my detailing.



This would obviously depend on the cars that I am working with but a standard job would entail:

Wash

Claybar

Wash again (optional)

Polish/Swirl Remover Type of thing

Glaze

Wax



I would also dress and clean the tires, trim, lights, etc.



Preatty much a whole exterior clean up. I have looked at the dealership where I got my car and for a similar job (minus claybar and a few things) they charge $150 + 15% tax. I am also willing to travel.



What do you guys think would be a reasonable price for me to charge?



Either me coming to their house or they coming to me.
 
This takes me a long time to do, 6 hours +.



I would like to get paid the maximum amount possible but shouldn't I go a little cheaper?



Don't customers that you deal with value having a receipt and a 'professional' dealership to bring their car to?



I see myself having a hard time competing with the dealerships as my reputation hasn't been established yet.



Maybe you are right, but it just suprises me that people would be willing to shell out that much money for someone doing it on the side.



Lastly, who do you find has the biggest need for such a job? Rich people with nice cars who are too lazy to do it themselves? Or some other genre?
 
Looks like you got some competition :D Im from Richmond Hill and do mobile detailing specializing in European Cars. I just opened business 2 weeks ago registering with the government :D Are you coming to the meguiars clinic on the 23rd?



Jake

Spit Shine Detailing:wavey
 
Unforutently I got two exams on the 25th and won't be able to make it.



Would be a cool learning experience and I wish I could make it.



How much are you charging btw? I don't think I will venture out that far out of my area and was wondering whats a good base to charge.
 
Typically my client base wants a full detail and it seems right now because the business is new, 150 will get you swirl removal, glaze if necessary, clay if necessary, and sealant. Interior dressing, vacumn, and carpets cleaned.



I would like to bump these prices up as my experience continues with the pc and I can afford a rotary. I am just looking to outgrow my client base via internet marketing right now. I am offering a full free detail also on one of the websites i frequent in order to promote business and will write this off as a business expense at the end of the year.



Jake

Spit Shine Detailing
 
Good luck with your business. I am doing the same. It's been a real learning treat. I am at the point getting my client base built. I work second shift so i plan to do a detail or two a day pending the service required. Putting together price packages was the hardest. I researched many web sites of detailers for pricing and think i will do well. I know the shops and area dealers charge a base price of 150 and up. I am just below that with more options and do it becuase it's something i enjoy not just a machinic that has nothing to do. I have seen there work and it's nothing comparable. Just remember to always better yourself. You will do fine. Good Luck!!!
 
big 1 said:
I am offering a full free detail also on one of the websites i frequent in order to promote business and will write this off as a business expense at the end of the year.
Click to expand...



I don't know anything about Canadian tax law, but I seriously doubt that you will be writing off anything other than the materials you used. Your time and lost profit are not normally chargable against tax.
 
There are certain allowances for things like vehicles, advertising, supplies, etc. That's why it's really important to hire a quality accountant if you are not VERY familiar with tax laws and the like.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top