Thoughts on packages/prices for my detailing buisness! - Page 3

StumpyDetailing · 08-23-09, 11:05

Yep. Full-Detail in my mind means you polished the paint before waxing. Thats a FULL Detail.

Now, that is NOT the same as a 2-step compound then finishing polish! Don't even let them know you do that and you'll never have to... Unless they're able to fork over more cash, then of course!

Trick is *KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS*! Offer them what they can afford. If they can afford it, sell them on it.

If you think they can only afford $100 for a detail, give them a $120 detail for $100, and they'll be over the moon happy.

If you think they can afford $200 for a detail, give them your best shot at a full detail without multi-step paint correction. Polishing is included!

If you think they want paint correction, let them know that you charge hourly at $40 per hour, and most cars range from 8-12 hours to correct. That way you are sure to be making $300 minimum, up to $500+ for a large black vehicle.

And believe me!!! SOME PEOPLE CAN AFFORD IT!!

Don't try to sell a full detail to someone that can only afford $100. And don't try to sell a full correction to someone that just wants a full detail. Keep them separate!

And business will be swell.

detailingnmore · 08-24-09, 05:29

That could be sound advice for customers of which you "know" their financial situation. Many times I have been "fooled" by what I thought were lower income customers. When I attempted to offer lower priced services, they look at me funny and want my best services and whip out the cash to do it! Also, when I let them know that I take all major credit cards so that they can spread out the cost over a few months, they get a little insulted and say they always pay in cash. So, I no longer assume what they can afford, but ask what they are looking to spend. That way I can offer a suitable package.

Dr.Boost · 09-24-09, 11:13

This is great info guys! This is helping me immensely with pricing my services.

Dirt-B-Gone · 09-25-09, 06:32

Great thread - Awesome info

I too Thank You for all the great info posted.

I'm getting everything together to start my mobile business. The cost of insurance is the big hurdle right now.

detailingnmore · 09-25-09, 04:47

Hey guys, not to be a downer, but I have closed my business due to a pretty darn good job offer. Yes, I'm going to work for someone else, but it's a good situation with lots of potential for me and my family. So, if any one is interested, I have a fully outfitted 6x12 Wells Cargo trailer with everything you need to offer full reconditioning services as well as detailing. PM me if you would like more info.

I hate to leave the business, but sometimes you have to take advantage of opportunities that come your way.

Scott

paintxpert · 09-25-09, 05:08

In terms of pricing during these DEPRESSING times. You can have all the formulas you want....if the customer only has limited cash you hate to walk away from any job. I only did a few 275.00 jobs on the gold coast this year. That was from folks that you know could afford it. I have been doing PIG STYES for 250.00 bucks. I feel guilty taking any more than that. Usually it takes me 3.5 to 4 hours. I figure about 65.00 per hour in this economy makes people happy. My exterior buff is usually 165.00 BLACK is 175.00. Exteriors are 2 hours TOPS for me. Dont get to hung up on pricing because there are way TOO MANY VARIABLES! I charge EXTRA for scratch removal if I can. If you veiw the vehicle you can give the customer aFREE PAINT EVALUATION! I have been offering that over 38 years. Be Well and thanks for reading. BenLeoneDetailer

paintxpert · 09-25-09, 05:20

I also want to point out that every car I have done the last 38 years has been the best I can make that paint look. I correct the paint included in the 165.00 for the exterior. It takes me TWO hours usually. for 82.50 per hour I give it all I got. They in turn bring it to show their friends and family and I GET MORE BUSINESS! I dont do any advertising in my business besides my license plates and a small logo on my back window....I NEVER DRIVE A DIRTY CAR. Good Luck to you all! Dont put out any BAD work and dont UNDERPRICE that hurts us all! BenLeoneDetailer

paintxpert · 09-25-09, 05:28

Scott-Taking a job that has bennies is a GREAT thing! the only thing I hated about working for someone is it TOOK TOO LONG! I lost my freedom for 30 years while I did detailing part-time on the weekends. It was not that bad. I may do it again soon. People and business here in the North east is NOT GOOD! Folks are crying the unemployment rate is over 10 percent! Working for someone in this economy is a GOOD thing. BenLeoneDetailer I wont work full time for anyone again! I will die happy with a polisher in my hand! NOONE is making MONEY on my back ever again! I vowed that when I turned 50....you will probably do the same someday! Be Well!

iRace559 · 09-28-09, 12:49

Maybe I'm just stupid and like working on cars, but your prices compared to what I charge are extremely high. $150 for a "wash n wax" sounds ridiculous to most people. I charge $60 for cars and $75 for trucks. For an interior/exterior detail plus a one step polishing I only charge $130 for cars and $160 for trucks. I work with a partner and get the job done in a timely manner and don't overlook anything. I am a college student, living at home with basically no overhead. Call me crazy I guess.

unleashedfury · 10-02-09, 12:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by iRace559

Maybe I'm just stupid and like working on cars, but your prices compared to what I charge are extremely high. $150 for a "wash n wax" sounds ridiculous to most people. I charge $60 for cars and $75 for trucks. For an interior/exterior detail plus a one step polishing I only charge $130 for cars and $160 for trucks. I work with a partner and get the job done in a timely manner and don't overlook anything. I am a college student, living at home with basically no overhead. Call me crazy I guess.

well you have No Overhead as you stated. SO its almost all profit for you minus the chemicals.

You have a Partner so Doing a 5 to 6 hour job in 3 hours. Is possible. You split the profit. Your done. When you get into having overhead, Insurance, and alot are just a one man show. Its all about making a profit and paying the bills