Looking to Start a Mobile Detail Business

DT08 · 08-10-09, 12:59

What's up people?!!!

I'm DT. I'm new to Autopia and I already see there are many veterans out here in the auto detail business. So off the bat, I would like to say any advice would be much appreciated.

I'm looking to start a mobile detailing business. I have a few questions and let me just explain what I've been doing and let me know if you have experienced the same. At the moment I detail cars from my Chevy Blazer. I carry all my equipment and supplies to the homes of the clients who are nice enough to let me use their water and electric. I feel it's a little tacky, but they appreciate the work I do, so I'm thankful for that. I'm doing details, but I haven't invested in a carpet extractor so I rent one from a local hardware store. That sucks b/c I have to drop $30 each time I have a job that requires a shampoo.

Did you many of you guys start out from the trunk of your cars? Also, which is a better setup a van or a trailer? At the moment I'm working on a business plan and hopefully by next year I can take it to the next level. Another thing is I live in Buffalo, NY. As mentioned before any advice on starting a mobile business, running a successful mobile business, or anything is very much appreciated.

Thanks!!!

brwill2005 · 08-10-09, 01:25

Will this be a full time thing? If so, the weather in Buffalo is going to be a big issue. For me in NOVA, business definitely slows in the winter, and it can be too cold at times. Try to sign up as many people as possible on year round maintenance plans (wash and vacuum). Nothing wrong with detailing out of a car, just as long as it looks professional. I detail out of my Scion XB. It looks professional, and it is much more efficient than a truck or van. Study the demographics in your area, to make sure there is a demand for detailing services. It is niche market and usually the people who buy these services are in a high income bracket. Plan your marketing efforts carefully, so that you can reach your target market. Good Luck.

DT08 · 08-10-09, 04:38

Thanks Brad! I have a pretty nice clientle now. I've been doing this for about two years now, so when the winter comes they usually take their cars somewhere else, but as soon as the spring and summer roll around I'm doing their cars.

For right now it would just be a part time thing live I've been doing it. Some evenings during the week and during the weekends. I moved to a suburb outside of Buffalo and the people in the area are looking to pay for a quality detail since they have the money to spend. Also, they like the fact that someone comes to their house to do their car. One of my clients said his neighbor was jealous that someone was able to come to their home and do their car. I was able to get the neighbor as a client...lol.