Some thoughts on mobile detailing....

[thedetailer]

Originally Posted by rightaway

for $150, what do you consider as detail?wash and just wax?do you clay,polsih,sealant and wax?

.
Good question...I am trying to figure this out as well. I have a package that I call a FULL DETAIL that I do not clay or polish. My customers love the work and pay the price for the detail. In oklahoma, a full detail will run about $100ish. I am considering creating another package that would include paint correction. My question is how much would you reasonably charge about the $100 for full interior/exterior detail?

[Scottwax]

Originally Posted by rightaway

for $150, what do you consider as detail?wash and just wax?do you clay,polsih,sealant and wax?

Full interior cleaning protection, clay as I wash, 1 DA polishing step, wax or sealant. Dirtier than normal interiors, additional polishing as needed would be extra. Small to mid-sized cars only.

[Showroom Shine]

Originally Posted by Sullybob

Great write up on the realities of detailing. Hopefully it will put a different perspective on what you will be detailing and what to expect for people trying to get started in the detailing business.

Thanks for the honest write up.
I started my mobile detailing business 7 years ago. I work a fulltime job and detail on the side. I carry everything in the back of my truck. Generator,water,extractor,pressure washer,the works. I detail whatever my client s have. Sometimes I get the soccoer mom's van and extended suv's too. Dog hair and all the other trash and dirt. It's challenging and I enjoy detailing. I have a few high end clients too.
I did not think for a minute that I was going to be detailing all the expensive rides either. Some of my clients just have nice cars and want them clean and shinning, and I provide that for them.
Living in Ohio, does have it's draw backs too. But I manage to make a little cash,and make some people very happy about their cars.

[1 Clean WS6]

Hey all!!!

So glad to see this thread still getting some "air time" and I want to thank everyone for their great insight and responses!!

My business is now entering its ninth year and we are still going strong!! I have been full time since 2001 and since the birth of my son last October it has been my family's sole source of income. Through drought, floods, blasting heat, freezing cold, $4 a gallon gas and now an economic catastrophe...we have survived! My advice to all those considering this profession is still the same as in the beginning of this thread. Have a realistic and well thought out business plan. Be able to adjust that plan according to outside influences. NEVER try to compete on price as this industry gets flooded every single spring with new start-ups charging $75 for 2 hours of poor quality work. Deliver a great product with exceptional service and professionalism then charge accordingly. That...and marry a good woman.

Mike

P.S. Lola is going to be 10 years old next month...look for a spread on the old girl in the Click n' Brag section soon!

[gmblack3a]

Originally Posted by 1 Clean WS6

Hey all!!!

So glad to see this thread still getting some "air time" and I want to thank everyone for their great insight and responses!!

My business is now entering its ninth year and we are still going strong!! I have been full time since 2001 and since the birth of my son last October it has been my family's sole source of income. Through drought, floods, blasting heat, freezing cold, $4 a gallon gas and now an economic catastrophe...we have survived! My advice to all those considering this profession is still the same as in the beginning of this thread. Have a realistic and well thought out business plan. Be able to adjust that plan according to outside influences. NEVER try to compete on price as this industry gets flooded every single spring with new start-ups charging $75 for 2 hours of poor quality work. Deliver a great product with exceptional service and professionalism then charge accordingly. That...and marry a good woman.

Mike

P.S. Lola is going to be 10 years old next month...look for a spread on the old girl in the Click n' Brag section soon!

Mike, Its great to see you posting again especially since you always have excellent insight.

You are rock solid in your business approach and that is why you are still at it after all this time. Those that have claimed they where your competation in the past are back to selling overpriced vitamins at the mall.

[BigAl3]

mike, glad you you are still alive and kicking!

[JuneBug]

Thanks Mike, I enjoyed this thread and your words of wisdom. Good luck to you and congrats on your baby, even though it's old news - enjoy them while you can, they do grow up so fast! Take care and God bless!

[Pats300zx]

Hey Mike....good to see you posting again. I can only assume that business is booming. I miss seeing your work.

[N1271CL]

Awesome write up, and excellent work Mike!