After doing a successful detail today on the tl once again, a thought popped into my mind........Part time detailing business. (like 2-3 jobs per week.)

-As for the location, I live just next to a very affluent area.

What are the average charges to customers to do different aspects of a detail? Such as, wash? wash/clay/wax? wash and wax? How about polish? Engine bay? The interior needs to be done as well.....?

What about supplies? For the average part time detailer what type of supplies should be used, the Meguiar's lineup?

Any insight and tips before getting myself into this is greatly appreciated.

 

2-3 jobs is a good amount of business...good luck!

 

You doing hardcore details like the guys on here? Paint correction using a PC and UV light, shampooing carpets, etc?

 

I'd say to spend some time researching the existing database of articles on the subject matter...

I'd be willing to bet there has been a few existing threads on the subject.

 

No. Just like wash, clay, wax, polishes, vacuum, dashes, etc....

Where in west palm are you?

 

Take a visit over Autopia.org. There are professional detailer subforums that you can pick up the business aspect from.

As far as pricing goes, I really don't think their is an ''average''. It's all about demographics and the vehicle itself.

 

Have you called any of the local shops for an idea? That should be your first place to get an idea of charges, or simply call a few mobile guys for an idea of what they charge.
I dont touch anything in my area for under $250.00. I shoot for $50.00 P/H. Sometimes its $40.00, sometimes its $60.00 +.

 

I just checked out Autopia and got a little info from there.

I am planning on calling the local guys in the morning before work starts at 9. I am not a "pro" detailer, but just a kid trying to make some extra cash in and out of school. I have got a detailing routine down for both the exterior and interior, however I do not have things like a PC, a generator, or a pressure washer...Only old school stuff like a mitt and a hose and a pair of hands. So is it "offensive" to show up to a job and ask to use a outlet and a hose spigot?

Also, do you guys do complimentary things like exhaust cleaning and stuff or is that all built into the price?

 

So I called around and got some ideas on pricing and such.
But post #8 please?

 

bolded

 

My customers do not have any issues with me using their water or electricity. Only use the water as needed, and if it appears to the owner your not wasting anything, its not really a problem IME. NO ONE really appreciates the noises accompanied with gas powered generators and hi pressure systems.
I make it clear to my customers, everything is addressed but the engine area. And that includes exhaust tips.

 

Live on Clematis and rosemary, downtown by city place

 

Oh, nice.
I'm in West Boca at the end of Palmetto.