How To Start A Car Detailing Business?

Answer 1

Car detailing is a very popular service that many car owners will pay a respectable amount of money for. There are detailing services all over the United States, some better than others. For those with an interest in starting their own auto detailing business, it will take time, sweat and some money, but it is possible.

To begin, you will need to ensure that you have all of the necessary supplies to perform the detailing. This means a vacuum with an extension for the interior, waxes for the exterior, brushes and cleaners for the upholstery, squeegees and other glass cleaning supplies. You will also need to have a never ending supply of soft rags which you will probably go through very quickly. You may also want to invest in a steam cleaning unit.

For the sake of your business, you will probably want to detail a few cars pro bono in order to establish that you are performing quality work. In the beginning, word of mouth will be your most important tool for finding new clients. In addition, it will allow you to familiarize yourself with the implements of your trade.

After you are comfortable with your car detailing abilities, it is time to advertise. This can be as simple as flyers in your neighborhood, or an ad in the local papers. It can be as complex as a website or half-page graphical advertisement in a larger paper. It depends on the resources you have and what you are willing to invest in the business.

If you are going into the car detailing business with a partner or group of friends, be certain that you write up contracts so that there are no misunderstandings between you when the money begins to come in.

You will also want to try and keep up with the industry standards of auto detailing. You will want to know what the current trends are and what is coming up. There are a handful of trade magazines available that may be worth looking at.

You can also check for classes in auto detailing at trade schools or local community colleges. These can sometimes greatly improve you knowledge and technique in the industry.

Finally, realize that all businesses take time. As you detail more cars, you level of skill will increase. You will become better and better at detailing and be able to do the job faster and faster as time goes on. Make sure you establish and keep relationships with your customers and provide excellent customer service.