Information on Business:
Basics:
You will be helping car owners everywhere keep their cars clean and looking good. One the appealing aspects of this business is the schedule flexibility it has and also a somewhat low initial investment. You can either work from a fixed location by using a rented or owned garage, or you can go mobile to your customers by using a trailer or a van. This business is very competitive so keep prices low, market wisely and offer extras such as free pick up and delivery.
To Get Started:
You should need $6,000 to $15,000 to start this business in order to purchase the cleaning equipment, light paint equipment and a trailer or van to do mobile work. You should already have an interest in autos and art before beginning this business. Market your services to fleet operators, car dealerships, body shops, auto magazines and newspapers, also use online advertisement for your local area. You should be able to charge from $100 to $800 per job depending on complexity. Some of the services you will provide include window-tinting, waxing, washing, pin-striping, chrome polishing, engine shampooing, carpet steam-cleaning, and any additional detailing services that your competitors may have overlooked.
Tips:
This has great potential to be a home business, since most of the negotiations and work can be done from home, if you own the garage or lot, if you work from a fixed location make sure you offer free pickup and delivery of the vehicle, or at least valet parking. If you are mobile make sure to emphasize the ability to save your customers time. You should not require a staff to run this business unless you grow it. Once the business is large enough you will need a larger working area and assistants. This business is good for people that have limited disabilities as long as the work required can be performed. For additional information on this business do a search for automotive detailing and also for the international detailing association.
Definition:
A business that provides auto cleaning services, and light paint services to individuals and groups of people, by using a fixed or mobile location to provide for those services.
Revenue Range:
$40,000 to $70,000 per year
Education and Training Required:
A strong interest in art and artistic aptitude.
Equipment Required:
Automobile cleaning equipment such as rags, brushes, waxing tools, swabs, polish materials, airbrushes, sealant and paint. For mobile business you also need a truck and trailer.
