What Does a Car Detailing Business Do?

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Car Detailing Business Overview

Car detailing businesses clean and polish vehicle interiors and exteriors. Services include vacuuming, washing, waxing, buffing, and protecting surfaces.

Profit and Start-up Costs

  • Profit margins range around 90% for mobile services. Owners report $40,000 to over $100,000 in annual profits. Profitability depends on the number of services, employees, and location.
  • Start-up costs range from $4,500 to $28,000. Lower-end budgets buy used tools and a trailer. Higher-end budgets rent a physical location and purchase new detailing tools.

Industry Changes and Key Steps

  • The auto detailing industry is evolving with increasing demand for waterless washing and mobile services delivered at homes or workplaces.
  • Key steps to launch a detailing business include:
    1. Get training and experience shadowing an owner or manager.
    2. Research your local market competition, pricing, and opportunities.
    3. Create a business plan with financial projections, equipment needs, target customers, and marketing approach.
    4. Purchase equipment and supplies. Consider used tools or new tools to meet your budget.
    5. Establish service pricing based on offerings, region, and profit goals.
    6. Market services through websites, social media, and word of mouth referrals.

Job Duties of a Detailer

  • Car detailing businesses clean and polish vehicles. Services include vacuuming, washing, waxing, buffing, and protecting surfaces.

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