Adding detailing at a SS location. Where do I start?

[Sequoia]

I'm interested in adding detailing at my 3-bay SS.

Where should I start with evaluating what equipment, supplies, etc. is needed? I have a good worker lined up who would learn the trade and do the detail work, and I would handle most of the business side & marketing. My time frame is to get this started this Spring and Summer.

Right now, I don't know where to start looking.

What would you suggest?

 

[Bubbles Galore]

I'm sure Waxman will poke his head in here eventually. He is the one that has helped me the most.

I would take an afternoon and read through every post made in the detailing forum. There is tons of information in there.

 

[bigleo48]

Duane,

I would visit some local shops and perhaps have your employee spend a few days.

Also, go visit other detail shops on the web and get a feel for their offerings.

Youtube is also a good place to go and view some "How To" videos on detailing. There are some good ones (and so bad ones), but it will start the education process.

Some chem and equipment vendors can also provide ideas and training.

Cheers...BigLeo

 

[6t7gto]

Here's how to make REAL money...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkmZveqyU5E

david

He makes a comment about an 820,000 pound Porsche.
That's 1.8 million USD.
You need customers like this.

 

[Sequoia]

YouTube

Didn't even think about YouTube. A great suggestion. Thanks!

I'm going to fly the fellow who would do the detailing to Vegas for the ICA show. This will give us both a chance to look the industry over.

Any suggestions on exhibit booths to visit that specialize in detailing?

 

[bigleo48]

He makes a comment about an 820,000 pound Porsche. That's 1.8 million USD. You need customers like this.

Personally I cringe when a local customer with a Maybach comes in my SS bay or IBA. It's not that I don't trust my equipment, but I prefer not seeing those types of cars as they are usually owned by people with deep pockets and lawyers on retainer. If something was to go wrong...

I wouldn't even think of detailing such a car...it's just not worth it.

BigLeo

 

[6t7gto]

My math was off. 820,000 pounds is close to 1.2 million USD.
I never heard of a Maybach.
this is what I found:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Othe...674QQitemZ220359726674QQptZUSQ5fCarsQ5fTrucks

WOW, the sunroof is 15k.

david

p.s.
are the bail out guys riding around in these?

 

[Bubbles Galore]

I'm going to set up a carport on my site from may 1 to september 30. I will offer your basic express detail options. It won't be anything real extravagant. I want to gauge my customers interest and kind of feel out the market. That was the most cost effective method I could come up with.

 

[bigleo48]

I never heard of a Maybach.

Yeah...you don't see them too often. They're like a German Rolls-Royce...but at the core they are a Benz.

BigLeo

 

[Waxman]

Detailing is a careful blend of quality workmanship and the right price point.

I think Prentiss Clair has a video program I'd look at buying to see what it's all about.

I've got almost 25 years experience detailing all types of cars, trucks, boats, big rigs, etc., so telling you how to get started it tough. How bout I tell you mistakes I made so you can avoid them as well as advice?

1. If you lease a building w/purchase option to detail, get the deal in writing.

2. Spend mucho time training employees.

3. Keep your quality high and pricing can be high.

4. Keep your eye on numbers. You need to be profitable first and foremost.

5. Cut deals w/everyone you can. Negotiate all expenses!!!

6. Buy in bulk when possible to receive the lowest unit cost.

7. Equip yourself well; buffers, wet vacs, ozone machine, carpet extractor, air compressor are all necessary and not optional for a pro shop!

8. Smile, keep the place clean, focus on women customers, train staff to be as good at service as you are. lead by example.

9. Promote and advertise and cross-market with the wash.

10. did I mention a nice, high price point?