How to Launch a Mobile Detailing Business: From Ground Zero to $6,000 Per Month

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      Josh Belk is a full-time college student who also works full-time in web design. In his limited free time, he has launched a mobile detailing business with his younger brother, generating $6,000 a month. This idea emerged when Josh recognized a connection between his passion and a market opportunity.

      On the passion side, Josh frequently saw his brother detailing his own car in the driveway. On the opportunity side, he received an email outlining business ideas anyone could pursue, which included mobile car washing. He approached his brother to team up and explore the idea of making money cleaning cars, leading to the establishment of Belk Mobile Detailing.

      Tune in to listen to the full podcast episode where the duo discusses how they:

      - Secured their initial mobile detailing customers

      - Set their pricing

      - Differentiated themselves from competitors

      **How to Acquire Your First Mobile Detailing Customers**

      “Friends and family play a crucial role,” Josh mentioned about starting out. Their mother was very supportive from the beginning, spreading the word through text messages to her friends and family and posting about their new business on Facebook. This generated a few paying customers, which was essential for the brothers to expand their reach.

      “We utilized these initial clients for effective marketing materials, like before and after photos, and to gather positive first reviews,” Josh explained. “Reviews are vital in this industry.”

      **Mobile Detailing Startup Costs**

      Although mobile detailing requires relatively low startup costs, there are essential items to have:

      - **Equipment**:

       - Bucket and wash mitt – A standard bucket can be purchased for about $5, but Josh opted for one that costs $30, which helps separate shampoo and water.

       - Pressure washer – Although Josh began without one, he found it significantly improved his efficiency after investing about $170 in a battery-powered model.

       - Towels and brushes – An ample supply is necessary for car cleaning.

       - Cleaning products – Josh primarily uses degreaser, spray wax, and tire shine, all crucial for achieving the best appearance of a vehicle.

       - Extractor – Josh considers this device essential for interior detailing, costing around $120.

       - Steamer – Helpful for reaching tight spaces in consoles, door panels, and leather seats.

       - Vacuum – Josh utilizes a Shop Vac, which cost about $40.

      In total, Josh estimates spending between $400 to $600 on equipment. While incorporating the business might not be necessary, obtaining a business credit card to separate business expenses from personal ones could be a wise move.

      - **Insurance**: It's advisable to obtain general liability insurance to protect against any damages to a customer's vehicle. NEXT Insurance offers competitive business insurance quotes.

      **Growing Demand in Mobile Detailing**

      “Most of our customers are getting their first detail,” Josh shared. Despite fewer people driving, many are keeping their vehicles longer, leading to increased spending on care and maintenance. The car wash and detailing industry is highly localized, with IBISWorld estimating it as a $10 billion sector, where no single company holds more than a 5% market share nationally.

      **Who Utilizes Detailing Services?**

      - **Individual Customers**: Most first-time customers find them through:

       - Facebook advertisements

       - Searching for “detailing services” or “mobile car washing” online

       - Word-of-mouth referrals

      - **Business Clients**: Josh also has continued work from a local dealership that provides consistent business, typically reaching out 3-4 times a week.

      **Pricing Mobile Detailing Services**

      Initially, Belk Mobile Detailing had very low prices. Josh remembers charging their first customers $30 for a complete interior and exterior detail, which took about two hours. They advertised their services at $50 but offered a $20 discount for the initial jobs.

      At that low price, they even questioned its viability. However, Josh clarified that it was a temporary measure to gain experience, build reviews, and collect marketing photos. As they began acquiring regular customers, Josh gradually increased their pricing from $50 to $70, and eventually to $100, $120. Their current rates are:

      - $90 for an interior detail

      - $50 for an exterior detail

      - $140 for a full detail

      These prices align with national averages, but Josh emphasized that these are starting prices. He communicates to each customer that an inspection of their vehicle is necessary to provide an accurate quote, as some vehicles require significantly more time and work than others. Ultimately, Josh aims for an effective hourly rate of $40-50, which is a good way to earn money in college!

      **Encouraging Customer Reviews**

      Despite being young, Josh’s venture