Thread: First time detailing (How to start my own buisness)

Hey, I've been thinking about it over the weekend and i want to start a small detailing buisness in the Montreal region. I have been wondering the following.

1) What are the main product's i need to buy?
2) How much should i be charging my customers?
3) What are the "best" detailing video's for a beginner?
4) How much should i be looking to invest?

If you guys could answer me the following, it would be great Thank you!

This is exactly why i don't trust all these detailing business sprouting out of nowhere. You have zero experience in detailing yet you are starting a business? I hope you know what you are doing before you start charging people.

although inNout has some good points, hopefully this helps a bit more

I would suggest getting a job with another detailer or a shop that does this stuff and you can learn...you need to be taught. Get all the tips and tricks you need to be a good detailer...then you need to learn how to operate a good business. How to deal with customers, how to follow up with leads, how to generate new business on a consistent basis...its more than just what wax you buy and how hard to press with a buffer.

Thats my $0.02. you can become a very good detailer with experience...but you have to start somewhere.

2 choices to get some experience in buff/polish :
- a panel , that u will use to do test , over and over
- buff your car , friends , relatives
...and true: detailing is not just the pressure on buffer ,
you may wanna look in ecologic products , a portal cable or meguiar`s g110 for polish , and a makita 9227 for defects , vacuum , a pair of halogen work lights... this are just a few
investment will not be a lot if u mobile or u work from home. but get experience before u charge a customer.
time yourself each step from detailing , take notes and u will see how much is worth for a car, or for the steps u do.
good luck

Thanks for your replys :P I really don't plan on doing any big jobs or charge anyone until I have enough experience.

Essentials for Starting a New Business - by Jon Miller MBA [Business Management] - Detailing Bliss Forum

Originally Posted by Davi

Thanks for your replys :P I really don't plan on doing any big jobs or charge anyone until I have enough experience.

Autopia.com is as great detailing forum to learn stuff.

Davi,

I think it's a great idea to have a pro detailer in Montreal. There isn't any (who is known at least) but ...

I think you're best shot would be to find a pro detailer and ask him to work for him for free. Learn as much as you can and practice on junk cars until you become a pro.

At one time, I wanted to detail my own cars and I got to learn a lot about the existing world of detailing (chemical guys, SV, autopia, forums, techniques, etc) and watched tons of vids on youtube. I realized there was no way I could do it: I don't have the patience nor the experience so I let the pros do what they do best. I just wash following a precise method (2 buckets, top to bottom and use the best products etc).

This detailing thing isn't about theory, it's all about practice.

[This detailing thing isn't about theory, it's all about practice.]

IMO I don't think anything is devoid of some theory- you need to learn not only 'How to but 'Why' as well as what chemicals to use

Detailing takes willingness to experiment, which usually means deviating from the product manufacturer’s directions, making objectives observations based upon the results obtained, and adjusting the techniques and products used as necessary, always keeping an open mind on manufacturer’s claims for their products. Always keep an open mind and I would also strongly suggest that you verify any information that I or anyone else shares with you.

Knowledge is everything; so keep an open mind and be ready to learn from those who’ve already got the information you need. It is this type of information that makes you not only a better detailer, but both professional and knowledgeable in your field. Knowledge of new technology and application methods also made detailer’s more in demand with both employers and clients.

The aesthetics of a vehicles appearance - is often an emotional reaction, which is very subjective to say the least, the only best wax or sealant that really matters is what looks 'best' to you. In the final analysis it all come down to; 85% preparation, 5% product, 7% application methodology and the balance is in the ‘guy’ of the beholder

from experience i can tell you this trade isnt something you can pickup over night. you really have to practice, be it on a scrap panel, your own car or family cars. also you need to be constantly reading and researching. since i started there hasnt been a day where i dont visit detailing forums to learn about new products and methods. also as far as investing goes, i myself to start off spent well over $2k, and ive probably spent $3-$4k so far on supplies. thankfully i have made the money back already and its profit for now but i would suggest starting off by offering a simple wash, clay, wax package along with wheel cleaning and dressing. after you've made money with that you can move up to the bigger things like polishing. like i said you have to learn alot and constantly read up on the subject. hope this helped.