Bare essentials

[maddrama]

Straight to the point...I'm unemployed and collecting UI benefits. I don't want to rely on that until they run out though. I have a church member willing to make some BEAUTIFUL business cards for me(when they're done i'll upload them....maybe even start a thread for sharing b-card pics). I have a great marketing strategy(includes $5 referral bonus for customers to encourage and show appreciation for word of mouth advertising). Only problem I really have is lack of funds to start. I have been getting little by little as my checks come to one day start(tanks and waterless wash so far). Thought waterless wash would be enough to start exteriors but don't trust it as primary means(ONR coming soon). My question is, what are the bare essentials? What kind of set up should i use being so strapped for cash but SO eager to start the business. I'm thinking ONR, waterless wash, QD, tire shine, 2 garden sprayers one for ONR pre-soak and one for wheel well rinse, and a good spray wax. Now i would think that's cheapest but best quality wash and light wax for exteriors(minimal run off- convenience, stands out from others in the business, and I CAN'T AFFORD WATER RECLAIM!). What about interiors? Is what I listed for the exterior good? What's the best but pocket friendly wash media? Already looking for the CHEAPEST towels i can find for door jams and vinyl interior. I know I said alot, and still have more to ask. But I'd appreciate everyone answering best they could. I know many of you are pros with successful businesses and i'm aspiring to reach that level. I really have a vision for this business but it will have very humble beginnings. Ok let me shut up...THANKS ALOT!!!

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Bare essentials

Just to note, I removed your duplicate post on this same topic in the Detailing 101 forum. No need to post a thread twice.

[CieraSL]

Re: Bare essentials

Make sure you have some sort of all wheel cleaner and degreaser for tires and wheel wells. Not sure about a good waterless wash, hopefully others will chime in. Also, if you're looking for a good but cheap exterior wax, try Meguiar's Cleaner Wax. Sells for about $5 a bottle at Wal-Mart.

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Bare essentials

My question is, what are the bare essentials?

To start with, have you read through this?

Getting your Mobile Detailing Business Started the Right Way


I was flattered the have been asked by the Auto Laundry News to contribute an article on starting a mobile business.

Mobile Detailing
by Jose Fernandez

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Bare essentials

Start writing down what services you're going to provide and this will help you create a list of the products you'll need to perform the services.

For example, by writing down what each service you'll offer provides you'll create a list of products you'll need.

Basic Wash - Wash and dry car. (You need a car wash or rinseless wash and drying towels)

5-Star Wash - Wash and dry car, dress tires, clean outside glass. (You'll need a car wash, drying towels, tire dressing, glass cleaner).


Since you're just starting out you want to keep things basic until you get more experience and a feel for your market or customer base and what they want and what they'll pay.


Just to note, on forums like this we all tend to get caught up in creating swirl free, show car finishes and that's not how the real world thinks. Most people don't even know what swirls are, they either see a shiny car with dark black tires or a dull car with dirty tires and wheels. The point is the majority of people just want a clean shiny car, not something they can put on display under harsh bright lights for the most critical eyes to dissect.

[ClearlyCoated]

Re: Bare essentials

You posted another thread that you plan to scout out some business parks with your planned operation. With summer rapidly approaching, the need to wash your clients' cars in the shade should be as important as the rest of the gear you're putting together. The last thing you want to do is return a car to its owner covered with dried water spots or etchings. I don't know if products like ONR spot in the sun, but I imagine that even the makers of ONR would recommend applying their product in the shade.

The water that you use to pre-soak or for rinsing the wheel wells should be deionized or distilled. Maybe find a couple of empty 5 gallon bottles and take them to a water dispensing machine outside a supermarket to fill em up. Most of these machines have an option for purified (deionized or distilled) water.

If the business park does not provide some sort of shaded area, you might consider buying or borrowing a canopy - preferably one that you can set up by yourself. Make sure the canopy is secured with anchor plates or by another method. Cover the legs of the canopy in foam rubber or pool noodles to protect the car against incidental scratches or dings from unexpected gusts of wind.

[maddrama]

Re: Bare essentials

thanx guys. you have a good point CC, i'm in the south so the sun and it's heat is something to take into serious consideration. i'll have to check on the ONR thing.

[Markus Kleis]

Re: Bare essentials

If you could only get 1 wax, and you want it to be quick, easy to use, and look great- my choice would be for M20.

If you can spring for two: M20 (base coat) and M21 2.0.

If you want something absurdly quick and easy to use, Ultimate Quick Wax.