rm25x Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 Ok guys, so I have been researching starting a mobile detailing business for months now. I plan to only offer hand washes, interior details and one steps. I have read every thread on this forum, detailing bliss, and the autopia forum I could find in regards to mobile detailing. The thing I am confused with, is how much stuff do I actually need? I know for washing it's best to use the 2 bucket method with grit guards. I have read some about the foam cannons. Can you foam a car without using a pressure washer? My thought is that if I am advertising a hand wash, and show up with a pressure washer they will feel as if they could have done the same thing at the local coin wash. I guess what I am asking is if you had to start over today, with not a lot of money, and running it out of your car what would you purchase? I plan to detail only when I have power and water hookups available. I do have a Honda 1000 watt generator, but would rather not have to use it. I am not sure if it would run anything other then lights anyways for me. Thanks in advance for any help. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Team Adam's Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 There are hose based foam guns. Search amazon for the Gilmour Foam Master. So basically you're looking to do only basic wash n' wax type jobs? No paint correction. Thats fine, the pressure washer is going to speed things up for you for sure and in a business like this turnover is the key - The faster and more effectively you can get thru a job the better. I wouldn't worry about the perception of 'coin op' if they're paying you to do it they're paying for your time/expertise. What you're saying the same as implying if people see the chef cooking with pots and pans at a restaurant they'll leave and do it at home b/c they already own pots and pans. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rm25x Posted January 7, 2013 Author Share Posted January 7, 2013 Good points. I am unsure about paint correction right now. I need more practice with it first. I plan to get a Flex and go to town. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Team Adam's Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 Other things that many people who decide to make a job out of detailing don't consider - Make sure you carry proper insurance, have a business license, and all the proper documentation for your business. Too many people jump in and do stuff like this as an under the table gig, problem is you are going to be stepping onto other peoples property, working on their cars that can be worth anything from $5,000 to $200,000 or more. Sure you're only washing and drying, cleaning interiors, but what happens if you accidentally damage something? What if the owner comes out of his house and slips/falls on wet concrete? What happens if the local city gets wind of you operating a business without the proper license and documentation? Its not worth putting yourself in financial jeopardy for big $$$ to make $50. Do it legit or don't do it at all IMO. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pureshine Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 Other things that many people who decide to make a job out of detailing don't consider - Make sure you carry proper insurance, have a business license, and all the proper documentation for your business. Too many people jump in and do stuff like this as an under the table gig, problem is you are going to be stepping onto other peoples property, working on their cars that can be worth anything from $5,000 to $200,000 or more. Sure you're only washing and drying, cleaning interiors, but what happens if you accidentally damage something? What if the owner comes out of his house and slips/falls on wet concrete? What happens if the local city gets wind of you operating a business without the proper license and documentation? Its not worth putting yourself in financial jeopardy for big $$$ to make $50. Do it legit or don't do it at all IMO. Ya my insurance is up to $1,000,00 and only cost my $32 a month.That covers if I damage the car or crash it and all so covers all my tools and supplies. I did my website at ipage was pretty cheap and easy. Todd:thumbsup: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Feets31 Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 Take to an insurance agent who writes commercial policies. You may need a basic liability policy and garage keepers liability if you drive their car or work on them at your house. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rm25x Posted January 7, 2013 Author Share Posted January 7, 2013 Thanks guys, I plan on doing it legit for sure. I live in an apartment for now so all work will be done off site. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Z71_Denali Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 there are quite a few pros on here that do it for a living. hopefully they chime in after hours for ya Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pureshine Posted January 7, 2013 Share Posted January 7, 2013 Ya my insurance is up to $1,000,00 and only cost my $32 a month.That covers if I damage the car or crash it and all so covers all my tools and supplies. I did my website at ipage was pretty cheap and easy. Todd:thumbsup: Ya my business is out of my house and my insurance is through State Farm. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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