How to Start a Car Detailing Business in 11 Steps

Looking to buff up your bank account with a shiny new business? Starting a car detailing business might be the opportunity you’re looking for. The industry is growing: From 2014 to 2022, the U.S. market grew by over 30% to reach nearly $15 billion.

Detailing a car goes far beyond a basic car wash. It’s about making vehicles look their absolute best, inside and out. Detailers clean, polish, and protect every part of a car, from the paint to the engine bay, to make it look as good as new.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to start a car detailing business. We’ll cover everything from understanding the industry to promoting your services, helping you turn your passion for pristine cars into a profitable enterprise.

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What Is Auto Detailing?

Auto detailing is like giving a car a spa day. It’s a thorough cleaning and polishing of a vehicle, both inside and out, to make it look its very best. Unlike a quick car wash, detailing pays attention to every nook and cranny of the customer’s ride.

When it comes to exterior detailing, it’s all about making the car’s outside shine. The typical sequence is:

1. A thorough wash to remove dirt and grime
2. Claying the paint to get rid of any stuck-on particles
3. Polishing to remove light scratches and swirl marks
4. Applying a wax or sealant to protect the paint and give it that showroom gleam

But it doesn’t necessarily stop there. Full-service exterior detailing also includes cleaning and shining the wheels, tires, windows, and even the engine bay.

Interior detailing is just as important. The procedure usually goes like this:

1. Removing dirt and debris from the carpets and seats with a deep vacuum
2. Shampooing or steam cleaning the upholstery to remove stains.
3. Wiping down all the hard surfaces, like the dashboard, console, air vents, and door panels, and treating them with protectants.

The ultimate goal is to make the inside and outside of the car look, feel, and smell as good as new.

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Types of Auto Detail Businesses

Not all auto detailing businesses are the same. Depending on your skills, resources, and target customers, you might specialize in a specific type of detailing. Let’s look at some popular options:

• Mobile Detailing. Mobile detailing businesses come to the customer. You bring all your equipment in a van or truck and detail cars right in the owner’s driveway or office parking lot.
• Shop-Based Detailing. With this setup, you have a fixed location where customers bring their vehicles. This could be a standalone shop or part of a larger car care center.
• Dealership Services. Some detailers focus on cleaning and polishing cars for dealerships. This can include both new cars getting prepped for sale and used cars getting spruced up for the lot.
• Luxury and Exotic Car Detailing. This niche caters to high-end vehicles for which clients want extra care and attention to detail.
• RV Detailing. Recreational vehicles need love, too. These larger vehicles often require specialized equipment and techniques.

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How Much Do Car Detailers Make?

When starting any new business, it’s natural to wonder about potential earnings. Car detailing can be profitable, but like any job, income can vary based on several factors.

The typical income range for salaried car detailers is about $38,000 to $53,000 per year. However, self-employed car detailers can make significantly more. Nearly half earn between $36,000 and $90,000 a year.

Your earnings as a car detailer depend on many factors. Location plays a big role. Detailers in big cities or wealthy areas are typically able to charge more. The types of services you offer and how many cars you can detail in a day also affect your income. You may be able to increase your prices as you build a reputation and gain regular customers.

Don’t forget that running your own business means you’ll have expenses to cover, too, like supplies and equipment—though startup costs for a mobile detailing company are generally affordable. But with hard work and good business skills, car detailing can be a rewarding career both financially and personally.

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11 Steps to Open a Car Detailing Business

Starting a brand-new car detailing business might seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into steps can make it more manageable. Here’s a roadmap to help you launch your new venture:

1. Research the Car Detailing Industry. Learn about current trends, popular car detailing services, and what customers in your area are looking for. This knowledge will help you make smart decisions as you set up your business.
2. Get the Required Licenses in Your State. Find out what permits and licenses you need to operate legally. This might include a general business license, sales tax permit, or specific car detailing certifications.
3. Write a Complete Business Plan. Think of this as a roadmap for your business. Include your goals, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategies. A solid plan can guide your decisions and help out if you need to get a loan.
4. Choose a Type of Business Entity. Decide how to structure your business legally. The most common types are sole proprietorships, partnerships, and LLCs. Each has different tax implications and levels of personal liability.
5. Ensure Financial Resources. Figure out how much money you need to start and run your business. This might involve using savings, getting a loan, or finding investors. It’s also good to open a business bank account to separate personal and company funds.
6. Choose a Business Location. Decide if you want to run a mobile car detailing business or have a fixed location. Consider factors like cost, accessibility for customers, and space for your equipment.
7. Create a Service List. Outline the services you’ll offer. This might include basic washes, full detailing packages, or specialized services like paint correction.
8. Invest in Car Detailing Gear. Buy the equipment and supplies you need. This might include pressure washers, vacuums, polishers, and cleaning products.
9. Set Your Pricing Strategy. Research what other detailers in your area charge. Then, set your prices based on your costs, the value you provide, and what the market will bear.
10. Build a Team (Optional). If you plan to hire help, start recruiting and training employees. Make sure they share your commitment to quality work.
11. Promote Your Business. Get the word out about your new business. Use social media, create a website, and consider local advertising to attract your first customers.

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4 Pro Tips for Car Detailing Business Management

Running a successful car detailing company is about more than just making cars sparkle. Here are some expert tips to help you manage your business like a pro:

• Use Scheduling Software. Make it easy for customers to book appointments and for you to manage your time. A good scheduling software helps you avoid double booking and remind customers about their appointments.
• Build an Online Presence. In today’s digital marketplace, your business needs to be online. Create a website and use social media to show off your work. Post before-and-after photos and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews.
• Set Competitive Prices. Look at what other detailers in your area charge, but don’t simply copy them. Think about your costs, the quality of your work, and what your target customers can afford. It’s okay to charge more if you offer better service.
• Keep Track of All Expenses. Write down every penny you spend on your business. This includes major expenses like advanced equipment and small things like cleaning cloths. Knowing where your money goes helps you make smart decisions and saves you headaches come tax season.

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Automate Bookkeeping by Syncing Your Joist and Quickbooks Online Accounts

Car detailers work with many clients, which can make bookkeeping a challenge. Joist makes it easy.

Manage, organize, and automate your bookkeeping with our QuickBooks Online sync. Spend less time keeping records and more time delighting customers, all while keeping your books organized.