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njdetail is starting to get a good reputation around here.
 
Just A Few Questions - 11-01-2007, 08:14 PM

I'm only getting ideas for mobile. Here's a few questions that I hope y'all don't mind answering.

1. Should I drive a Truck or Van, and which kind do you perfer?

2. Which cleaning chemicals do you recommend?

3. How much do you buy in bulk?

If there is any other things you can think of that could be helpful, that would greatly appriciated

Thanks Everybody
   
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BLACKWRX would be a good candidate for mayor of Autopiaforums.com.
 
Re: Just A Few Questions - 11-04-2007, 07:16 PM

sounds like you need to cruise this site a little more ......... i would start out part time then see how business is, and go from there, a van is good if your carrying a generator and water tank.....if not a truck will do
   
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Mr Detailer
Stephan Can Make Rust ShineStephan Can Make Rust ShineStephan Can Make Rust ShineStephan Can Make Rust ShineStephan Can Make Rust ShineStephan Can Make Rust ShineStephan Can Make Rust Shine
 
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Re: Just A Few Questions - 11-05-2007, 05:45 AM

The first question is a matter of preference. The second question you can get a lot of answers to as people vary on likes and dislikes. Pretty much any of the products you get from any of the sponsors here are good products, and they have the customer service to back it.

The last question depends on the amount of work you do. If you do alot, then yes buy in bulk, you will end up with a lower cost.


I like beer. On occasion I will even drink a beer to celebrate a major event such as the fall of communism or the fact that our refrigerator is still working.

Stephan's Detailing
Portland CT.

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Secret Chimp is very helpful and well-respected.
 
Re: Just A Few Questions - 11-09-2007, 12:30 AM

1. I like vans. They give you tons of space for good marketing signs. I have a Honda Element that I use in my business. Since I don't use water, I don't need a huge vehicle. Think about fuel economy. The miles you drive eat into your bottom line. The difference in fuel economy between a big pick-up and a small van is huge! Remember, your vehicle is your single biggest cost. Make it work for you as best you can.

2. I like using PoorBoys World products. Everyone will have their own opinion on this.

3. Starting off, you don't need to buy in bulk. Just buy enough to get yourself started. You can detail about 30 cars with one 32 oz bottle of Poorboys EX-P. If you buy a case of bottles, you will save some money per bottle. But do you need to have stock on hand to detail 350 vehicles? Also, when you are starting out, you need to figure out what products work best for you. What happens if you buy in bulk and you don't end up liking the product?

My only other suggestion would be to minimize the number of wash services you do and maximize the number of full details. Just doing washes all day, you won't make any more than about $20 for every hour you work. Completing details will get you 40-100 per hour. Which sounds smarter to you? Working 8 hours to make $160 at 20/hr or working 3 hours to make $150 at 50/hr? One occupies your whole day and ends up being your daily maximum. The other leaves you 5 hours to expand your service.


In Orange County, CA? Need more service clients? I'm trying to subcontract out $40k/yr of my weekly service clients...email me for more info!
   
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