Here’s everything you need to know about starting a car detailing business. 

How do I start a car detailing business?

It takes time and effort to get a car detailing business off the ground. But it’s worth it! We broke down the steps for you to start and grow a successful car detailing business. 

#1 Complete a car detailing course

Before you can get your care detailing business on the road, you need to have some skills and training. A lot of car detailers are self-taught. You’ve probably practiced in your own car or with friends or family members. Still, it’s good to have some formal training so you can give your clients the best service possible. 

There are training programs and certifications available online and in person. Some brands host training seminars to teach you how to use their specialty products on your client’s car. On top of car detailing skills, training programs can also teach you how to win new clients and run a business. So, don’t skip this step!

#2 Get a business license (if it’s required)

Some states require detailers to earn a business license before they can start a business. There are a few states where you can operate a mobile car detailing business without a license. If your state does require one, you may have to pay a fee to earn your business license. Also, some states may require the acquisition of commercial insurance or surety bonds. Do your research to make sure you’re complying with state regulations. It’ll save you a headache later on.

#3 Invest in tools and equipment

A car detailing business requires a lot of manual labor for you or your team. So, it’s essential to have the right equipment to save you time and money! Here are a few essentials: 

• A van: If you’re starting a mobile car detailing business, you’ll need a van. Mobile businesses are a great option because they have generally low overhead costs, and you can meet clients where they are. Some companies sell mobile detailing vans with the complete set of tools you’ll need to run the business. An excellent mobile detailing setup makes running your business ten times easier.
• Pressure washer: Pressure washers are the ultimate tool for a mobile detailing setup because they make it easy to get rid of dirt and grime on a vehicle’s exterior, wheels, and tires, plus hard-to-reach areas like an engine bay and undercarriage. They’re a standard tool and take the strain off you and your team.
• Detailing brushes: You need specialty detailing rushes to get into those hard-to-reach, tight spaces of a vehicle that your pressure washer can’t manage. They come in an array of shapes and sizes and are designed to prevent scratches and damage to delicate surfaces.
•  Microfiber Towels: Microfiber towels are soft, absorbent, and gentle on surfaces. These towels trap dirt and debris without leaving behind scratches or streaks on a car. Plus, they’re an eco-friendly and inexpensive option for your mobile detailing business.

You may also want to get your hands on specialty products like clay bar treatments. Read our complete guide to building a mobile detailing setup .  

#4 Price Yourself Fairly

Now that you have the tools you need to do the work, it’s time to think about building your service list and decide on your rates. Do your research on car detailing rates in your area. And resist the temptation to charge below your market value. Clients are willing to pay more for a job well done, especially if you’re handling an expensive car. 

Here’s a tip: use factor-based pricing to make more money for your car detailing business. Cars with pet stains and old paint are more challenging to clean than others. So, it’s okay to charge a bit more. This way, you earn the total value of your services. 

#5 Craft your brand message

Car detailing is a fast-growing industry. So, you won’t be the only detailing service in your area. Make sure your business stands out with a unique brand and specific message. Branding is the story of your business. Find out what sets you apart from your competitors and lean into it. Maybe you only use sustainable products or specialize in vintage cars. 

Branding helps you reach and connect with your target audience. If you’re not sure who your target market is, take a survey of your current customers. Figure out their ages, interests, and even income. Use this data to create a profile of your ideal customer. And talk to that customer in your marketing materials. You’re sure to see higher conversion rates with a strong brand message!

#6 Automate business management tasks

Automation makes it easy for you to run your business and connect with clients. You can have clients book you online, schedule invoices, and accept payment from clients, all within a few clicks. You can even automate your client communications to keep them engaged and happy. For example, you can schedule texts to let clients know when they’re due for a cleaning or send email reminders with discounts and other special offers.

Automation makes it so much easier to run and grow your car detailing business. All you need is the right software. To get your business rolling, try a dedicated CRM like PocketSuite. PocketSuite allows you to automate every aspect of your car detailing business, so gives you more time to do what you love.

#7 Build an online presence

Your mobile car detailing business needs an online presence. It’s good to have a dedicated, professional website. But your social media pages can fill in. 

Social platforms give clients an easy point of contact and act as a portfolio of your work. Clients might be put off if they can’t find a social media presence when they look you up. You can start by creating a Facebook or Instagram page and listing your business on Google. 

A Google business page is essential for car detailers. Most potential clients will check your Google review wall before booking you for a service. PocketSuite makes it easy to grow your business using your Google Business page. The app automatically solicits reviews from clients after completing a service. Plus, our integration allows you to add a book now button on the page to bring in new leads. 

Let’s Get Started!

You have to put in a lot of time and effort to start a car detailing business. But it’s worth it! With tools, training, and a solid online presence, you can grow a six-figure detailing business. 

PocketSuite will help you hold on to those clients. We have all the tools you need to run your business, including booking, payments, and contracts!

In this article, we show you the must-haves for an effective mobile detailing setup.

What are the essentials for a mobile detailing setup?

Here’s everything you need to create the perfect mobile detailing setup for your business in 2024

#1 A high-quality pressure washer

Pressure washers are the ultimate tool for a mobile detailing setup. These versatile cleaning tools make it easy to get rid of dirt and grime on a vehicle’s exterior, wheels, and tires. Pressure washers can also clean hard-to-reach areas like an engine bay and undercarriage. So, it takes some of the strain off you and your team. Plus, some pressure washers have adjustable settings, allowing you to customize the effects to the job. You save time and effort and get better results.  

Most detailers will have a pressure washer ready to go in their van. But, if you can’t get your hands on one, there are specific nozzles and chemical products that can imitate the results of pressure washing.

#2 Modern detailing brushes

When was the last time you switched out your detailing brushes? Brushes are essential tools for a mobile detailing setup. They get into those hard-to-reach, tight spaces of a vehicle that your pressure washer can’t manage. They’re super versatile and come in an array of shapes and sizes to match the task at hand. We know you love your old favorites. But it may be time for an upgrade. 

The industry is constantly evolving, and so is equipment. These days, detailing brushes are made with high-quality, ultra-soft bristles that can tackle tough cleaning jobs. You should try modern detailing brushes, which are designed to prevent scratches and damage to delicate surfaces. Your clients will thank you!

#3 Eco-friendly Microfiber Towels

Microfiber towels are essential for your mobile detailing setup. They are designed from a blend of synthetic fibers, which makes them soft, absorbent, and gentle on surfaces. These towels trap dirt and debris without leaving behind scratches or streaks on a car. Plus, microfiber towels are machine washable, i.e., they’re reusable, making them an eco-friendly and inexpensive option for your mobile detailing business. Some detailers use microfiber alternatives, like cotton towels or chamois cloths. But because they last longer and are good for the environment, microfiber towels are the superior choice. Eco-friendly microfiber towels are a must-have for any mobile detailer looking to upgrade their setup in 2024.

#4 Gentle clay bar treatments

Clay bar treatments are quickly becoming a must-have on a mobile detailer’s service list. So, it’s essential to have clay bars in your mobile detailing setup. It’s a really innovative product that can remove dirt, grime, and tar from the surface of a car’s paint. They are the perfect tool to prep a car before applying wax or sealant.

Just make sure you choose high-quality clay bars that can pick up contaminants from the surface of a car without damaging the paint. These treatments are a big hit with clients because clay bars are so easy and safe to use. Some detailers still don’t use clay bars. They prefer to stick to traditional cleansers. However, nothing quite compares to the gentle but effective results of a clay bar treatment.

#5 A portable generator

Portable generators are essential for your mobile detailing setup. They provide an independent power source, so you can use your tools anywhere without relying on an electrical outlet. Portable generators come in different sizes, power ratings, and features. Plus, generators are more user-friendly with features like electric start, multiple outlets, and automatic voltage regulation. So be sure to do your research and find one that fits your needs. 

Your competition may be using alternative power sources, like inverters or batteries. However, a portable generator is the most efficient and reliable option for a mobile detailing setup.

Bonus: Scheduling Software

There’s one tool left to add to your mobile detailing setup: a booking app! As a mobile detailer, you’re constantly on the move. So you need software that can automate your business management tasks, like scheduling appointments and collecting payments. PocketSuite is the best tool for the job. With PocketSuite, you can:

• Have clients book you online. 
• Create subaccounts, or car profiles, for each of your client’s cars
• Accept payments with multiple payment methods, including Tap To Pay on your mobile phone
• Add a book now button to your Google My Business profile and solicit reviews from client
•  View your appointment calendar on a digital map to make it easier to navigate to your next client

PocketSuite is the best tool to run and grow a mobile detailing business!

Do you have everything on the list?

Whether you’re starting a mobile detailing business or just looking to upgrade your setup, investing in these tools will give you the best results. And don’t forget to get your hands on scheduling software. PocketSuite is an all-in-one booking app for mobile detailers. 

Vehicle manufacturing is increasing across the board, and more people are buying pre-owned cars that are in dire need of TLC, i.e., you have more opportunities to grow your mobile car detailing business. Even if you already have a profitable mobile detailing business, you can try new offers so your business evolves with the market. 

We put together a list of the top mobile detailing trends that will help you grow your business in 2024.  

What trends will take over the mobile detailing industry in 2024?

According to  ReporLinker, car detail clients are looking for on-demand services in this market, so “service providers can grow their business by allowing customers to book services…whenever they need, at any location.” As a mobile detailer, you’re already ahead of the game because you meet clients where they’re at, even in the comfort of their own homes. Still, you’ll need a bit more to stand out from competitors.

Add these trending mobile detail services to your business in 2024.

#1 Plastic headlight restoration

Plastic headlight restoration is a simple and cost-effective service. You’ll help clients restore the clarity and brightness of their headlights, making their vehicles safer and more attractive. It’s an incredibly profitable service as the cost of materials and tools are relatively low, and it can completed in just a few hours. Mobile detailers charge anywhere from $50 to $200 for a headlight restoration. 

Plus, plastic headlight restoration can attract new clients to your mobile detailing business. Your clients might not even know that they can restore their headlights. So, you can show your expertise and stand out from the competition with this unique offer. 

Overall, plastic headlight restoration is a valuable service that mobile detailers should consider adding to their business. You attract new clients while also improving the safety and appearance of their vehicles. If this isn’t already on your service list, make sure to add it in 2024!

#2 Clay bar treatments

Are you willing to spice up your detailing service list? Give clay bar treatments a try! Clay bar treatments are a quick and easy way to remove contaminants from a vehicle’s paint surface. This treatment uses a specialized clay bar to remove dirt, grime, and other types of buildup that are too pesky to be removed by washing alone. 

Mobile detailers typically charge anywhere from $50 to $100 for a clay bar treatment, but it depends on the size of the vehicle. You’ll provide extra value to your current clients and attract new clients who are looking for unique ways to care for their vehicles. So there’s potential to grow your income!

#3 Paint protection film 

To attract more clients (and stay ahead of the competition), add paint protection film (PPF) services to your business in 2024. If you’re totally unfamiliar, PPF is a clear film that is applied to the exterior surfaces of a vehicle to protect it from scratches, chips, and other types of damage.  PPF offers long-lasting protection against environmental elements and can help prevent costly repairs down the line. Clients want results with longevity, so there’s a growing demand for PPF. Tap into this market to expand your business offers and boost your income!

PPF installation requires skill and expertise, but it can be a profitable service for mobile detailers. Mobile detailers typically charge anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for a full PPF installation, but it depends on the size of the vehicle and the level of protection the client wants.

Is your mobile detailing business up to scratch?

2024 is fast approaching! Make sure your mobile detailing business is ready to tackle the competition by getting ahead of these industry trends. You’re sure to get an influx of new clients, and PocketSuite can help manage them all! From appointment reminders to contracts to team management, PocketSuite is the number one app to grow your mobile detailing business.

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about Jobber, why it may not be the best fit for your mobile detailing business, and compare the app to PocketSuite. 

What is Jobber?

Jobber is field service management software. Many home services businesses, like mobile detailers, pressure washers, and landscapers, use Jobber to schedule appointments, manage team members, and accept payments. 

Is Jobber a good booking app for mobile detailers? 

While Jobber is a popular app, it may not be worth the cost to your mobile detailing business. Not to mention, many features that draw business to Jobber are actually integrations with other apps, i.e., more money out of your pocket. 

Here’s why small business owners might find themselves in need of Jobber alternatives. 

#1 Too Expensive 

Field management software is an investment, but is Jobber worth the cost? Jobber is notably one of the more expensive booking apps for mobile detailers. Jobber’s least expensive plan is a whopping $69 per month, and that’s only for a single user! 

Also, many essential features aren’t available on their Core plan, including online booking, automated appointment reminders, job forms, and two-way texting with clients. Online booking is essential for a mobile detailer. Otherwise, you spend hours on your computer doing a task that could easily be automated. It seems unthinkable to pay nearly $70 per month with no way to have clients book you online. 

Jobber’s other plans range from $169 to $350 per month! Not to mention, you only get a 14-day free trial to decide if the app is right for your business. 

PocketSuite’s plans start at $24.99 per month. Plus, you get a 30-day free trial with full access to our dynamic features. It’s a no-brainer! 

#2 No built-in Leads and Review Feature

As a mobile detailer, you know how tough it is to attract and retain new clients. That’s why it’s essential to have tools that generate high-quality leads and solicit reviews from past clients. Unfortunately, Jobber does not offer a built-in lead generation and review feature. 

If users want to find leads and request reviews from clients, Jobber recommends integrating with another app, like Broadly or Thumbtack. This is an extra step for you and more money out of your wallet. 

PocketSuite wants to make it easy for you to find new customers and land those 5-star reviews. Our Google Leads and Review feature connects easily to your Google Business profile. In a few simple steps, you can add a book now button to your profiles so clients can book you through Google search or maps. Plus, we send automatic review requests to your clients for no extra charge! You can even respond to reviews in the PocketSuite app. 

#3 No built-in contracts

Contracts are essential for a mobile detailing business. You need to protect your business from legal action, and your clients want assurance that their high-value cars are in the right hands. Unfortunately, Jobber doesn’t have a built-in feature to create and sign contracts. 

Instead, Jobber users must integrate their accounts with Docu-sign to make contracts for their clients. This means users must pay an additional monthly cost for Docu-sign on top of Jobber’s hefty price tag. No thanks!

PocketSuite allows you to create and sign contracts in the app at no extra cost. You can send them to your clients via text, email, or in-app messaging. Plus, we have pre-made contract templates for mobile detailers. So you can get set up in minutes. 

#4 No Partial Refunds

To small business owners, payments are everything. Unfortunately, Jobber’s payment functionality is limited, especially when it comes to issuing refunds to clients. 

Jobber doesn’t allow partial refunds on payments made through the Jobber app. Instead, you’ll have to use a time-consuming workaround, where you issue the full refund and then charge your clients again for the difference. This is frustrating when customers pay a deposit or pay in advance and don’t use the full value of their deposit.  Not to mention, clients will find it annoying to be charged twice just to receive a refund. 

On PocketSuite, you can do full, partial, and custom refunds. PocketSuite is the best way to accept payments for your mobile detailing business. You can accept multiple payment methods straight from your phone, whether you use tap to pay, a card reader, or mark paid to accept cash. 

#5 Limits on in-app messaging 

Quick and effective client communication is key for mobile detailers. Jobber does offer in-app “two-way texting” between you and your clients. However, you can’t share images with your clients through this feature. This can frustrate a mobile detailer when you need to share photo updates with clients. Plus, two-way texting isn’t even available on Jobber’s least expensive plan. 

Not to mention, you can’t use this “two-way texting” feature to message or start a group chat with your team. You’ll have to use email notifications or another app to remind your team members about appointments or schedule changes. 

With PocketSuite’s in-app messaging, you can message clients directly, send images and other attachments, and start a group chat with your team to keep everyone in the loop! In-app messaging is available for all PocketSuite users. 

Are you ready to break up with Jobber? 

Jobber is a popular app to run a home service business. But Jobber’s hefty price tag, plus the cost of other apps you’ll need, may not be worth it. 

PocketSuite is the best Jobber alternative for mobile detailers. We have everything you need to schedule appointments, communicate with clients, and manage payments straight from your phone. We’re the all-in-one app to grow a mobile detailing business.

In this article, we give your experts tips to grow a successful boat detailing business. 

Can I make six figures as a mobile marine detailer?

Absolutely! Your client’s boat is most likely their prized possession and their most expensive investment. Your boat detailing business keeps its vessel beautiful and durable and helps it last longer. So, they’re willing to pay premium prices for excellent service.

On average, mobile marine detailer employees make about $35,000 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. But you have the potential to earn six figures a year when you own the business detailing boats.  It’s a big step up in earning potential!

Your mobile marine business is entirely in your hands, so you get to set your rates and manage your schedule. You’re not stuck working as a salaried detailer. That means you have endless opportunities to expand your clientele and earn more money. 

How do I grow my boat detailing business?

As a boat detailer, you refresh and refurbish the exterior of your clients’ boats to make them look like new. Make sure you do the same to small business growth strategy. You’ll attract more clients and earn more money. 

Here are five tips to grow as a mobile marine detailer. 

#1 Offer high-demand boat detailing services as packages and subscriptions 

To grow your boat detailing business and earn more money, make sure you have the right services on your booking site. Boat detailers typically offer:

• Hull detailing
• Exterior washes
• Engine Cleaning
• Cabin cleaning 
• Vinyl cleaning

Mobile marine detailers often offer services for jet skis and other marine vessels. Plus, with the right skills, you can also offer boat repair and replacement services.

To make the most of your premium services, bundle them as packages or subscriptions. Bundles make it easy to get more repeat bookings and earn more money upfront. 

#2 Invest in high-quality products and equipment 

As a boat detailer, you know products and equipment can make or break a job.  Boats are constantly exposed to natural elements and extreme weather conditions.  So, ordinary cleaning products and equipment won’t cut it. You need heavy-duty products to repair or prevent wear and tear and keep your clients happy. In the long run, it pays to invest in effective equipment. And you won’t necessarily have to break the bank to do it. 

For example, get your hands on bilge cleaner to remove grease and grime, products to combat boat oxidation, as well as polish and sealants for shine and protection.

If you’re a mobile car detailer looking to branch into boat detailing, some tools, like your pressure, weather, and vacuum, may be able to handle double duty. However, make sure you research separate products and tools to handle the special needs of marine vessels. 

#3 Use Google reviews to boost your local marketing efforts

The world has gone global. However, local marketing is key for small business owners. Your clients live, work, and go boating in your neighborhood and city. Make sure your marketing and lead generation efforts are targeted toward their needs and interests. Your Google Business page is your best bet to attract local clients. 

Most consumers check a company’s Google reviews before interacting with a business. There are ways to optimize your profile to get more reviews and bookings. PocketSuite makes it easy to grow your Google review wall and bring in leads from your Google business page.  

Also, local marketing doesn’t have to stop at your Google Business page. You can build brand recognition by playing an active role in your community. Attend local boat shows, races, and festivals. You may even be able to set up a booth at a mobile marine detailer expo and show off your skills live.  Community events give you an opportunity to build trust with potential clients in your area.

#4 Implement a competitive pricing strategy

Take a look at what competitors are charging for boat detailing services in your area. It may be tempting to price yourself lower to break into the industry. But, we would caution against this. Remember, clients are willing to pay for high-quality detail, especially for such large, expensive vessels.

According to Detail King, boat detailing services are usually charged by the square foot of the boat. This helps mobile marine detailers manage client expectations and get paid fairly for their labor.  For example, you might charge anywhere from $8 to $15 per square foot for a hull detail or $5 to $10 for a vinyl treatment. 

Also, you may be able to use factor-based pricing to earn more from boat detailing services. Some vessels are more difficult to clean than others. So, don’t be afraid to charge a bit more for special services. This way, you get compensated for the entire value of your detail.

#5 Be creative and consistent with your social media strategy 

To get more clients for your boat detailing business, you have to stand out online. It’s good to have a business website and, of course, your online booking page, but your social media pages will be the heavy hitters.

Make it easy for clients to contact you and view your past boat detailing work by regularly updating your social platforms. They give proof and credibility to your business. You don’t need to take on every new social media trend but start a Facebook or Instagram page where clients can connect you.

The best part is that you have engaging content built into your brand. As a mobile marine detailer, you can take potential clients on a journey with your content, literally. Give them a glimpse into #boatlife, and take before and after pictures of your services. Just make sure to get your client’s permission to share.

And remember to drop a link to your booking site in your social media bio.

All aboard!

You can turn your boat detailing business into a six-figure salary. Don’t be afraid to price yourself fairly and make sure to fit in time for marketing efforts to bring in more clients. Plus, you can take advantage of PocketSuite’s dynamic features like packages and subscriptions or Google leads and reviews to make it easy to earn more money. We’re the all-in-one app to grow your mobile marine detailing business.

We put together a list of the best mobile businesses to start with a van. 

What mobile service business can I start with a van?

Mobile businesses are taking off! Your mobile business may be just a van or a trailer that’s easy to hook up to your truck and get moving. Either way, you can attract clients and build a successful service-based business.

Here are the top mobile businesses you can start today.

#1 Mobile Dog Gym

A mobile dog gym makes it easy to exercise dogs. Mobile dog gyms are equipped with dog treadmills, so you can “run dogs” right in their owners’ driveway. Clients love the convenience of this budding business concept. Some clients don’t have the time to walk their dogs. Or, they live in extreme weather conditions where walks just aren’t possible. 

Mobile dog gyms are becoming increasingly popular. But there’s still time to dominate the market in your area. With time and a solid marketing strategy, you can earn good money from a mobile dog gym. 

#2 Mobile Pet Groomer

Mobile groomers offer a full range of pet grooming services at their client’s chosen locations.  Clients love mobile pet groomers because they’re flexible. Their pets stay clean, happy, and healthy without the ordeal of leaving their owner to go to a groomer.

It’s a safe option for clients that are anxious to drop their pets off at a groomer for hours on end or don’t like the idea of being put in a cage. Plus, it’s convenient for clients on a busy work schedule who can’t find time to leave home. Mobile pet groomers are in high demand. So, you’re sure to find clients in need of your services. 

Mobile pet groomers typically offer:

• Baths
• Nail, teeth, and ear cleanings
• Haircuts
• Brushing
• Drying

Plus, as a mobile business, you get to expand your pet grooming services to other towns and cities. Pet grooming vans or mobile grooming salons are decked out with heated baths, dryers, and other tools. 

#3 Mobile Nail Salon

For clients, mobile nail bars are an exclusive, personal experience. They can get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy nail salon. Who knows? Clients may even call you in for a fresh set during their lunch break at work. It’s a convenient way to fit in their regular nail appointment.

As a mobile nail salon, you provide all the same high-quality nail services as a brick-and-mortar salon, including:

• Manicures
• Pedicures
• Foot and hand massages

Mobile nail techs can also make money from events. Clients will hire you to do nails at their birthdays, bachelorette parties, or other events.  So, be sure to have all-in-one nail salon management software to manage clients and grow your business.

#4 Mobile Car Detailer

Mobile car detailers are one of the most popular (and most profitable) businesses to start with a van. Mobile detailers bring interior and exterior detailing services to the client’s doorstep. Your clients get the quality and care of traditional detailing services without having to visit an auto shop.

Clients are willing to pay more to save time with a car. With traditional detailing services, clients may be without their services for a whole day. 

From cleaning to restoration, you’ll provide a full range of car detailing, including:

• Waxing
• Wash and  dry
• Vacuum
• Steam cleaning

Mobile car detailing vans come in different shapes and sizes. But typically, they’re equipped with portable pressure washers and other essential tools.

#5 Mobile Mechanic 

Mobile mechanics repair vehicles on-site, wherever a client needs them. You can step in if a client’s car breaks down at home or they simply don’t have time to get to a repair shop. Clients will be happy they don’t have to sit around a garage waiting for a solution. They can schedule appointments that work on their time.

Mobile mechanics usually offer common car repair and maintenance services like oil changes, heating and air conditioner issues, steering wheel issues, and replacement services.

Mobile mechanics don’t necessarily need a van as they work mostly with the client’s vehicle. You are good to go if you can fit your must-have tools in a truck or small car. 

#6 Mobile Bar/Event

A party wouldn’t be complete without a stocked bar. So, you’re sure to be in demand with this mobile business. Mobile bars make great money from weddings, corporate parties, and other events. You may even park at a local farmer’s market amongst food trucks or your local Christmas fair. 

Aesthetics are important for a mobile bar. Clients want a van or trailer that can blend in easily with their event theme. So, you may want a simple vehicle that can be customized. 

It’s time to get movin’ 

Mobile businesses are growing in popularity. You can get in on rewards. Whether you use your van to start a beauty, auto, or pet business, you can build a long-term business doing what you love.

It’s easy to run a mobile business with PocketSuite. From scheduling to payments to inventory tracking, we have everything you need to manage clients and grow your business.

But how?

Here’s everything you need to know about marketing your mobile car detailing business to attract more clients. 

How Do Mobile Detailers Get Customers?

So, you’re all geared up but haven’t got any bookings for your mobile detailing business? Don’t worry. It takes time to build a loyal client list and earn a consistent income. You can speed up the process by leveling up your marketing strategy. Mobile detailers get customers through a mix of excellent service and clever marketing techniques.

Here are eight marketing tips to make more money for your mobile car detailing business.

#1 Build a Unique Brand

You won’t be the only mobile detailing van on the street. Make sure your business stands out with a unique brand and specific message.

Branding is way more than fonts and color schemes. It’s the story of your business. So, make it a good one! Find out what sets you apart from your competitors and lean into it. Maybe you only use sustainable products or specialize in vintage cars.

For example, Diamond Pro Detailing specializes in luxury cars. So, they emphasize wealth and luxury in their branding. You’ll find pictures of mansions and high-end cars across their website and social media pages. And they even offer a “V.I.P. membership” to clients.

Storytelling in branding helps you reach and connect with your target audience. If you’re not sure who your target market is, take a survey of your current customers. Figure out their ages, interests, and even income. Use this data to create a profile of your ideal customer. And talk to that customer in your marketing materials. 

#2 Take Advantage of Automation

Marketing automation makes it easy for you to connect with clients over and over again. You can schedule texts to let clients know when they’re due for a cleaning or email reminders with discounts and other special offers. Automation is a quick way to get repeat bookings for your mobile car detailing business.

To get your marketing automation strategy off the ground, you’ll need a dedicated CRM like PocketSuite. PocketSuite allows you to send customized invoices, contracts and text campaigns to your entire client list in just a few clicks.

#3 Curate Your Social Media

Your mobile car detailing business needs an online presence. It’s good to have a dedicated, professional website. But your social media pages can fill in. 

Social platforms give clients an easy point of contact and act as a portfolio of your work. Clients might be put off if they can’t find a social media presence when they look you up. You can start by creating a Facebook or Instagram page and listing your business on Google.

The good news: car businesses do great on social media. You can take before and after pictures or videos of your services. Car detailing videos are especially satisfying to watch. People love deep-cleaning content, so your audience will be hooked. It doesn’t have to be a feature-length production. All you really need is your phone and your client’s permission. 

Remember to add a link to your custom booking site on all your social media pages.

#4 Ask for Referrals 

Referral programs are a great way to find mobile car detailing clients. You offer incentives like cash, service discounts, or merchandise to current clients. They get rewarded for every new client sent your way. And you get to watch the business roll in. 

You can also get referrals from other car professionals, like body shops or car dealerships. They send you clients and vice versa. This is called a referral partnership. It also helps you build a community in the mobile detailing space. 

#5 Boost Your Paid Promotion (with caution)

You can also give paid ads a chance. Most social media platforms have the option to send out paid advertising. Be practical about paid marketing strategies. If you have the budget to push $5k worth of Facebook ads per month, amazing. But if your business is smaller, set a reasonable budget. It’s okay to dip your toes in the water. 

And make sure to track the results of your paid marketing efforts so you don’t repeat mistakes. Over time, you find out which ads perform best with a certain audience. Then you can retarget the audience that interacted with your ads.

Important: As a local business, you will also want to make sure you limit your advertising campaign to the zip codes in which you do business. 

#6 Create Click-worthy Content

Good content pays off. (Literally!) You can attract more clients by creating useful content for blogs, email, and social media. It’s an opportunity to show off your services and your expertise. To get eyes on your content, you have to optimize for search, i.e., use keywords, hashtags, and SEO best practices to drive traffic to your page. 

Remember to repurpose content for your mobile car detailing business. One podcast episode can be a blog post, Tiktok video, and Pinterest pin. 

#7 Don’t Forget About Local Advertising

These days, everything is online. But local advertising is still alive and well. As a mobile detailer, you mostly work with clients in your neighborhood or city. So, radio and billboard ads can be effective at bringing in new business (as long as it’s at a reasonable price).

You can also market your mobile detailing business by showing up in your community. Attend local festivals and car expos, or set up a booth at a mobile detailing conference. At community events, you can chat with potential clients and even show off your skills in front of competitors. 

#8 Price Yourself Fairly

Do your research on mobile car detailing rates in your area. And resist the temptation to charge below your market value. Clients are willing to pay more for a job well done, especially if you’re handling an expensive car. 

Here’s a tip: use factor-based pricing to make more money for your mobile car detailing business. Cars with pet stains and old paint are harder to clean than others. So, it’s okay to charge a bit more. This way, you earn the full value of your services. 

Is Starting a Mobile Car Detailing Business Worth It?

Absolutely! Mobile car detailing is a lot of hard work with endless rewards. Sometimes, you’ll spend over four hours working on a single car. But mobile car detailers can make six figures running their own business. So, it’s well worth it! 

The Bottom Line

You put a lot of time and effort into your mobile car detailing business. Why not go the extra mile on an effective marketing strategy? You can attract new clients with unique branding, a solid online presence, and strategic ad placements. 

PocketSuite will help you hold on to those clients. We have all the tools you need to run your business, including booking, payments, and contracts! 

No matter if you are just starting out with auto detailing or have a team of detailers working for you, you need  a booking software solution that’s as mobile and customizable as your business. If you are truly mobile, your booking software will need a place for clients to give you their address upon booking. 

Also in today’s work environment, the best booking software for mobile detailers will come in an app. Most mobile detailers will want to be able to manage their business easily on their phone between appointments because they are on-the-go most of the day. Detailers are certainly not a desk job so being able to manage your appointments from your smartphone is industry best practice. 

Setting Appointments as a Mobile Detailer

Setting appointments can seem simple, but at the same time also be a huge stress for business owners. As a mobile detailer, you are booking people for a wide array of services and will need to make sure you are staying well organized with your booking system. 

Many people start out using things like a simple Google calendar, paper planner, or even one of the many free softwares out there. The problem is, all of these can actually cause more chaos and confusion. When you are doing it all on your own, it can be hard to manage everything you need to do when it comes to your appointments. It’s important for your booking system to integrate with everything else you use including payments and even automated text reminders.

Here’s an example. Say you are using a paper planner or manual Google calendar. Your client calls you to schedule a full detail at their place of employment. You get them penciled in, then you take their deposit with whatever payment processor you are using. This may be the end of it, but sometimes it isn’t. Say that same client calls back to reschedule or even change the location where they will be. Now you have to go back to your planner, look at your available time, scratch out their name, try to move it somewhere else. 

If you are busy, you may not even have time to answer all of your calls. This client wants to book with you or reschedule, but you are busy with another appointment. What happens now? You either call them back and hope they answer, starting a game of phone tag, or you completely miss it all together and now you have lost out on that potential income. 

Getting your appointment setting to where it is an automatic process is KEY to success within the mobile detailing industry. It makes it easy on you, easy on your clients, and everyone wins. So when you are ready to go into your new business, it really is important to have good systems in place.

What Should a Good Mobile Detailing Booking Software Do?

So what should a great mobile detailing booking software look like? We are going to walk you through some of the most important things you need to have when choosing the best booking platform for your detailing business. 

Allow Your Clients to Easily Book You Online

First and foremost, you need to be able to have your clients easily book you online. A good software will allow you to make a beautiful custom booking page that you can share with your clients. This will allow them to see when you are available, pick the service and time they want you to come to them, input their address for the service, and book their appointment right there without ever having to play phone tag with you. 

They should also be able to go back in and reschedule themselves with your other available times if they need to. 

This takes a lot of stress off of you as a business owner and gives you the freedom to really focus on your services. 

Accept Credit Cards for Deposits and Automatic Payments

Another important thing that your booking software should do is accept credit cards for automatic deposits and payments. 

When clients book with you, you should be able to automatically prompt them to enter their payment information so that you get your deposit upfront. That way, if they happen to cancel last minute or no-call-no-show, you still have something to show for the time you should have been booked for. 

Once services are rendered, your booking app should be able to send that full payment invoice to the client and automatically charge their card on file. This is great for you since you will never have those awkward moments of handing your client a bill and asking for payment in person. It makes it easy for you, easy for the client, and again, everyone wins.

Send Confirmations and Notifications Automatically

One of the most, if not the most, important things your mobile detailing booking software should do is to send out confirmations and notifications to your clients automatically. 

Appointment reminders will help make sure that your client always remembers the exact time and location of their appointment. We have seen that simply by making sure you send automatic appointment reminders, your late clients and no-call-no-shows end up decreasing significantly!

Just think about it, some people are making appointments a month or so in advance. It is highly likely that some of these people will forget to write down their appointments and will then simply forget what day and time they are supposed to meet you for their appointment. Reminders will not only help you make sure your time is not wasted on clients that don’t show up, it will also help your clients remember their own appointments.

While it is possible for you to manually send out these reminder texts and emails, that will start to really dig into your time that would be better spent performing services. That’s why we recommend automatic reminders that you simply set up and let run on their own. You just pick the frequency that the reminders will be sent, and you are good to go!

What Mobile Detailing Booking Software Should I Use?

Now that you know what a great mobile detailing software should look like, now is the time to decide which one you should use. 

If you want everything we mentioned above, and so much more, then PocketSuite may be right for your mobile detailing business. 

PocketSuite has everything you need to run your  mobile detailing business right from your phone. Not only do we offer a mobile detailing specific version of the app, we also have an amazing customer service team who are ready and willing to help walk you through everything you need to get the most out of your booking software. If you are moving from one platform to PocketSuite, the team will help you transfer everything over so you don’t ever have to worry about missing out on appointments you already had scheduled. 

We know how important your time is, and we want to help you save time and make more money. We believe in our app so much that we offer a 30-day risk free trial ( you don’t even have to enter a credit card to get ALL of the benefits). During these 30 days, you can have welcome calls with our customer care team and get all of your questions answered, everything transferred over, and have everything set up just the way you want for your unique business. 

So what are you waiting for? Give PocketSuite a try for your mobile detailing business today and see how we can help you grow your business into an empire!

 Running a Mobile Detailing business means you have a lot of things to think about like pricing, scheduling, and organizing your products and that’s before you even get to your real job of detailing But all your detailing jobs will go smoother if you have the right business systems in place. 

One of the most important things to have in place is contracts. When you start taking on clients, it is pivotal to have contracts in place between you and your clients in order to assure that everyone is legally protected and terms of your services are clearly laid out in black and white.  Contracts also lower the risk of disputes, late cancellations and no-shows by making your expectations clear from the start. 

Why Do Mobile Detailers Need Client Contracts

The first reason a mobile detailer needs contracts in place with every client is security. Every business needs to have client contracts just in case, because you never know when you will run into someone who decides they don’t like the services you rendered and think they can either blast you online or, even worse, take you to court. After all, you practice your craft on very expensive vehicles so it’s important to explicitly state in a contract what you are and are not responsible for.Having a contract in place will protect you from legal ramifications and will, as stated earlier, lay out all expectations for the client in black and white. 

While it is rare that you will be sued as a detailer, it is possible. You are dealing with people’s vehicles, probably one of the most expensive possessions that they own, and it is up to you to protect yourself and your livelihood. 

The second reason to have contracts and waivers in place is business. A contract is a great place to lay out the terms of your cancellation policy and what a client owes you if they don’t show up for their appointment or cancel at the last minute.  Fewer no-shows will save you both time and money.

When Would a Mobile Detailer Need a Contract?

As a mobile detailer, you will be providing a range of services that help people get their vehicles sparkling clean. You are responsible for the exterior and interior of their vehicles. People tend to get very possessive of their vehicles, and for good reason. They are high value items owned by the client, and they want to make sure that nothing goes wrong. You also want to make sure that their personal property is properly taken care of, so having a contract in place is essential to protect everyone involved. 

Contracts and liability waivers are extremely important in your line of business. Let’s take this hypothetical example for instance: 

You show up to do a full detail on a client’s vehicle. They told you everything was ready for you so you get started. When you are done, they seem thrilled with the results and you go on your way.  A week later, you receive a nasty social media post about how you “ruined their car” because of some “negligence” on your part and now they want compensation. The exterior is scratched now, but you don’t remember seeing that at all when you were detailing the vehicle. 

You have no idea how what you did could have possibly damaged their car! You rack your brain but nothing is coming. You couldn’t have damaged the vehicle, but there is no contract or waiver in place that protects you from legal ramifications. 

While everyone would love to think that their clients would never do such a thing and that everyone would be honest, sadly that isn’t the case. Situations like the one above happen all too often, and that is why it is important that you protect yourself and your business. 

Along with having a contract and liability waiver in place, it is also important to take those before and after photos. You can even write into your contract that this is something you do with each and every detail. Not only would these photos give you excellent advertisement material, it also can come in handy if someone says that you damaged their car when it is clear in the photos that it was NOT you who did this. 

How to Set Up Mobile Detailing Client Contracts

We know you aren’t a legal expert, and you don’t have to be! We recommend having an attorney set up your client contracts and waivers for you. You can pay one fee and have them write up a generic contract that you can send to each and every client when they book with you. 

Here at PocketSuite, we want to not only make it easy to run your mobile detailing business, but also protect our pros and their businesses. That’s why we have a contract integration feature where you can easily send a contract to your clients when they book with you.

Within the PocketSuite app, you can add any contract or waiver that you want to use. It will automatically send your contract to your new clients to sign so you know you always have contracts and waivers in place when someone new books you. 

Contracts within the PocketSuite app also have the option to include dynamic fields. This means that all of these fields will update with specific client and transaction information for each and every unique client contract. 

They can be delivered by email or text message, depending on what you and your client prefer, and they will be formatted into a signable PDF. Clients can sign easily with their fingertip right from their smartphone! Making it easy on them and convenient for you. 

PocketSuite Makes Mobile Detailing Contracts Easy

No matter if you run a multi person detailing empire or you are a solopreneur running your mobile detailing business on your own, PocketSuite is here to help you run the best business possible. Along with all of our other personalized features for mobile detailers, we know that our contract feature will help you really take your business to the next level. 

If you are ready to try out PocketSuit for your mobile detailing business, you can try our 30 day risk free trial today, you don’t even have to enter a credit card number to get all the amazing features. Our customer service team is here to help you every step of the way. From setting up your booking page to importing your existing contracts, they will give you personalized one on one support with everything you need to make your business run smoothly so you can focus on giving people the clean and beautiful vehicles they deserve.

In an ever changing and fast paced world, there is often not enough time to maintain a balance between work, family, and a social life, let alone time to clean the house. As such, all fields of cleaning are rapidly expanding as time for cleaning is shrinking. Mobile detailing is no different.

The main job requirements of a mobile detailer are to:

• Analyze the proper cleaning method of the individual automobile
• Administrative duties
• Be familiar with the proper use of industry machinery
• Spot treatments
• Reduce allergens in the air of an automobile
• Cleaning both the inside and outside of the car
• Car polishing and waxing

There are specific government mandated regulations to becoming a mobile detailer. This may vary based on the type of business being conducted and for whom. As such, it is important to conduct research into each to find the best option for your career.

How Much do Mobile Detailers Earn?

The pay scale for a mobile detailers will vary depending on the qualifications of the professional, the location, hours worked, type of business and state regulations. On average, mobile detailers typically earn between $20,000 – $40,000 per year.

Resources to help in starting or expanding your Mobile Detailer career:

• Mobile Detailer Associations
• Mobile Detailer School and Certification
• Mobile Detailer Social Groups