I worked in a complete different industry (finance) and the same rules applied there. Charge what you are worth, dont be afraid to say no and don't barter down to 'what's your best price mate'. Great advice
Thanks mate. These are methods I applied to my business and I've never been so much better off for it 💪. If it helps just one person then it's totally worth it
I watch all epics videos and he definitely does help and gives so many great tips. Just hoping to grow my business more at this point. Thanks for the video.
Hello Dave, it's your Dad here, My car needs cleaning!!!! ("WHAT'S YOUR BEST PRICE") ? "DAVE" "DAVE" Are you still there son !!!?? 😂🤣😜. Brilliant well informed video. I know that it's taken you a lot of hard graft to get to where you are today. Cleaver people will listen, the others well that's there look out. Dad
This is 120% true. I am going to change my prices in the future as I am too cheap but I don’t want to be too expensive but enough to get through. Very good tips and ideas
Only started watching these videos like yesterday and this guy passes on legitimate info without all the hassle. Thankyou so much for the information you are providing
This helps so much I haven't started my detailing business yet but I was going to start off with a dirt cheap service and this has completely changed my game plan
Some great info. In the 30 odd years of being in this industry, I still have to fend off the 'something for nothing' brigade. The worst of all are traders, main dealers and mates. I have lost a lot of friends who seem to expect 'mates rates' and then, they send their mates round expecting the same. I might do a video about that one day, just to piss more people off 🤔 Rant over.
I see loads of adverts on Facebook for people offering car washing/valeting services and don't even advertise what their different levels of service or what processes they use ... Asking questions you either get totally blanked or find out they're using one bucket with a sponge and a shammy and charging you around £15-£20 for a basic wash and that's not even opening the doors to wipe the sills down
I love how you left out paint correction because me as a beginner it is overloading. Learning 1 step at a time! Ty for your consideration and effort in these videos !
Dave thank you for the helpful tips. I am always trying to learn new ways to improve my business and this video was a WHOPPER! I changed the wording and the services to simplify my service packages.
wow Erick it was really good to hear this. Today I had that issue doing a low-end detail for something that was completely destroyed and it was completely dissatisfying. Thank you for the pointers. Life saver.
Oh my god you mentioned the magic word for Vauxhall Zafira I had my baby for 16 years and she was OCD immaculate my kids were told that they would be thrown out of the car while it was moving in there anything or put Buggies on the seat newspaper on the floor when it was wet no eating crisps or sandwiches and definitely chocolate was banned I love that car when I sold it the guy who bought it off me smashed it up the very next day guess the baby didn't want to leave me as usual mate great video keep them coming
This is gold. I’m in the process of launching my detailing business and defining services and prices. I’d fallen fowl off offering to much in a package instead of reserving things for upsell. Thanks!!!
@@epicautomotivedetailing Thanks for the prompt reply it's very much appreciated ☺️. Do you have a price list and also whereabouts are you located? I'm in London (not sure if I'm too far from you 😁). Many thanks again
Fantastic video mate. I’ve been following you for a little while now and really appreciate all the content you’re releasing on TH-cam. Always looking out for your next video. Keep it up 👍
Thank you. I just love mixing it up. I know ideally just the business videos alone would do better but it's nice to add variety. Next video is out this weekend and it's a good one👌
I do a lot of what you say dont do, im scared to charge too much. Its hard when I cant afford to refuse work, BUT im going to implement some of your strategy. It sound like you hit the nail on the head
How very true! I think one of my worst experiences was with a company that wanted monthly interior & exterior maintenance valets. I specifically stated that it was monthly for the car that was registered with the workers at the company. They began bringing in relatives cars, thinking I would charge the same. When the director asked me why I was charging more, I told them to refer to my terms on the contract as mentioned earlier. One thing I can add (unless you mentioned it and I wasn't paying attention) is that the client should remove any large items from the boot (trunk in the USA) as there's nothing more to waste your time than someone who's left boxes of flat pack furniture in there! I once had a drum kit left in the boot of a car. They refused to move it, told me not to do the boot, and subsequently moaned that I hadn't done the car properly!!! Keep up the good work 👍 😊
Love your videos I have been valeting since i left school now been doing it 14 years love it.. I have allso got very strict on my prices recently as i feel iam worth it i use to be very slack when i started !! ! And I too hate it when people say I can get it done cheaper.. I say we'll stick to who you use then ..🤣 I too now offer ceramics dam good earner got another 4 lined up from recommendations. helps when you have the right clients!! Keep the videos coming
Cheers mate. There are bad moments to go along with the good like anything but it's not too bad to be honest. My latest videos are more insights into my business life and about my clients etc
@@epicautomotivedetailing after 23 years starting a new career/life is a scary step but I want to be the master of my own destiny. I'm not sure my area is as affluent as yours but I'll get there. I'm picking off yours videos and making alot of notes. Keep them coming, I love the simple approach to the information.
@@StuartA24 honestly if you have that feeling inside that the universe is pulling you towards that then follow your instinct. I'll try share more real life experiences if it helps
Hiya, I’m a big fan of the Epic Car Show, I love watching all your videos, you do a great job of them. This one I think was amazing. I have a small chauffeur business, and dew to the pandemic, none of my clients were coming to the UK, I very nearly started up a valeting/detailing business. I am a car cleaning nut, and have been for 36 years since I owned my first car,. I m not a weekend warrior, I would class myself as a detailer. All my friends and family said you won’t make any money as I’m too finicky. This video has taught me a lot. Thankfully my business is coming back slowly, but I will carry on enjoying your videos. Regards KP
Absolutely spot on with what you say ! I think we have all had disasters and learned lessons, mine was a farm pickup that almost killed me ..Never again ! Love your channel keep up the good work !
Thanks Matt. I am doing more business related content. Currently breaking the channel up so I have another channel just for how to videos and this one will be slightly different
You sir , you rock 🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻 I hadn’t thought about this so into depth , just today I was creating my packages and I ran into this video at the right moment . Definitely a life saver 🙌🙌
Hi just subscribed to your channel and I’m Liking how you explain in-depth how to make that extra money,I’m running my business as a detailer and I’ve been through the same process only a year ago, I was trying to get more customers and charging them not a lot of money,now I’ve done the same process you’ve done and funny enough I’m getting more customers knocking at my door... Keep up the good work can’t wait to see more videos in the future.
That's brilliant mate well done. People don't always believe me when I say jack the prices up but it's been proven so many times that the formula works 💪
Great video really informative its given me a lot of information to take away. My cheapest inside and out is £20 and normally takes me 2 hours but the prices in my area are so low 😩and given im not mobile at the moment its hard to explain to customers and justify higher prices. Thanks again for the video
Brilliant insights - I’m a hobby weekend warrior and have often wondered about going professional on the side or in retirement (which is not far off) but had no idea how to position pricing and earn a living when I know I easily spend 4-5 hours on an inside and outside valet myself on my own cars yet see people charging £20 for a ‘basic valet’ which look suspiciously like the ton of work I put into my cars. This has helped loads - many thanks.
@@epicautomotivedetailing Yes, did some research last year to establish what my best / ideal clients would be prepared to pay per hour. I was pleasantly surprised they all said more than I was originally charging 😎
Great video mate i changed my prices after watching this video £100 full outside valet and same for full inside valet then told them maintenance wash and full inside £150 for regular clients worked so far but you always get the ones that say can you give me discount first time around lol NO SORRY you get the discount once you had the full inside and outside to start with genuine people ok with that 🤔👍😉👌
@@brett7220 cleaning a car isn't hard in my opinion. There are hard jobs out there and I'd say washing or valeting a car isn't one of them. A lawyer, engineer, doctor, architect are hard jobs for me (of course depending on where or who they work for). Car valeting is a time consuming, and attention to detail is also very important though. A lot of the work is done by good quality products and equipment with a lot of extra care and time. It's not even a licensed profession. However most people don't want to wash cars. It could be because they don't enjoy it or they don't value the car so much so a quick £15 in and out will do. Car valeters do an amazing job at getting a car as spotless as possible though.
Brilliant Video Dave, excellent tips and I think my prices need to go up after watching this because I must have MUG written on my head after some of the cars I've had to clean for less than £50. 😣
This video is great and has help me more than you will know I am 20 and am really trying to kick on with my own business so this has been a huge help to me. Keep it coming mate!!! 👍🏻
Great vid. Im in a rural area, its very hard to charge a higher price, especially when there is a well known cheap hand car wash which people will use run my price down if I over shoot. Im 15 so its not as big of a deal, but this video made me feel a lot better as you talked about there variables, so thank you.
@@epicautomotivedetailing It really does/did. It's also just me doing the details as well so that whole interior bit made so much sense. You're great at what you do buddy and always a pleasure watching the videos. Now for me to get better at advertising my services etc🤦♂️ Working on my instagram page will help me as well I'm sure. Glad I follow you 🙂
Hi Random, im on insta and I think alot of us who watched this vid are in the same boat. I try and support other valeters o ther and they do likewise. As Dave often says there are plenty of cars for everyone so lets uport each other. Best of luck
And this is why i watch your videos mate awsome tips mate just my area has alot of car washes and people that dont want to pay alot so at the min my prices are low but this video has really shiwn me some good pointers so thankyou
Think you have to try a few out and see what you can do in terms of how much of the vehicle you can clean in one day. For me I used to charge 500 for horse lorrys
Charge more mate. It's not a job that everyone can do. You got something that nobody else is doing. Think about that. If you charge £500 you could pay another 2 guys to help at £100 each and still be better off without the hard graft
@@davidjameskelly1804 look at it this way, Horsey people have plenty of money. These machines are not cheap so if you really push a vip service they will all tell their horse friends and you got a good gig. I used to do a few for the POLO CLUBS and i made good money but in the end i didnt want to do them after a while
G'Day from Australia, down-under! Loving ALL your videos mate and have just gotten into this car-detailing world. Currently working at a Car-Wash facility & having to balance between quality (I only know how to do 100%) and time (boss reckons exterior & interior can be done in under 30 mins) and the quality of jobs (all really horrid, ratty cars which have never been done in their lifetimes. But still loving my job, and looking forward to going out on my own someday, when I'm ready!
Hello mate, 30 mins is a struggle for the fittest of human beings. Some dirty cars take the whole day. If your boss says it takes 30 mins just say to him (show me) lol
Been detailing family and friends for a few years now, make enough to upgrade my equipment and keep me stocked. Done a few luxury cars on recommendations. I love detailing, have huge pride in my work and have often wondered ‘could I do this for a living’ I’m in a position to buy a van, kit it out and get a website up and running. Follow lots of USA detailers but now I’ve found you and have to say really pleased I did, informative no bullshit content and grateful you are happy to share your knowledge. Your channel will really help me make the decision if I want to make the jump, invest and get out there. Just wondering, this particular video made a year ago, I assume your prices will raise inline with UK inflation and the huge cost of living increases we are facing?
Thanks Brad, yeah my prices went up a lot. Funnily enough my regular clients became more regular. The fuel was the biggest issue. Chemical costs didn't really go up much
Maaaaate. This video has been needed...I am currently doing some discounted prices at the moment just to get my fb reviews for my page but the type of clients you have are the ones I want. Good point on the not being scared to turn people away...I was a bit fearful at first but got better at it and I am starting to understand my worth and what I provide. Top video again....deffos in my top 5 car cleaning youtubers
Top 5? Not Top 1? How dare you 😂 Honestly i have been there and done that when it comes to not having the courage to charge more. I mean im talking about way back in the day but as every year passes you get more confident and once you start seeing what your worth it soon becomes easier. keep on grafting mate 🙏
@@epicautomotivedetailing the top 5 rotates mate...ever flowing haha. But you are up there with Ammo, detailing geek, guru and Chicago auto...kind of like the premier league haha. As for charging I just keep saying to myself this is a business and I have a skill....if they want it, they can pay it. If not then they can go to the drive through 'hand wash' and have them f**k their car up.
I'm a beginner and I've mot started cleaning cars for a living yet and barely a weekend warrior but I'm getting all my chemicals in slowly (nearly done mi d you) have all the equipment (only have a karcher K5 for now though but hopefully it will do) and will be working from my Audi Q5........only recently found your channel and it is very informative so I'm definitely subscribing and watching your videos before I go out in to the big bad detailing world. 😂
Your spot on with only offering the 4 main services but that'll always pend on the area you live in. The amount of time we all here i can get it cheap else where or thats more than i want to pay or can i get a discount for 2 cars ehh no you can f**k off price is the price. The amount of times ive said just go down the rd. The other part i often here is ohh need to wait 2 - 3 wks beforei can book in (ya thats what i said 2 -3wks) 😆. Me. Yes I'm this busy for a reason. Lovehow you seem to nail these video's, info and tips especially for the new start outs 👏 David
Brilliant advice 👏I've returned to this work ,after along absence part time, I definitely needed to simplify things and undervalued my work ,thanks for highlighting the value and true worth of valeting
What i dont miss is when you go to somones work place they take ages to sort you power. Other staff asking how much you charge. Can you bosh mine over or lend me the jet wash
How long should a maintenance valet take on small/medium/large cars? By the way, love your videos! Very down to earth, straight to the point ; just no BS really. Keep up the good work.
Thanks mate varies on so many factors like fitness, organisation skills, weather... It goes on... For me I spend an hour and a half to do a good job. But I am slowing down now. It's too hot here at the moment so the heat is a massive problem
@@epicautomotivedetailing absolutely mate, I've got a couple of similar priced services Could you do a video on how you communicate with customers when they're asking for quotes etc, I don't know if I should bombard them with the process details or not
While, excellent video. I've charged pretty light for coworkers and their friends . But it's a lot of work. And this is just a side job I kind of enjoy actually. I use brain power at work and make the same hourly I did so I'm not depending on this detailing job to support me at all. So I might as well get my prices up, do higher class people and cars, And not sweat it
Love watching your videos. As you know I am just starting out so learning new tips all the time. I went to do my mates car to build a profile I just asked him to pay something for some of the products I use ie £30. All I did was a minni valet but he was so impressed with that it turned into a full valet and he then put a price on it himself and paid £90 that went straight back on turtle was products. I used as recommend by your self the new turtle Wax ceramic grapheme past wax for the first time and wow I was impressed.
as you may notice, I'm working my way through all your videos ... So, talking of carpets: Can you make a video on a sort of carpet hit - parade? What I mean: Which makes are the best (easiest to clean), and which ones are the worst?? Like, going from #1 Bentley to - maybe #15 Vauxhall ??? Many of us would probably really appreciate that !!! Thanks in advance !!!
I charge 35 for small car interior valet exterior valet is set at 35 as well, this is only for small cars... my prices go up per vehicle size, which means that medium would be 50 and large 65, premium valets come at 100 pounds starting which is interior and exterior for small cars then it goes up per size again small to large - 100 for small, 140 for large. makes more sense of getting the premium valet as it's more cost-effective for the customer.
Hi Dave, interesting video,prices have changed since the late 90s when I was valeting not detailing,its what the customer wants and how much it will cost them.
I enjoyed this vid.... im thinking of starting a service, and found this good advice. I think as someone who regularly cleans 4 cars, things like pre-wash, fall out/decon i think is part of the standard process of cleaning... so to hear you charge extra for this is interesting! But has this to do with the fact that most Fallout removers are in small bottles that dont last and are expensive? Many products out there that i use are great, including the ones you use, but some arent value for money. They are expensive and last minimal time. If i can get a pro product in a 5L bottle at not much more than a 1L , then im going with the 5. But so many are 1L! Bilt Hamber Surfex HD is a classic point. Lasts forever and is exceptionally good at so many things. I just got a bottle of Koch Khemie Green Star... another great product but it will last no where as long. Things like dedicated wheel cleaners... they all dont last very long. Ive used Korrosol in the past (stinks) lasted longer than KK Magic Wheel Cleaner. Also for your maintenance washes , do they tend to be more hands off, like applying a wash/wax like KK Nano Magic in a lance, and a full valet you would be more hands on with a hand/machine polish, cause you are charging more money. Thats how i see it.. more personal, more money. I need to try and get all my kit in the back of my Kia Sportage... should have plenty of room :)
Hi Steve within the next few weeks ill be releasing a new video highlighting these bits as the market has changed a little since this video came out in the UK. So i did another video about the standard maintenance valet which covers what to do when you dont have fallout removers etc. The thumbnail says (everything you need to know) and its got a jag on it too where im holding a grit guard. That will show you how i started back in the day with the basics
@@epicautomotivedetailing thanks I’ll check it out! I just got myself some KKD products as I am out of shampoo and glass cleaner so looking forward to trying these. Good price point!
Great video Dave and a in depth look at lower market valeting materials. I suppose you pay for what you get TBH... I’ll be honest I’d be never use cheap products you never know what will happen to the vehicle your cleaning once you apply the product. Good to see your old man helping you bless him..😂👍
Hi Dave, not sure if you're still responding on old videos. First, thanks for making such great content and sharing your tips with the world. On the Full Exterior Valet, you offer a full hand polish as part of the price? Does that not take ages? I am thinking of starting up a service like this and assumed a finish with a QD would bring out enough shine and protection on its own.
Hello Tim thanks for your kind words. If you try infinity wax light or dark glaze you will be amazed how quickly you can get around a car as there is no powder. I'm re making every video in the new studio as of next week so this is one of videos coming soon as my thoughts have slightly changed now to speed up the process
Hi mate, been following you for quite some time and I’m after a little bit of advice. My next door neighbour/mate has asked me to do his car. He wants basically the full works done on it but excluding a polish. So, inside (leather) and out, wheels. All treated, clay bar’d and ceramic sprayed. Windows polished and coated with Glaco rain repellent. The car is neglected. Dry mud inside (not excessively) but also taken down country lanes for the school run. First question, how long would this TYPICALLY take? Secondly, what should I charge approximately? It’s great to see you progressing on YT with your content and I’m back working my way through your videos again Regards, Joe
@@epicautomotivedetailing Ι hear if you do it properly you won't scratch. I mean there is this big company 'dropless' already doing it in London. My problem I will need to set up an LTD to have good insurance, right?
You're so right on pricing 90 % of customers don't realise how much effort goes into this profession. Keep up your brilliant videos cheers mark
I worked in a complete different industry (finance) and the same rules applied there. Charge what you are worth, dont be afraid to say no and don't barter down to 'what's your best price mate'. Great advice
Great tips and points! Hope this helps the future generation of aspiring detailers!
Thanks mate. These are methods I applied to my business and I've never been so much better off for it 💪. If it helps just one person then it's totally worth it
I watch all epics videos and he definitely does help and gives so many great tips.
Just hoping to grow my business more at this point.
Thanks for the video.
@Mini Synth Collective thank you, appreciate the kind words.
Yum products om back @yumcars
Very helpful video I just started mobile valet and detailing with my mate hopefully we can put it to use 💪🏼
Hello Dave, it's your Dad here, My car needs cleaning!!!! ("WHAT'S YOUR BEST PRICE") ? "DAVE" "DAVE" Are you still there son !!!?? 😂🤣😜. Brilliant well informed video. I know that it's taken you a lot of hard graft to get to where you are today. Cleaver people will listen, the others well that's there look out. Dad
Hi Dad, you know I can't drop my prices for family 😂
It's ok son. Edd Sheeran gonna do it he's even going to get me a KFC half way through.🤣😂🤣😂😜
Spot on, take any industry- hiring professionals to do any kind of high quality work is expensive, detailing is no different.
thank you
This is 120% true. I am going to change my prices in the future as I am too cheap but I don’t want to be too expensive but enough to get through. Very good tips and ideas
Thanks for watching mate. Adjust,test ,then adjust again till you find what works for you 💪
Only started watching these videos like yesterday and this guy passes on legitimate info without all the hassle. Thankyou so much for the information you are providing
Thanks very much
This helps so much I haven't started my detailing business yet but I was going to start off with a dirt cheap service and this has completely changed my game plan
Thank you. The prices should go up from these now to coincide with inflation
My mate has started on his own hes got 30 years experience and he taken the plunge I have told him to watch your channel for tips about prices
Thank you that's very kind I got loads of business videos coming
Some great info. In the 30 odd years of being in this industry, I still have to fend off the 'something for nothing' brigade. The worst of all are traders, main dealers and mates. I have lost a lot of friends who seem to expect 'mates rates' and then, they send their mates round expecting the same.
I might do a video about that one day, just to piss more people off 🤔
Rant over.
Yeah my family always want me to clean there cars but I'm so busy and when I'm off I like to relax (well try to) sometimes you need a break
I see loads of adverts on Facebook for people offering car washing/valeting services and don't even advertise what their different levels of service or what processes they use ... Asking questions you either get totally blanked or find out they're using one bucket with a sponge and a shammy and charging you around £15-£20 for a basic wash and that's not even opening the doors to wipe the sills down
I love how you left out paint correction because me as a beginner it is overloading. Learning 1 step at a time! Ty for your consideration and effort in these videos !
Thank you for noticing. ive actually got newer better videos coming similar as this was a long time ago I filmed this
Dave thank you for the helpful tips. I am always trying to learn new ways to improve my business and this video was a WHOPPER! I changed the wording and the services to simplify my service packages.
I'm not in the business but this was a fascinating video with great insights into human nature.
Thanks Peter 🙏
wow Erick it was really good to hear this. Today I had that issue doing a low-end detail for something that was completely destroyed and it was completely dissatisfying. Thank you for the pointers. Life saver.
Thanks very much 🙏
Your advice is bang on, it goes for most trades. The last bit about the riff raff calling up is so true, great video.
Thanks mate that's kind
@@epicautomotivedetailing you’re welcome mate, thanks for putting so much effort in to your videos
@@fastlane2914 thanks for noticing. Takes days to make a 5 min video
Oh my god you mentioned the magic word for Vauxhall Zafira I had my baby for 16 years and she was OCD immaculate my kids were told that they would be thrown out of the car while it was moving in there anything or put Buggies on the seat newspaper on the floor when it was wet no eating crisps or sandwiches and definitely chocolate was banned I love that car when I sold it the guy who bought it off me smashed it up the very next day guess the baby didn't want to leave me as usual mate great video keep them coming
Argh man sorry to pick on the zafira. In car cleaning terms it's the worst car to clean 😬.
@@epicautomotivedetailing looking forward to cleaning one tomorrow, seen it at the weekend and it’s just stereotypical Zafira levels of dirt 🤣🤣
This is gold. I’m in the process of launching my detailing business and defining services and prices. I’d fallen fowl off offering to much in a package instead of reserving things for upsell. Thanks!!!
Thanks Alan it will 100% help you. It's easy to offer extras because the customer will always want more
@@epicautomotivedetailing Love watching your videos. Dave do you offer detailing services for the public? Many thanks in advance. Sub
@@subpurkayastha hello yes I do my friend
@@epicautomotivedetailing Thanks for the prompt reply it's very much appreciated ☺️. Do you have a price list and also whereabouts are you located? I'm in London (not sure if I'm too far from you 😁). Many thanks again
Fantastic video mate. I’ve been following you for a little while now and really appreciate all the content you’re releasing on TH-cam.
Always looking out for your next video.
Keep it up 👍
Thank you. I just love mixing it up. I know ideally just the business videos alone would do better but it's nice to add variety. Next video is out this weekend and it's a good one👌
Man glad I found your channel. You're a big help for us newbies in these field. Godbless sir!
Thanks very much. You will love my new channel it's called (how to detail) links on my channel homepage 🙏
I do a lot of what you say dont do, im scared to charge too much. Its hard when I cant afford to refuse work, BUT im going to implement some of your strategy. It sound like you hit the nail on the head
Try it with your worst client. That way you have more confidence and practice
How very true! I think one of my worst experiences was with a company that wanted monthly interior & exterior maintenance valets. I specifically stated that it was monthly for the car that was registered with the workers at the company. They began bringing in relatives cars, thinking I would charge the same. When the director asked me why I was charging more, I told them to refer to my terms on the contract as mentioned earlier.
One thing I can add (unless you mentioned it and I wasn't paying attention) is that the client should remove any large items from the boot (trunk in the USA) as there's nothing more to waste your time than someone who's left boxes of flat pack furniture in there! I once had a drum kit left in the boot of a car. They refused to move it, told me not to do the boot, and subsequently moaned that I hadn't done the car properly!!! Keep up the good work 👍 😊
Yeah some people really do push things and then get funny when you charge more. Thanks for watching and commenting 🙏
Thank you for this. The perspective of quality clients vs price is something I never really thought about till now.
Thank you
Love your videos I have been valeting since i left school now been doing it 14 years love it.. I have allso got very strict on my prices recently as i feel iam worth it i use to be very slack when i started !! ! And I too hate it when people say I can get it done cheaper.. I say we'll stick to who you use then ..🤣 I too now offer ceramics dam good earner got another 4 lined up from recommendations. helps when you have the right clients!! Keep the videos coming
Thanks mate. Yeah don't drop those prices Esso and Bp don't drop fuel prices
Mega video! As someone looking at entertaining into the industry after a long stint in the military this has made me rethink my approach. Thank you
Cheers mate. There are bad moments to go along with the good like anything but it's not too bad to be honest. My latest videos are more insights into my business life and about my clients etc
@@epicautomotivedetailing after 23 years starting a new career/life is a scary step but I want to be the master of my own destiny. I'm not sure my area is as affluent as yours but I'll get there. I'm picking off yours videos and making alot of notes. Keep them coming, I love the simple approach to the information.
@@StuartA24 honestly if you have that feeling inside that the universe is pulling you towards that then follow your instinct. I'll try share more real life experiences if it helps
Hiya, I’m a big fan of the Epic Car Show, I love watching all your videos, you do a great job of them. This one I think was amazing. I have a small chauffeur business, and dew to the pandemic, none of my clients were coming to the UK, I very nearly started up a valeting/detailing business. I am a car cleaning nut, and have been for 36 years since I owned my first car,. I m not a weekend warrior, I would class myself as a detailer. All my friends and family said you won’t make any money as I’m too finicky. This video has taught me a lot. Thankfully my business is coming back slowly, but I will carry on enjoying your videos.
Regards KP
Absolutely spot on with what you say ! I think we have all had disasters and learned lessons, mine was a farm pickup that almost killed me ..Never again ! Love your channel keep up the good work !
Thanks Matt. I am doing more business related content. Currently breaking the channel up so I have another channel just for how to videos and this one will be slightly different
Really appreciate this video. Great!
Thank you
You sir , you rock 🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻
I hadn’t thought about this so into depth , just today I was creating my packages and I ran into this video at the right moment . Definitely a life saver 🙌🙌
Thanks mate. Don't forget prices have gone up since this video was launched so don't underprice yourself
Hi just subscribed to your channel and I’m Liking how you explain in-depth how to make that extra money,I’m running my business as a detailer and I’ve been through the same process only a year ago, I was trying to get more customers and charging them not a lot of money,now I’ve done the same process you’ve done and funny enough I’m getting more customers knocking at my door...
Keep up the good work can’t wait to see more videos in the future.
That's brilliant mate well done. People don't always believe me when I say jack the prices up but it's been proven so many times that the formula works 💪
Great video really informative its given me a lot of information to take away. My cheapest inside and out is £20 and normally takes me 2 hours but the prices in my area are so low 😩and given im not mobile at the moment its hard to explain to customers and justify higher prices. Thanks again for the video
Hi mate, experiment new ideas with adjusting prices try raising slightly and keep it simple. Definitely follow up on upsells
Thank you for your channel ! ❤
Brilliant insights - I’m a hobby weekend warrior and have often wondered about going professional on the side or in retirement (which is not far off) but had no idea how to position pricing and earn a living when I know I easily spend 4-5 hours on an inside and outside valet myself on my own cars yet see people charging £20 for a ‘basic valet’ which look suspiciously like the ton of work I put into my cars. This has helped loads - many thanks.
Thank you mate appreciate it
Thanks for this video Dave, it's helped me clarify my pricing.
Thank you. I'd say you need to increase prices more as this is older now this video
@@epicautomotivedetailing Yes, did some research last year to establish what my best / ideal clients would be prepared to pay per hour. I was pleasantly surprised they all said more than I was originally charging 😎
Your videos are so good, Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Keep up the great work!
Thanks so much
Great video mate i changed my prices after watching this video £100 full outside valet and same for full inside valet then told them maintenance wash and full inside £150 for regular clients worked so far but you always get the ones that say can you give me discount first time around lol NO SORRY you get the discount once you had the full inside and outside to start with genuine people ok with that 🤔👍😉👌
Nice one well done mate
Awesome content once again. You came from nothing to build it up. massive respect!
Thanks mate
Thst was a very good video with bulletproof advice. Well done
Thank you so much mate
Been valeting 30 years for a garage I’ve made salesman very rich and they still reckon cleaning cars is easy great channel
Thanks Steve :)
Cleaning cars is easy. Lol
Give them the equipment etc tell em to crack on while you sit there a watch.
Bet they start to sweat.
@@brett7220 cleaning a car isn't hard in my opinion. There are hard jobs out there and I'd say washing or valeting a car isn't one of them. A lawyer, engineer, doctor, architect are hard jobs for me (of course depending on where or who they work for).
Car valeting is a time consuming, and attention to detail is also very important though. A lot of the work is done by good quality products and equipment with a lot of extra care and time.
It's not even a licensed profession.
However most people don't want to wash cars. It could be because they don't enjoy it or they don't value the car so much so a quick £15 in and out will do.
Car valeters do an amazing job at getting a car as spotless as possible though.
Brilliant Video Dave, excellent tips and I think my prices need to go up after watching this because I must have MUG written on my head after some of the cars I've had to clean for less than £50. 😣
Cheers mate. You got to get what you're worth
This video is great and has help me more than you will know I am 20 and am really trying to kick on with my own business so this has been a huge help to me. Keep it coming mate!!! 👍🏻
Nice one mate. Thank you
Great vid. Im in a rural area, its very hard to charge a higher price, especially when there is a well known cheap hand car wash which people will use run my price down if I over shoot. Im 15 so its not as big of a deal, but this video made me feel a lot better as you talked about there variables, so thank you.
Gain experience, learn the skills, become the very best you can be and they will soon want to use the best 💪
@@epicautomotivedetailing Very true, I need to just keep working, getting as much experience as possible. Thanks mate means a lot
i changed my whole structure because of this video, thank you!
Thanks very much my friend
You're awesome and this,this was highly appreciated.
Enough said,so here🍻
Thanks so much. Hope it gives you some real insight to how I do things
@@epicautomotivedetailing It really does/did. It's also just me doing the details as well so that whole interior bit made so much sense.
You're great at what you do buddy and always a pleasure watching the videos. Now for me to get better at advertising my services etc🤦♂️
Working on my instagram page will help me as well I'm sure.
Glad I follow you 🙂
Hi Random, im on insta and I think alot of us who watched this vid are in the same boat. I try and support other valeters o ther and they do likewise. As Dave often says there are plenty of cars for everyone so lets uport each other. Best of luck
@@andyprior6099 Thank you,I agree and very kind of you. Same for you buddy
Great video. I’m just starting out and your videos have been such a help.
And this is why i watch your videos mate awsome tips mate just my area has alot of car washes and people that dont want to pay alot so at the min my prices are low but this video has really shiwn me some good pointers so thankyou
Thanks very much. You can adjust your own way to your own needs but I had been there and done that and learnt along the way so happy to share it
Merry Christmas 🎉
Have a merry Christmas too 🎄
@epicautomotivedetailing happy New year Dave have a great one 😀
Great Vid Dave, hopefully people take this on board and have success with it. I use the formula Time, Cost & Quality.
Thanks Apex appreciate it mate
I'm getting into the detailing business with absolutely no knowledge. I will report back in one year on my progress.
Good luck my friend
Channel has been growing like crazy congrats bro. Here at 4k
Thanks mate it's getting there
@@epicautomotivedetailing your work ethic is sheer to none. Keep the helpful tips coming much appreciated 🤙🏻
Absolutely bang on Fantastic advice I’ve been fretting about what I charge bearing in mind I’m cleaning Horse trailers,boxes and 4x4s
Think you have to try a few out and see what you can do in terms of how much of the vehicle you can clean in one day. For me I used to charge 500 for horse lorrys
@@epicautomotivedetailing I’m charging £200 for a 7.5 ton depending on how dirty they are takes nearly a full day Thanks again Dave your a legend 👍🏼
Charge more mate. It's not a job that everyone can do. You got something that nobody else is doing. Think about that. If you charge £500 you could pay another 2 guys to help at £100 each and still be better off without the hard graft
@@davidjameskelly1804 look at it this way, Horsey people have plenty of money. These machines are not cheap so if you really push a vip service they will all tell their horse friends and you got a good gig. I used to do a few for the POLO CLUBS and i made good money but in the end i didnt want to do them after a while
Thank you very much this has been very helpful...all the way from SA
Thank you
G'Day from Australia, down-under!
Loving ALL your videos mate and have just gotten into this car-detailing world.
Currently working at a Car-Wash facility & having to balance between quality (I only know how to do 100%) and time (boss reckons exterior & interior can be done in under 30 mins) and the quality of jobs (all really horrid, ratty cars which have never been done in their lifetimes.
But still loving my job, and looking forward to going out on my own someday, when I'm ready!
Hello mate, 30 mins is a struggle for the fittest of human beings. Some dirty cars take the whole day. If your boss says it takes 30 mins just say to him (show me) lol
Excellent video, thank you!
Glad it was helpful! thanks for watching
Brilliant tips and ideas thank you
Thanks mate
@@epicautomotivedetailing thank you mate great videos what size is your water tank and how many cars would you get from it please
@@Jk-wi1ij to be honest I have no idea lol. O bought it when I first started 15 years ago I'll find out though and update my next equipment video
@@epicautomotivedetailing hahaha no probs atal mate thank you
Wow I bloody loved this video!! Straight to the point and filled with great tips and knowledge!!
Thanks brother 🙏 appreciate it mate
Been detailing family and friends for a few years now, make enough to upgrade my equipment and keep me stocked. Done a few luxury cars on recommendations. I love detailing, have huge pride in my work and have often wondered ‘could I do this for a living’ I’m in a position to buy a van, kit it out and get a website up and running. Follow lots of USA detailers but now I’ve found you and have to say really pleased I did, informative no bullshit content and grateful you are happy to share your knowledge. Your channel will really help me make the decision if I want to make the jump, invest and get out there. Just wondering, this particular video made a year ago, I assume your prices will raise inline with UK inflation and the huge cost of living increases we are facing?
Thanks Brad, yeah my prices went up a lot. Funnily enough my regular clients became more regular. The fuel was the biggest issue. Chemical costs didn't really go up much
@@epicautomotivedetailing what’s your website address please…there’s a few calling themselves Epic 🤔
@@bradford6201 lol yeah I noticed my main epic one is epiccarshow.co.uk
Great genuine advice💯
Thanks very much 🙏🙏
Great vlog, this will help people no end....Cheers mate
Thanks mate
Loved this advice mate
Thanks mate appreciate the kind words
200%agree!!
Thank you. Welcome to the channel 🙏🙏🙏
I love your videos i will recommend to some of my friends keep up the good work🙏🙏
Thanks mate
Great tips and awesome vid as usual
Thanks Kam 🙏
Maaaaate. This video has been needed...I am currently doing some discounted prices at the moment just to get my fb reviews for my page but the type of clients you have are the ones I want.
Good point on the not being scared to turn people away...I was a bit fearful at first but got better at it and I am starting to understand my worth and what I provide.
Top video again....deffos in my top 5 car cleaning youtubers
Top 5? Not Top 1? How dare you 😂 Honestly i have been there and done that when it comes to not having the courage to charge more. I mean im talking about way back in the day but as every year passes you get more confident and once you start seeing what your worth it soon becomes easier. keep on grafting mate 🙏
@@epicautomotivedetailing the top 5 rotates mate...ever flowing haha. But you are up there with Ammo, detailing geek, guru and Chicago auto...kind of like the premier league haha.
As for charging I just keep saying to myself this is a business and I have a skill....if they want it, they can pay it. If not then they can go to the drive through 'hand wash' and have them f**k their car up.
Epic video!! Tons of truth!! 👊🏻
Thanks mate 😃
Great advices, nice job.
Thanks mate
Great insight mate, really good video!👍🏻
Thanks Rob 🙏
Hi mate great vids. My wheel cleans take nearly two hours. That's maintenance wheel cleans
Hiya is that including set up time prior to cleaning?
@@epicautomotivedetailing it takes a good 10 mins a wheel. I'm very thorough
Solid information, thanks for sharing that valuable information 🙏🙏
Great vid, great information, thanks.
Cheers Simon
I'm a beginner and I've mot started cleaning cars for a living yet and barely a weekend warrior but I'm getting all my chemicals in slowly (nearly done mi d you) have all the equipment (only have a karcher K5 for now though but hopefully it will do) and will be working from my Audi Q5........only recently found your channel and it is very informative so I'm definitely subscribing and watching your videos before I go out in to the big bad detailing world. 😂
You can do it! brilliant stuff
Your spot on with only offering the 4 main services but that'll always pend on the area you live in.
The amount of time we all here i can get it cheap else where or thats more than i want to pay or can i get a discount for 2 cars ehh no you can f**k off price is the price. The amount of times ive said just go down the rd.
The other part i often here is ohh need to wait 2 - 3 wks beforei can book in (ya thats what i said 2 -3wks) 😆.
Me. Yes I'm this busy for a reason.
Lovehow you seem to nail these video's, info and tips especially for the new start outs 👏
David
Great video , glad im on the correct price in my area and providing only 3 services
Thanks Mate Yes keep it simple
Brilliant advice 👏I've returned to this work ,after along absence part time, I definitely needed to simplify things and undervalued my work ,thanks for highlighting the value and true worth of valeting
Thanks Gary, valeters don't get enough respect these days unfortunately and I really want the world to see how hard we work
Great advice, went a similar way with my pricing and it transformed things for me, much more enjoyable
Brilliant love that. Few people have done the same thing and they happier now than ever
Thank you Dave for this video, this has helped so much!
Nice one glad to hear it
Really great video, what you said is 100% true, specially in London it's tuff
Thank you 🙏
What i dont miss is when you go to somones work place they take ages to sort you power. Other staff asking how much you charge. Can you bosh mine over or lend me the jet wash
This video is brilliant.
Thank you very much
How long should a maintenance valet take on small/medium/large cars? By the way, love your videos! Very down to earth, straight to the point ; just no BS really. Keep up the good work.
Thanks mate varies on so many factors like fitness, organisation skills, weather... It goes on... For me I spend an hour and a half to do a good job. But I am slowing down now. It's too hot here at the moment so the heat is a massive problem
Great informative video Dave, will definitely be switching up my services and getting rid of the basic ones!
Nice one. Adjust to your own needs and bare in mind my prices are based on my area so it can fluctuate
@@epicautomotivedetailing absolutely mate, I've got a couple of similar priced services
Could you do a video on how you communicate with customers when they're asking for quotes etc, I don't know if I should bombard them with the process details or not
While, excellent video. I've charged pretty light for coworkers and their friends . But it's a lot of work. And this is just a side job I kind of enjoy actually. I use brain power at work and make the same hourly I did so I'm not depending on this detailing job to support me at all. So I might as well get my prices up, do higher class people and cars, And not sweat it
Nice one mate. I hardly do my families cars now.
Love watching your videos. As you know I am just starting out so learning new tips all the time. I went to do my mates car to build a profile I just asked him to pay something for some of the products I use ie £30. All I did was a minni valet but he was so impressed with that it turned into a full valet and he then put a price on it himself and paid £90 that went straight back on turtle was products. I used as recommend by your self the new turtle Wax ceramic grapheme past wax for the first time and wow I was impressed.
As u dont do full interiors anymore. When you do a maintenance valet. Do you still do a quick interior vacuum and clean as part of the maintenance?
thanks for the great video!
Thank you for taking the time to watch
@@epicautomotivedetailing thank you for uploading 🤓
as you may notice, I'm working my way through all your videos ... So, talking of carpets: Can you make a video on a sort of carpet hit - parade? What I mean: Which makes are the best (easiest to clean), and which ones are the worst?? Like, going from #1 Bentley to - maybe #15 Vauxhall ??? Many of us would probably really appreciate that !!! Thanks in advance !!!
Fantastic idea mate. I'm screenshotting this so I don't forget. 👌
@@epicautomotivedetailing thanks again - you're the man..
I like your thinking buddy 👍
thanks mate
I charge 35 for small car interior valet exterior valet is set at 35 as well, this is only for small cars... my prices go up per vehicle size, which means that medium would be 50 and large 65, premium valets come at 100 pounds starting which is interior and exterior for small cars then it goes up per size again small to large - 100 for small, 140 for large. makes more sense of getting the premium valet as it's more cost-effective for the customer.
Hi Dave, interesting video,prices have changed since the late 90s when I was valeting not detailing,its what the customer wants and how much it will cost them.
Yeah I can imagine. My dad was a car cleaner before I was born and he said how it was different back then
Wise words as always, great video and upload. 👍
Thanks Keith 🙏
You're Welcome 👍
Great advice
I enjoyed this vid.... im thinking of starting a service, and found this good advice. I think as someone who regularly cleans 4 cars, things like pre-wash, fall out/decon i think is part of the standard process of cleaning... so to hear you charge extra for this is interesting! But has this to do with the fact that most Fallout removers are in small bottles that dont last and are expensive?
Many products out there that i use are great, including the ones you use, but some arent value for money. They are expensive and last minimal time. If i can get a pro product in a 5L bottle at not much more than a 1L , then im going with the 5. But so many are 1L! Bilt Hamber Surfex HD is a classic point. Lasts forever and is exceptionally good at so many things. I just got a bottle of Koch Khemie Green Star... another great product but it will last no where as long. Things like dedicated wheel cleaners... they all dont last very long. Ive used Korrosol in the past (stinks) lasted longer than KK Magic Wheel Cleaner.
Also for your maintenance washes , do they tend to be more hands off, like applying a wash/wax like KK Nano Magic in a lance, and a full valet you would be more hands on with a hand/machine polish, cause you are charging more money. Thats how i see it.. more personal, more money.
I need to try and get all my kit in the back of my Kia Sportage... should have plenty of room :)
Hi Steve within the next few weeks ill be releasing a new video highlighting these bits as the market has changed a little since this video came out in the UK. So i did another video about the standard maintenance valet which covers what to do when you dont have fallout removers etc. The thumbnail says (everything you need to know) and its got a jag on it too where im holding a grit guard. That will show you how i started back in the day with the basics
@@epicautomotivedetailing thanks I’ll check it out!
I just got myself some KKD products as I am out of shampoo and glass cleaner so looking forward to trying these. Good price point!
Great video Dave and a in depth look at lower market valeting materials. I suppose you pay for what you get TBH... I’ll be honest I’d be never use cheap products you never know what will happen to the vehicle your cleaning once you apply the product. Good to see your old man helping you bless him..😂👍
Thanks mate. Appreciate it. I got more business videos coming. Next batch being filmed this weekend
Hi mate . Is it ok to hand polish without clay bar ?
Amazing video
Thank you 🙏
Hi Dave, not sure if you're still responding on old videos. First, thanks for making such great content and sharing your tips with the world. On the Full Exterior Valet, you offer a full hand polish as part of the price? Does that not take ages? I am thinking of starting up a service like this and assumed a finish with a QD would bring out enough shine and protection on its own.
Hello Tim thanks for your kind words. If you try infinity wax light or dark glaze you will be amazed how quickly you can get around a car as there is no powder. I'm re making every video in the new studio as of next week so this is one of videos coming soon as my thoughts have slightly changed now to speed up the process
@@epicautomotivedetailing Great, I'll look forward to seeing it! Thanks again
Well said
Thank you
Hi mate, been following you for quite some time and I’m after a little bit of advice. My next door neighbour/mate has asked me to do his car. He wants basically the full works done on it but excluding a polish. So, inside (leather) and out, wheels. All treated, clay bar’d and ceramic sprayed. Windows polished and coated with Glaco rain repellent. The car is neglected. Dry mud inside (not excessively) but also taken down country lanes for the school run. First question, how long would this TYPICALLY take? Secondly, what should I charge approximately? It’s great to see you progressing on YT with your content and I’m back working my way through your videos again
Regards, Joe
Another epic video. Keep it up your my go car guy
Do you think Waterless Mobile valeting business is good idea for urban areas like London for example?
To risky with any scratches. You would need very good public liability insurance
@@epicautomotivedetailing Ι hear if you do it properly you won't scratch. I mean there is this big company 'dropless' already doing it in London.
My problem I will need to set up an LTD to have good insurance, right?