Hi Dave. I owned and ran a small detailing/valet business from 1997. I gave up and sold the business off in 2017, so twenty years at it. I made a decent living out of it, but as you say had to put the graft and hours in, not just at the cleaning bit but doing accounts, marketing the business, tendering for contracts...christ I'm getting stressed just thinking about it again. I moved into the automotive side of valeting becoming a valet manager for a large car dealer up in Scotland, I've recently been promoted to their training division and now I'm a Valet Academy Instructor teaching the companies 1000+ valeters. A lot less stress, a good salary, and no more hard graft, especially now I'm 52😉 I've been fortunate to get where I am, and enjoy the job immensely. I don't regret having my business it got where I am today gaining me the experience to now deliver a course on it. Good luck to anyone starting up, it is tough but if you work hard, don't take a lot of time off, and put in more than you take out, it will eventually reap the rewards.
I'm thinking about taking this route, I've been a roofer for 10 years and it's hard graft! I passed my driving test 2 years ago and found a passion in cleaning my car! I'm going to start out on weekends to see how profitable it could be, before thinking about sacking roofing off! Initially will be treated as a hobby in the hope that I can continue to enjoy it! I'm always watching your videos to help me along the way!
One thing I will say is that hobby which seems fun will evolve and the business side of things will add a new dynamic to your life so you will find added stress but if you get the right balance you will succeed
Recently started my own Business and your videos have made a massive difference to how I was going to do things and showing me a good path to follow so thank you! Made lots of good friends in the business as well! Work hard to play hard! Keep up the amazing videos!
"Do not think it is easy". You got that right. I've one of my teenage girls help me...the busy work, bending work. Mid-late 40s +...not so easy to detail for 1.5-4 hours of constant moving/twisting/bending...eye sight issues and/ glasses...etc, etc, bla, blah, blah. Lol
Hahaha, love it. I am that old geezer with no hair, knackered knees, a worn hip, and conjested lungs. and I have long suspected that those instafake detailers were so heavily in debt, leveraged by their own egos. Great video Dave
I recently started to do car detailing jobs during weekends to get additional income.. you are right, it is very taxing on the body especially if you’re doing it on your own
Great video, Sound advise and I like how your straight up and no gloss... It is what it is and any sort of cleaning is hard work full stop... I once worked at a car yard and always took photo's for the website, my back is buggered due to all the twisting and turning so cleaning would be a killer for sure, thanks for sharing.
Well said Dave, far too many people think this business must be a walk in the park and it’s not, it’s bloody hard graft and takes years to buildup a solid client base.
Good honest video speaking from your own experience I can see from your videos this is hard work the Amount of attention to detail that you put in is amazing I would think that building up a good client base takes a long time and a lot of hard work when I wash my own car (when I can be bothered) I am doing it for myself because I have time and I don't want to pay someone else I would rather do it myself (pride issue) if you are a car detailer than it would be your living so now matter how hot it is how cold it is you have to go equipment costs money traveling costs money you are own your feet all day I believe what you say about your back and shoulders hurting you are constantly bending over which isn't good for your back) I have worked in warehouses/distribution for nearly 30 years you do feel it. Plus side you get to work on some very nice cars that most of us will never be able to own when you work on your own for long periods of time you will start talking to yourself as well I would say that you must get a lot of pride out of your work as well
I started up with about £500. I bought the basics and did basic cleaning, moved my way up to paint polishing and correction, coatings etc, bought things when I needed them, never bought anything out of impulse or because it 'looks cool'. Insurance and that came when I started polishing just to cover my own back, But realistically I think you can start this business for £500-£1000, just to do the basics and then work your way up Good luck on starting up people!
Thank you for the video Dave. Sound advice for anyone thinking of starting a valeting/ detailing business. As you rightly pointed out car cleaning is not easy money and anyone who goes into the business thinking that will not last five minutes. Keep up the good work mate, and congratulations on reaching over 30 thousand subscribers.
I spent 5 years working for someone else and spent those 5 years building up an arsenal of polishers,extractors,steam cleaners,commercial pressure washer,vacuums etc. I done details part time for those 5 years to build up a customer based so when I went at it full time I'd plenty of work. Had enough funds for 12 months rent on a unit. 3 years later business is really good, I had plenty of contacts in the motor trade and I've 15 dealers on my books for constant valets. I have one person employed to do those valets while I do the in depth details for regular customers, anyone that thinks cleaning cars is easy work or money is very nieve!
@@epicautomotivedetailing Took a lot of sacrifices and put off owning a house for a couple of more years but it was worth all the 12 hour days and 6 day weeks
Ouch. Some of those punch points really hit home, but at least they're brutally honest and come from someone with experience. This is a great video put together for those with aspiring ideas. You deserve all the success you've worked hard for👍
Thank you mate. Sorry to tell people the truth. I feel if I sell this idea that it's all good then I feel dishonest to people who are in the situation I was in all those years ago 🙏
Great, honest content. Not many clients understand the labor and overhead costs that go into detailing a vehicle. A few years ago I did some stubby pencil math and based on total revenue and what I was out of pocket (time to and from site, gas, products, laundry, insurance, tool replacement/maintenance etc.) each vehicle was costing on average $50 to $60.
Yes mate. Definitely wasn't a personal dig at anyone in particular but I'm seeing so many egos and honestly if anything it has a negative effect on those who aspire. They show off but never offer support to the ones who need it
@@epicautomotivedetailing I’ve been thinking this for a while now. There seems to be this culture in detailing where people are uploading on Instagram etc just to get likes and follows from other detailers! You need likes and follows from potential customers. Stop sucking each other off and treating these guys like they are rock stars. They just run a business.
Sound advice as always, Dave. I often get neighbours asking me to clean their cars when they see me doing mine, but I don't have insurance and it's not worth cleaning them without it. There's always going to be one that normally takes their car to the local wash and scratch that'll blame you for putting the swirls into their car. Had I been ten years younger, I might have went into detailing professionally, but it's definitely just a hobby for me now that I can unwind and relax with. Until those bellend birds make a mess on the car.
Another cracking vudeo David. 100% correct on the toll it take on the body and health. I had been leasing my previous 2 van's, had to had it back a yr earlier to try and cut cost's and too the decision to buy this van so it becomes mines onces its paid. Having new van every few years isn't everything yes it may well look like your doing well but they may well be sinking. Took me 2yrs to replace anything that was 2nd hand to buy brand new equipment with high quality equipment. David
Exactly people see the van and think (successful) but it counts for nothing in reality. I think most businesses don't and shouldn't bother with a van and water tank. It's much better for the environment without one and it's so rare that a customer doesn't have power and water
@@epicautomotivedetailing I've just started this year taking minimum water were possible if i know i can get water at a customer's house and tend to try and get electric from them so not having to run the generator for saving on fuel and maintenance but the noise and not only that having mains power the hoover runs 100% instead of about 80% and ive noticing i getting through the job quicker as not having to go over the seats as much and you get better results. As we say work smart not harder. Unfortunately i do work at places like offices where there's no electric or water supply which gives that advantage of someone not able too.
Absolutely brilliant video, and everything you said was spot on. Been doing this since I was 36...I'm 52 in a couple of weeks 😳😳. Very hard work and stressful, especially with the weather to contend with, plus winter!! I'll keep at it for a while.....until fuel prices get ridiculous 🤷♂️
Great advice about the toll on your body I cleaned & spray waxed my wife's car black Astra & my old scrapper a white Fiesta last Sunday couldn't move for 2 days my back,hamstrings shoulders & arms ached so much but was worth it next day when could see results but it's definitely a young man's game but being 45 & 19st doesn't help 🤣🤣
Great video dave, that’s reflected on in depth starting a detailing business really is👍 the price of gloves must be made of gold? If that’s how much they cost I’d probably be buying a few packs of marigolds. When I used to clean cars on a weekend my body was in agony after 6 hours constantly bending and stretching. Occasionally people would walk past and see the results and ask about having theirs done? Then it was the winter/ summer divide - freezing buckets of water then summer it was working like the clappers before it got really hot.
Hey man, I have been following your videos very informative and on point, and I also want to start doing mobile valeting as a side hustle for the moment as I have a full time job as a care assistant which is also a stressful and back breaking job, and I have been doing that job for more than 11 years and want to do something else that I can put my hardwork and dedication that I can call my own. I completely agree with what you said about stress, family physical strain. but majority of jobs comes with risks and in real world nothing is easy money and you gonna have to sacrifice one or another. I know people have side hustle on top of their regular job so everyone is at it, especially with current situation we are all in. The end of the day you gonna have to make sacrifices in order to achieve your goal.
Thanks mate appreciate the support. It's finding the balance. I'm in a good place now where I enjoy my work but it's easier to enjoy it with all the right equipment. Makes life so much easier
@@epicautomotivedetailing hey man I am only starting I havent started any washing as I have limited equipment but this guy asking me for prices for other washes, At the moment I can only do express washes not a full on detail
Have to say Dave this was a very informative upload👍. not many details talk about the lows and i just seems to be end results we see. i remember i wanted to start my own valeting company. slowly realised this wasn't going to be for me. know i just wash my cars and even that can be exhausting still enjoy it though ☺
@@epicautomotivedetailing for sure dave. hats of to all you detailers that choose this as your courier. you provide great info into products and tips and tricks for weekend warriors like myself ☺
The brutal truth .... Good video Dave . I'm in the current situation of getting more and more work in London and I live in Kent .....ulez is brutal ...that shiny new van idea has played on my mind purely because of the ulez charge . Death by ulez or death by finance
Im 52 years old. Ive been mobile detailing as a sole trader for 15 years. I have the same 20 year old ex royal mail Vauxhall combo with 450,000 miles on the clock that I started with. (it keeps passing its MOT and its reliable) I own everything out right, inc my house. Diesel is my main yearly expense and its an eye watering expense. I still generally dont have branded clothing. Tho I did get a t-shirt made up, I rarely wear it. Warm and comfortable is more important than style. Dress for cold wet weather, you can always remove a coat or jumper if its too warm. Your boots will fall apart before they wear out. It doesnt matter if you wear £300 boots or £80 boots. They will last about 1 year. I use a Machine Mart Jetwash. Its still going after 5 years. Before that I used a Silverline jetwash for 10 years. I carry a water tank but Ive been to plenty of places without easy water. Ive never been to a location that cannot put me within 100m of a power socket. I have a throw away cheap MP3 player and in ear headphones. They kill the noise and its nice to listen to. Ive found that most people dont care what you look like, they have little interest in the name is on the products, most people dont even care what you are using. All that matters to them is the result you leave. Im at the point now where. I dont see many new customers and when they do call, squeezing them in around the UK weather and my limited free space is often impossible.. 95% of the time Im visiting people Ive already seen. Be it the every week regulars or the not so regular once per quarter or every year people. I dont even clean my van, I rarely have the time. A clean van isnt important. (Last time I washed it.. My weekly regulars made jokes about it) I use my van as a test area for a new wax etc to see how good it is, will it give the result I want, is it a pain to remove etc. DO NOT TRY TO BE ECO FRIENDLY ... The chemicals are crap and ..... I hired a Nissan EV van for a month. (I was curious and its the future you know). I gave the thing back after 2 weeks because I was having to cancel appointments and loosing money. I cannot charge at home even if I bought one. So I'd be reliant on public charging. The EV van allegedly had a 200 mile range. On a typical day. I drive 150miles per day. Except. Once I'd loaded the van for work inc the water tank. I was getting 50 miles from a charge. (No inverter) I had to charge the thing 3 times per day! Thats around 4+ hours wasted per day!. My day went like this......: Take missus to work. She comes home on the bus. Charge the van... Yawn. Do 1st job... Drive to the charge point, wait in a 3+ deep queue and eventually charge the van. Cancel 2nd job because of the charging issue. Charge the van so its ready for taking the missus to work. If we did any socialising, shopping etc... I'd need to visit the charger again before turning in for the night or we wouldnt have enough juice to take the missus to work in the morning. Charging the van isnt just the time charging the thing. Theres the time to drive to the charge point (not many around here). Waiting for a charger to be available if someone is already there. I have been 5 deep in a que. I really despair for the electric future.
Thanks for sharing this mate. Gutted to hear about the van. I've cut down on as much weight in the van as possible now. Relying on plastic storage to save on weight and won't be long before I ditch the water tank for good and downsize to a fiesta van
@@epicautomotivedetailing Have you seen the price on 2nd hand vans? Those van conversion band wagon jumping muppets have trashed the used market and forced the price on any van combo and bigger sky high. I've been offered more for my van than what I paid for it 15 years ago! Fiesta vans might be a better idea if you don't need the water tank or maybe a 100 litre tank might do you for rinsing. I only carry 1 litre bottles of chemicals or 500ml sprays of what I need for the day. There is no point in hauling bulk liquids for no reason.
Excellent Video Dave, real honestly. I only clean my own car and families but I really do enjoy detailing. I'm in my 40's and today I cleaned two cars, prepped and and decom then sealant and waxed. It was hard work, so I doubt if I was doing it as a business I could manged more than 3 in a day and that depends on the size of the cars. If you could, would you quit the valeting business and work in an office?
Another great video full of advice, thank you. I have been using a Turtle Wax TW110, and bought a larger snow foam bottle and cannon for it, for about 18th months now. Upgrade if I decide to get a valeting business going? Cheers.
No teeth, no hair and look knackered?? Ah, so you have seen my videos then!! Another cracking video Dave, there are so many hidden costs to this business - especially the physical side. I personally hate washing cars now (you can't say that!!) which is why I made the decision to go unit based and focus on corrections/coatings, as for over 20 years I've been getting cold and wet (along with the other aggro that comes with "public" valeting) that I began to hate my job. Plus I've slowed my work diary down too now that I'm knocking on a bit, to ensure I can keep the enjoyment factor. Valeting is a slog, no two ways about it, and these youngsters need to be aware that whilst its a low-barrier entry business, it's entirely about the graft....
Lol that made me laugh. Yeah being a coating specialist has its benefits. I tried to focus on luxury car valeting for that in-between market and it's worked really well but I am starting to struggle now
@@epicautomotivedetailing It's a shame to hear you say you're struggling. but I'm sure you've been through enough ups-and-downs to know nothing lasts forever.... You've targeted the correct customers, the majority are pretty "recession proof" so once things settle down you'll be back with too much work. Work longer days but fewer of them and enjoy the downtime, spend it with the family...every cloud and all that....
Love your vids mate, can you recommend a decent hose and lance for a Karcher k4, the standard lance hose is too stiff and flaps around as I move around the car banging in to it.......most annoying
Hiya mate, just wondered what hose pipe you use or could recommend? Kind of looking at the the flexi ones that expand but not sure if they are any good. Any recommendations would be great if possible
Depends on small print mate. Insurance companies are always terrible to deal with. Personally I'm not so sure because it may not cover business or cars to a certain value. For example if you own a fiat Panda but want to drive a Ferrari they will say no. It reminds if a famous scene in only fools and horses where Albert says (I'm not insured) and Rodney says don't have a crash then 😂
Very true, makes sense when you put it like that! Can't imagine they'd be happy if I went from a people carrier to a super car 🤣 😂 Good advice Keep up the great work Dave, finding lots of valuable information in here for going down the same route
Thanks Dave, I think guys who would want to start this business should watch this video, this ain't a easy thing to do because if it was than why would you need insurance and to look knackered at 50 years of doing this🤣 it sure ain't easy...thanks Dave truly loved it👌
What annoys me is that nobody actually tells you how much you can realistically expect to make, even in the comments. People always say “I started a detailing business 10 years ago and I make a decent living etc” but still don’t mention how much they actually make. I’ve been thinking about starting a detailing business for the last year, but I have no idea if it’ll actually be worth the time
i have to say if you dont want to end up knackered get out now and i know what you mean with the new van guy working to pay the crediters is just bad debt
I do admit Dave after watching your recent video about that industry on the decline it can’t have been more true! I’ve found in that last few months new clients haven’t come along as much as they did and people are 90% of the time not willing to pay for a “full valet” just want a “ quick wash, vac and shampoo” 🙄
$100 something is how much I spend on my chemicals including gloves. It’s ok spending $20 something for 100 gloves it’s better than damaging your skin but yea you’ll make up for the cost of gloves and chemicals depending on how much you charge of course
Great vid. I just started my own side hustle, so hard balancing out not investing too much but wanting/needing certain things. All in the detail valeting if anyone wants to follow on insta 🤣 On another note Dave, what do you see yourself doing If not the valets?
Hi mate. I'm currently moving from detailing clients cars to filming. TH-cam is the passion now but it's a combination of sharing everything that I learned over the 15+ years. It's sounds gloomy but I'd rather share the true emotion from bad times when I felt alone
@@epicautomotivedetailing awesome mate. Well it's your vids that tipped me over into actually trying this out so thanks. Wish you all the luck for the continued growth of the channel. You Defo have a knack. Good content/chat mixed with a bit of comedy. Golden
@@epicautomotivedetailing Ah no probs, I replied to the pinned comment with an in depth question about a power washer recommendation around £500 and wanted your thoughts on the Nilfisk P200 as a viable option as compared to the P180/Ava, came back to it and it was gone haha
Mate Karcher are gonna have you one of these days for constantly slandering their products lol, I can vouch and say I've never had a Karcher go wrong in my life! Its worth understanding that refurbished products are a mixture of returned and repaired and quality control corrections, Nilfisk have a lesser model line but could be the case that they actually have more refurbished products, your making way too many assumptions without actually knowing! The same goes for bosch power tools, loads of refurbished versions but only because I.e. they were scratched or something in manufacture and get repaired and sold on the outlet store, same with clothes. Give advice but give fair advice.
If only knew what I know. I have enough hard evidence and proof ( not assumptions) to back up what I say. Just because I don't publish what I really know about them it doesn't mean I won't in the future. And I don't go hate all karcher stuff in fact I have tons of machines that I personally spent a fortune on and some are clearly not up to the job for domestic use. I'm just being honest about my own personal experiences. If I told people to go buy a K2 and it was rubbish I'd be severely damaging my credibility
Grave vid's. The cost must be nuts. And the toll on the body physically and It's illogically obviously not good. I do it on the side, I make roughly the same hourly wages I do at my regular job. Just enjoy a period of course it's only a couple cars a month and weekends People love it, I love it . But not a lot of it. Cause it is hard Constant work. I couldn't imagine Is actual business with overhead etc.. Guess that's why detailers charge a God-awful amount, that many people aren't willing to pay A good looking car for a short time Then do it again 6 months later
Hi Dave. I owned and ran a small detailing/valet business from 1997.
I gave up and sold the business off in 2017, so twenty years at it. I made a decent living out of it, but as you say had to put the graft and hours in, not just at the cleaning bit but doing accounts, marketing the business, tendering for contracts...christ I'm getting stressed just thinking about it again. I moved into the automotive side of valeting becoming a valet manager for a large car dealer up in Scotland, I've recently been promoted to their training division and now I'm a Valet Academy Instructor teaching the companies 1000+ valeters. A lot less stress, a good salary, and no more hard graft, especially now I'm 52😉 I've been fortunate to get where I am, and enjoy the job immensely. I don't regret having my business it got where I am today gaining me the experience to now deliver a course on it. Good luck to anyone starting up, it is tough but if you work hard, don't take a lot of time off, and put in more than you take out, it will eventually reap the rewards.
Thank you mate. That's a great story well done. I'm moving into other things which are making me a good living but it's not easy
I'm thinking about taking this route, I've been a roofer for 10 years and it's hard graft! I passed my driving test 2 years ago and found a passion in cleaning my car! I'm going to start out on weekends to see how profitable it could be, before thinking about sacking roofing off! Initially will be treated as a hobby in the hope that I can continue to enjoy it! I'm always watching your videos to help me along the way!
One thing I will say is that hobby which seems fun will evolve and the business side of things will add a new dynamic to your life so you will find added stress but if you get the right balance you will succeed
All I can say is I absolutely love the honesty and transparency, wish we had more people like that here in the US
Thanks very much my friend
Recently started my own Business and your videos have made a massive difference to how I was going to do things and showing me a good path to follow so thank you! Made lots of good friends in the business as well! Work hard to play hard! Keep up the amazing videos!
Thanks mate. Just sharing my own experiences whether it's good or bad it's important everyone knows incase 🙏
"Do not think it is easy". You got that right. I've one of my teenage girls help me...the busy work, bending work. Mid-late 40s +...not so easy to detail for 1.5-4 hours of constant moving/twisting/bending...eye sight issues and/ glasses...etc, etc, bla, blah, blah. Lol
Hahaha, love it. I am that old geezer with no hair, knackered knees, a worn hip, and conjested lungs.
and I have long suspected that those instafake detailers were so heavily in debt, leveraged by their own egos.
Great video Dave
Thanks Kevin, Who needs a new van when you have an old ford transit connect lol 🙏
I recently started to do car detailing jobs during weekends to get additional income.. you are right, it is very taxing on the body especially if you’re doing it on your own
Interiors alone will turn you into a pretzel...
It's definitely not easy navigating around a car and sometimes it's easier doing one car a day and removing seats etc
Yep lol
Great video, Sound advise and I like how your straight up and no gloss... It is what it is and any sort of cleaning is hard work full stop... I once worked at a car yard and always took photo's for the website, my back is buggered due to all the twisting and turning so cleaning would be a killer for sure, thanks for sharing.
Well said Dave, far too many people think this business must be a walk in the park and it’s not, it’s bloody hard graft and takes years to buildup a solid client base.
Yes i never started with many to begin with. The effort to build those clients was insane Thanks for watching 🙏
Brilliant video, your honest summary is so accurate. It’s not yours until it’s 100% paid for.
Thank you 🙂
I just love this channel for being so realistic, practical and empowering others 👌🏼
Thanks my friend
Good honest video speaking from your own experience I can see from your videos this is hard work the Amount of attention to detail that you put in is amazing I would think that building up a good client base takes a long time and a lot of hard work when I wash my own car (when I can be bothered) I am doing it for myself because I have time and I don't want to pay someone else I would rather do it myself (pride issue) if you are a car detailer than it would be your living so now matter how hot it is how cold it is you have to go equipment costs money traveling costs money you are own your feet all day I believe what you say about your back and shoulders hurting you are constantly bending over which isn't good for your back) I have worked in warehouses/distribution for nearly 30 years you do feel it.
Plus side you get to work on some very nice cars that most of us will never be able to own when you work on your own for long periods of time you will start talking to yourself as well I would say that you must get a lot of pride out of your work as well
Thanks my friend yeah Im proud of what I achieved but feel happier with where the channel is going as that's a lot harder to run a TH-cam channel
I started up with about £500. I bought the basics and did basic cleaning, moved my way up to paint polishing and correction, coatings etc, bought things when I needed them, never bought anything out of impulse or because it 'looks cool'.
Insurance and that came when I started polishing just to cover my own back,
But realistically I think you can start this business for £500-£1000, just to do the basics and then work your way up
Good luck on starting up people!
Thanks for Sharing Dom 🙏
Wicked vid Dave, too many Instagram detailing pages mocking it mate. It’s all for clout good luck to them, we appreciate your honesty 💪
Thank Goodness that's not just me being me lol
Thank you for the video Dave. Sound advice for anyone thinking of starting a valeting/ detailing business. As you rightly pointed out car cleaning is not easy money and anyone who goes into the business thinking that will not last five minutes. Keep up the good work mate, and congratulations on reaching over 30 thousand subscribers.
Thanks Karl. I need your help to reach 100k lol. Your support always means a lot 🙏
I spent 5 years working for someone else and spent those 5 years building up an arsenal of polishers,extractors,steam cleaners,commercial pressure washer,vacuums etc. I done details part time for those 5 years to build up a customer based so when I went at it full time I'd plenty of work. Had enough funds for 12 months rent on a unit. 3 years later business is really good, I had plenty of contacts in the motor trade and I've 15 dealers on my books for constant valets. I have one person employed to do those valets while I do the in depth details for regular customers, anyone that thinks cleaning cars is easy work or money is very nieve!
Well done mate thats amazing to hear this. Thanks for sharing your story 🙏🙏
@@epicautomotivedetailing Took a lot of sacrifices and put off owning a house for a couple of more years but it was worth all the 12 hour days and 6 day weeks
@@Chris_8270 I've not even started to buy yet. Surrey is great for business but not for owning a home £😬
spot on dave I used to be a car valeter knee s are knackard and I get back pain when I have done a car boot today its because I used to valet cars
Thanks Mark its definitely making me uglier by the day 😂. I used to have energy but now I'm always done in
Ouch. Some of those punch points really hit home, but at least they're brutally honest and come from someone with experience.
This is a great video put together for those with aspiring ideas. You deserve all the success you've worked hard for👍
Thank you mate. Sorry to tell people the truth. I feel if I sell this idea that it's all good then I feel dishonest to people who are in the situation I was in all those years ago 🙏
Great, honest content. Not many clients understand the labor and overhead costs that go into detailing a vehicle. A few years ago I did some stubby pencil math and based on total revenue and what I was out of pocket (time to and from site, gas, products, laundry, insurance, tool replacement/maintenance etc.) each vehicle was costing on average $50 to $60.
Thanks very much 🙏
So glad you said the bit about having a nice new van. They are probably HP’d up to the eye balls and still rent there home.
Yes mate. Definitely wasn't a personal dig at anyone in particular but I'm seeing so many egos and honestly if anything it has a negative effect on those who aspire. They show off but never offer support to the ones who need it
@@epicautomotivedetailing I’ve been thinking this for a while now. There seems to be this culture in detailing where people are uploading on Instagram etc just to get likes and follows from other detailers! You need likes and follows from potential customers. Stop sucking each other off and treating these guys like they are rock stars. They just run a business.
@@smith12whu well said 👏
Sound advice as always, Dave.
I often get neighbours asking me to clean their cars when they see me doing mine, but I don't have insurance and it's not worth cleaning them without it. There's always going to be one that normally takes their car to the local wash and scratch that'll blame you for putting the swirls into their car.
Had I been ten years younger, I might have went into detailing professionally, but it's definitely just a hobby for me now that I can unwind and relax with. Until those bellend birds make a mess on the car.
Sometimes it's better to just keep it as a hobby. Similar when people say they shouldn't meet their hero's. The business is so different
That last part! Gotta get your body ready for this gig!!
Pro athletes would struggle lol
Great advice Dave, people think it's so easy, be interesting to see how many who started in lockdown will last.
Great question would love to find that out too
Another cracking vudeo David.
100% correct on the toll it take on the body and health.
I had been leasing my previous 2 van's, had to had it back a yr earlier to try and cut cost's and too the decision to buy this van so it becomes mines onces its paid. Having new van every few years isn't everything yes it may well look like your doing well but they may well be sinking. Took me 2yrs to replace anything that was 2nd hand to buy brand new equipment with high quality equipment.
David
Exactly people see the van and think (successful) but it counts for nothing in reality. I think most businesses don't and shouldn't bother with a van and water tank. It's much better for the environment without one and it's so rare that a customer doesn't have power and water
@@epicautomotivedetailing I've just started this year taking minimum water were possible if i know i can get water at a customer's house and tend to try and get electric from them so not having to run the generator for saving on fuel and maintenance but the noise and not only that having mains power the hoover runs 100% instead of about 80% and ive noticing i getting through the job quicker as not having to go over the seats as much and you get better results. As we say work smart not harder.
Unfortunately i do work at places like offices where there's no electric or water supply which gives that advantage of someone not able too.
@@LothianValet nice one I honestly see no problem with clients power etc. It's better for the environment too 🙂
Absolutely brilliant video, and everything you said was spot on. Been doing this since I was 36...I'm 52 in a couple of weeks 😳😳. Very hard work and stressful, especially with the weather to contend with, plus winter!! I'll keep at it for a while.....until fuel prices get ridiculous 🤷♂️
Thanks Tony for your kind words. Really hope things level out soon
I used to get the black gloves for like 2.50 think there near a tener now
Don't forget to share your detailing business stories if you think you have something that may help someone else down the line. Comment Below 👇
It’s definitely one of those occupations that’s a young persons game isn’t it Dave 👍🏻
Good warts and all video 😊
Thanks Kevin 🙏
Great advice about the toll on your body I cleaned & spray waxed my wife's car black Astra & my old scrapper a white Fiesta last Sunday couldn't move for 2 days my back,hamstrings shoulders & arms ached so much but was worth it next day when could see results but it's definitely a young man's game but being 45 & 19st doesn't help 🤣🤣
I never eat when I'm at work. I'm wasting away. The main back problems I get is from constantly picking up hoover
Another great video Dave you tell it like it is,keep them coming fantastic content 😎🤗
Thanks mate
Great video dave, that’s reflected on in depth starting a detailing business really is👍 the price of gloves must be made of gold? If that’s how much they cost I’d probably be buying a few packs of marigolds. When I used to clean cars on a weekend my body was in agony after 6 hours constantly bending and stretching. Occasionally people would walk past and see the results and ask about having theirs done? Then it was the winter/ summer divide - freezing buckets of water then summer it was working like the clappers before it got really hot.
Hi Ian, Yes those gloves are mega expensive. the thing is once they get away with charging that price they never go down despite having less demand
Great advice and knowledge there Dave.
Thanks mate 😃
Hey man, I have been following your videos very informative and on point, and I also want to start doing mobile valeting as a side hustle for the moment as I have a full time job as a care assistant which is also a stressful and back breaking job, and I have been doing that job for more than 11 years and want to do something else that I can put my hardwork and dedication that I can call my own. I completely agree with what you said about stress, family physical strain. but majority of jobs comes with risks and in real world nothing is easy money and you gonna have to sacrifice one or another. I know people have side hustle on top of their regular job so everyone is at it, especially with current situation we are all in. The end of the day you gonna have to make sacrifices in order to achieve your goal.
Thanks mate appreciate the support. It's finding the balance. I'm in a good place now where I enjoy my work but it's easier to enjoy it with all the right equipment. Makes life so much easier
@@epicautomotivedetailing hey man I am only starting I havent started any washing as I have limited equipment but this guy asking me for prices for other washes, At the moment I can only do express washes not a full on detail
Have to say Dave this was a very informative upload👍. not many details talk about the lows and i just seems to be end results we see. i remember i wanted to start my own valeting company. slowly realised this wasn't going to be for me. know i just wash my cars and even that can be exhausting still enjoy it though ☺
Thanks mate. That's exactly spot on. So much hype around the end results that people fail to show you how they got there
@@epicautomotivedetailing for sure dave. hats of to all you detailers that choose this as your courier. you provide great info into products and tips and tricks for weekend warriors like myself ☺
Another great video Dave keep them coming 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks Mark going to ramp up filming as haven't been out and about as much but got some great new stuff coming
Very useful tips and advice in this video Dave. Thank you 🙌 Keep rockin'!🔥
Thanks my friend 😃
The brutal truth .... Good video Dave . I'm in the current situation of getting more and more work in London and I live in Kent .....ulez is brutal ...that shiny new van idea has played on my mind purely because of the ulez charge . Death by ulez or death by finance
I won't work in London again it's too much hassle. Plenty of wealthy areas outside London ⭐
What is ulez?
@@megataurus7779 if your van was made before 2016 or doesn't meet strick pollution rules you must pay £12.50 a day ....... Absolute rape
@@stuartmatthews6286 👍
This video really made me laugh mate once again brilliant Information
Thanks Callum
Im 52 years old.
Ive been mobile detailing as a sole trader for 15 years.
I have the same 20 year old ex royal mail Vauxhall combo with 450,000 miles on the clock that I started with. (it keeps passing its MOT and its reliable)
I own everything out right, inc my house.
Diesel is my main yearly expense and its an eye watering expense.
I still generally dont have branded clothing. Tho I did get a t-shirt made up, I rarely wear it. Warm and comfortable is more important than style.
Dress for cold wet weather, you can always remove a coat or jumper if its too warm.
Your boots will fall apart before they wear out. It doesnt matter if you wear £300 boots or £80 boots. They will last about 1 year.
I use a Machine Mart Jetwash. Its still going after 5 years. Before that I used a Silverline jetwash for 10 years.
I carry a water tank but Ive been to plenty of places without easy water. Ive never been to a location that cannot put me within 100m of a power socket.
I have a throw away cheap MP3 player and in ear headphones. They kill the noise and its nice to listen to.
Ive found that most people dont care what you look like, they have little interest in the name is on the products, most people dont even care what you are using. All that matters to them is the result you leave.
Im at the point now where. I dont see many new customers and when they do call, squeezing them in around the UK weather and my limited free space is often impossible..
95% of the time Im visiting people Ive already seen. Be it the every week regulars or the not so regular once per quarter or every year people.
I dont even clean my van, I rarely have the time. A clean van isnt important. (Last time I washed it.. My weekly regulars made jokes about it)
I use my van as a test area for a new wax etc to see how good it is, will it give the result I want, is it a pain to remove etc.
DO NOT TRY TO BE ECO FRIENDLY ... The chemicals are crap and .....
I hired a Nissan EV van for a month. (I was curious and its the future you know).
I gave the thing back after 2 weeks because I was having to cancel appointments and loosing money.
I cannot charge at home even if I bought one. So I'd be reliant on public charging.
The EV van allegedly had a 200 mile range.
On a typical day. I drive 150miles per day.
Except. Once I'd loaded the van for work inc the water tank. I was getting 50 miles from a charge. (No inverter)
I had to charge the thing 3 times per day! Thats around 4+ hours wasted per day!.
My day went like this......:
Take missus to work. She comes home on the bus.
Charge the van... Yawn.
Do 1st job...
Drive to the charge point, wait in a 3+ deep queue and eventually charge the van.
Cancel 2nd job because of the charging issue.
Charge the van so its ready for taking the missus to work.
If we did any socialising, shopping etc... I'd need to visit the charger again before turning in for the night or we wouldnt have enough juice to take the missus to work in the morning.
Charging the van isnt just the time charging the thing.
Theres the time to drive to the charge point (not many around here).
Waiting for a charger to be available if someone is already there. I have been 5 deep in a que.
I really despair for the electric future.
Thanks for sharing this mate. Gutted to hear about the van. I've cut down on as much weight in the van as possible now. Relying on plastic storage to save on weight and won't be long before I ditch the water tank for good and downsize to a fiesta van
@@epicautomotivedetailing
Have you seen the price on 2nd hand vans?
Those van conversion band wagon jumping muppets have trashed the used market and forced the price on any van combo and bigger sky high.
I've been offered more for my van than what I paid for it 15 years ago!
Fiesta vans might be a better idea if you don't need the water tank or maybe a 100 litre tank might do you for rinsing.
I only carry 1 litre bottles of chemicals or 500ml sprays of what I need for the day.
There is no point in hauling bulk liquids for no reason.
Hi Dave, I was wondering where can I get the equipment and set up for mobile detailing?thanks
Excellent Video Dave, real honestly. I only clean my own car and families but I really do enjoy detailing. I'm in my 40's and today I cleaned two cars, prepped and and decom then sealant and waxed. It was hard work, so I doubt if I was doing it as a business I could manged more than 3 in a day and that depends on the size of the cars. If you could, would you quit the valeting business and work in an office?
I'd never work in an office. I like fresh air and freedom too much lol
Any chance you could do a test between the nilffisk p180, Ava p80 and the karcher 7125
i dont have 7125 anymore sold it. and p200 is out now so may feature that one instead
Great advise yet again☺️☺️
Thanks mate 😃
Another great video full of advice, thank you. I have been using a Turtle Wax TW110, and bought a larger snow foam bottle and cannon for it, for about 18th months now. Upgrade if I decide to get a valeting business going? Cheers.
Nice one hopefully it gives you everything you need out of life 🙏
How absolutely true!
Thank you 😃
No teeth, no hair and look knackered?? Ah, so you have seen my videos then!!
Another cracking video Dave, there are so many hidden costs to this business - especially the physical side. I personally hate washing cars now (you can't say that!!) which is why I made the decision to go unit based and focus on corrections/coatings, as for over 20 years I've been getting cold and wet (along with the other aggro that comes with "public" valeting) that I began to hate my job. Plus I've slowed my work diary down too now that I'm knocking on a bit, to ensure I can keep the enjoyment factor.
Valeting is a slog, no two ways about it, and these youngsters need to be aware that whilst its a low-barrier entry business, it's entirely about the graft....
Lol that made me laugh. Yeah being a coating specialist has its benefits. I tried to focus on luxury car valeting for that in-between market and it's worked really well but I am starting to struggle now
@@epicautomotivedetailing It's a shame to hear you say you're struggling. but I'm sure you've been through enough ups-and-downs to know nothing lasts forever....
You've targeted the correct customers, the majority are pretty "recession proof" so once things settle down you'll be back with too much work.
Work longer days but fewer of them and enjoy the downtime, spend it with the family...every cloud and all that....
@@BlackDogCarCare it's the struggle of doing too much. I prefer TH-cam to actual work these days lol
Love your vids mate, can you recommend a decent hose and lance for a Karcher k4, the standard lance hose is too stiff and flaps around as I move around the car banging in to it.......most annoying
Direct Hoses mate…best purchase ever….not one kink.
So many good places. JMS karcher Redhill. Direct hoses. Yum cars just bought out a video on the new cobra jet hose. Depends on budget etc
And massive thank you for watching them
Love you videos Dave 👍👏
Thank you 🙏
Quick question dave, karcher hd 5/11p or ava p80 evolution, have a karcher k7 and just about to sink a booth in it any help appreciated.
Karcher 5/12 or 6/13 I had both back in the day
Thanks dave.
Hiya mate, just wondered what hose pipe you use or could recommend? Kind of looking at the the flexi ones that expand but not sure if they are any good. Any recommendations would be great if possible
Hi mate Flexi hoses sent great they split under pressure. Go for a thick one to cope
Full of great information as always!
Will fully comp insurance with cover for third party vehicles not do the job instead of motor trader insurance?
Depends on small print mate. Insurance companies are always terrible to deal with. Personally I'm not so sure because it may not cover business or cars to a certain value. For example if you own a fiat Panda but want to drive a Ferrari they will say no. It reminds if a famous scene in only fools and horses where Albert says (I'm not insured) and Rodney says don't have a crash then 😂
Very true, makes sense when you put it like that!
Can't imagine they'd be happy if I went from a people carrier to a super car 🤣
😂 Good advice
Keep up the great work Dave, finding lots of valuable information in here for going down the same route
What type Insurence are meant to have on your can bro commercial van insurance ? Or traders ?
You need both mate.
Thanks Dave, I think guys who would want to start this business should watch this video, this ain't a easy thing to do because if it was than why would you need insurance and to look knackered at 50 years of doing this🤣 it sure ain't easy...thanks Dave truly loved it👌
Thanks mate. The video was longer but chopped bits out for another time. Who has half hour spare these days lol
I love your videos no matter the time, you always has that sense of humor that makes it a joy to watch
What annoys me is that nobody actually tells you how much you can realistically expect to make, even in the comments. People always say “I started a detailing business 10 years ago and I make a decent living etc” but still don’t mention how much they actually make. I’ve been thinking about starting a detailing business for the last year, but I have no idea if it’ll actually be worth the time
Very good reason for that... The taxman
i have to say if you dont want to end up knackered get out now and i know what you mean with the new van guy working to pay the crediters is just bad debt
I do admit Dave after watching your recent video about that industry on the decline it can’t have been more true! I’ve found in that last few months new clients haven’t come along as much as they did and people are 90% of the time not willing to pay for a “full valet” just want a “ quick wash, vac and shampoo” 🙄
I'm sure it will pick up again once people get used to the new normal 👌
Great video
Cheers Mike
$100 something is how much I spend on my chemicals including gloves. It’s ok spending $20 something for 100 gloves it’s better than damaging your skin but yea you’ll make up for the cost of gloves and chemicals depending on how much you charge of course
Great vid. I just started my own side hustle, so hard balancing out not investing too much but wanting/needing certain things.
All in the detail valeting if anyone wants to follow on insta 🤣
On another note Dave, what do you see yourself doing If not the valets?
Hi mate. I'm currently moving from detailing clients cars to filming. TH-cam is the passion now but it's a combination of sharing everything that I learned over the 15+ years. It's sounds gloomy but I'd rather share the true emotion from bad times when I felt alone
@@epicautomotivedetailing awesome mate. Well it's your vids that tipped me over into actually trying this out so thanks. Wish you all the luck for the continued growth of the channel. You Defo have a knack. Good content/chat mixed with a bit of comedy. Golden
Thanks
Nilfisk Professional 200 any good? Idk why my comment was deleted from the pinned one
??? I have no idea what you are talking about my friend. I get hundreds of messages every day
@@epicautomotivedetailing Ah no probs, I replied to the pinned comment with an in depth question about a power washer recommendation around £500 and wanted your thoughts on the Nilfisk P200 as a viable option as compared to the P180/Ava, came back to it and it was gone haha
How much we can earn by doing this business in per day of 8 hour work
Why you doing it if you got so many issues doing it?
Everyone has issues with work. It's my job to make people aware because I care about the wellbeing of others as everyone thinks it's easy
@@epicautomotivedetailing yeah I know. Its not easy being self employed aswell
Mate Karcher are gonna have you one of these days for constantly slandering their products lol, I can vouch and say I've never had a Karcher go wrong in my life! Its worth understanding that refurbished products are a mixture of returned and repaired and quality control corrections, Nilfisk have a lesser model line but could be the case that they actually have more refurbished products, your making way too many assumptions without actually knowing! The same goes for bosch power tools, loads of refurbished versions but only because I.e. they were scratched or something in manufacture and get repaired and sold on the outlet store, same with clothes. Give advice but give fair advice.
If only knew what I know. I have enough hard evidence and proof ( not assumptions) to back up what I say. Just because I don't publish what I really know about them it doesn't mean I won't in the future. And I don't go hate all karcher stuff in fact I have tons of machines that I personally spent a fortune on and some are clearly not up to the job for domestic use. I'm just being honest about my own personal experiences. If I told people to go buy a K2 and it was rubbish I'd be severely damaging my credibility
My Nilfisk didn't last two months - I'd never buy that brand again
Which model? With any mass produced product there will always be a bad model from manufacturing hope they resolved it
Grave vid's. The cost must be nuts. And the toll on the body physically and It's illogically obviously not good. I do it on the side, I make roughly the same hourly wages I do at my regular job. Just enjoy a period of course it's only a couple cars a month and weekends People love it, I love it . But not a lot of it. Cause it is hard Constant work. I couldn't imagine Is actual business with overhead etc.. Guess that's why detailers charge a God-awful amount, that many people aren't willing to pay A good looking car for a short time Then do it again 6 months later