How's your business handling the COVID19 pandemic?

[Ed Abbondanzio]

Couple of questions if you guys have time:

1. Are you staying busy?
2. Do you have a backup plan?
3. How are you handling it?

For reference I'm in Maine, and we still haven't really felt the full effects of it yet, but business is dead. Non-essential businesses are still allowed to be open (for now) but there seems to be no demand at all. I don't blame people as detailing is probably the last thing on their minds right now.

My business is still in it's early infantile stage and this isn't the spring boom I was hoping for. Scraping through January was rough, February was a nice busy burst, but March has petered off into nothing.

I've got~6 weeks of runway left and I think it's time for plan B. I don't have much hope for landing a loan from the SBA as my revenue for last year was pretty low. I'm thinking my best bet is to hibernate the business and go back into the software dev field for now.

 

[Eric7810]

So sorry to hear this. Keep us posted brother.

I am also curious to hear other’s stories.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[DMiglio]

Hey Ed, first off I’m very sorry to hear this and I hope things can turn around for you soon!

I only do this on the side(Mobile detailing) and usually try to drum up business around March, but had some car troubles and didn’t start on time this year. Now I have a car and would like to take some jobs, but timing is terrible with the virus right now. I have some ideas of what I’d like to do, but for my health and my wife, I’m patiently waiting to see how things pan out the next couple days.

You said you’re in the “infantile stage” how long have you been in business?
Do you have any regular clients?
This is your full time job or a side/part time job?
What have you been doing in the past for leads?
Have you tried anything new to get leads?

Sorry for all the questions just trying to get a feel for your situation and what’s working/not working for customers.

I will try to help but I can honestly say I’ve never had a solid schedule or multiple booked clients week in and week out as I only do this about 6 months out of the year due to weather in Chicago area and having a regular day job.

 

[Stroh]

Is there a product that can be used to disinfect the interior of the vehicle without causing damage? That could be a new line of service. I know this event won't last forever, but there is cold/flu season every year from November to May. Perhaps a recurring service program?

 

[Ed Abbondanzio]

Apologies, I think the post came out a little harsher than I intended. I'm primarily curious to how others are fairing as I've seen a lot of unease in the small businesses forums I lurk in and wanted to see what other detailers are feeling.

Hey Ed, first off I’m very sorry to hear this and I hope things can turn around for you soon!

I only do this on the side(Mobile detailing) and usually try to drum up business around March, but had some car troubles and didn’t start on time this year. Now I have a car and would like to take some jobs, but timing is terrible with the virus right now. I have some ideas of what I’d like to do, but for my health and my wife, I’m patiently waiting to see how things pan out the next couple days.

You said you’re in the “infantile stage” how long have you been in business?
Do you have any regular clients?
This is your full time job or a side/part time job?
What have you been doing in the past for leads?
Have you tried anything new to get leads?

Sorry for all the questions just trying to get a feel for your situation and what’s working/not working for customers.

I will try to help but I can honestly say I’ve never had a solid schedule or multiple booked clients week in and week out as I only do this about 6 months out of the year due to weather in Chicago area and having a regular day job.

Sucks to hear about your car troubles messing with the start of your season. Maybe all our lucks will change soon haha.

I've only been in business for 10 months (6 years of detailing experience though). The business kinda started on a whim after I left a job I was unhappy at last May. Looking back it was a bit brash to dive head first into starting a business but ignorance is bliss I suppose. I do have a few regular clients but unfortunately they're all small dealers. The pay isn't great but they've helped keep the lights on all winter. This is also my full time job now.

Initially I was running purely off word of mouth for leads with only minimal signage. This worked out great until I learned how bad I was undercharging. Once prices went up in January I started advertising via Google + Facebook since I could afford it. I've slowly been building an audience on FB as well and have gotten a few jobs from it. My latest attempt at generating leads was running a 15% off sale that started last Friday. It got a lot of attention but no bites. I think it was too late because of the virus.

I do appreciate the help. I mention getting a developer job again because I think it would take a lot of the stress away from running the business. Lately I've found myself wiggling prices down out of desperation to get $$$.

Is there a product that can be used to disinfect the interior of the vehicle without causing damage? That could be a new line of service. I know this event won't last forever, but there is cold/flu season every year from November to May. Perhaps a recurring service program?

I'm a little uncomfortable with advertising a service specifically towards the corona virus because it feels like taking advantage of people especially if I'm not 100% confident in what I'd be doing.

 

[2black1s]

Is there a product that can be used to disinfect the interior of the vehicle without causing damage? That could be a new line of service. I know this event won't last forever, but there is cold/flu season every year from November to May. Perhaps a recurring service program?

Some may think about disinfecting an interior in the midst of this crisis more so than during normal times, but if you listen to the facts as they are known today, it really doesn't make much sense to me.

From what we know now the current virus can remain active on surfaces for up to approximately 24 hours. Somewhat shorter or longer depending on the surface type, but not indefinitely in any circumstance.

So... my take is if you're that concerned simply park the car for a day.

 

[57Rambler]

Is there a product that can be used to disinfect the interior of the vehicle without causing damage? That could be a new line of service. I know this event won't last forever, but there is cold/flu season every year from November to May. Perhaps a recurring service program?

A car unoccupied for 4 days should be safe. Plastics seem to be one of the surfaces on which the virus remains viable the longest, and data has shown that to be 3 days for plastics. Steel, leather, glass ... all much shorter times vs. plastics. So add a day for a safety factor and after that there should be no viable virus left in that car.

 

[PAD]

I'm in New Jersey, I did my last two details on Saturday. All non-essential businesses have been ordered to close. Business started slowing down for me about two weeks ago. I had 7 cancellations last week. 2020 started off really strong for me,business was up 350 percent in January and almost 100 percent in February. Fortunately I have other sources of income, that is my back up plan. My hope is that business comes back strong when everything settles down. I'm going to try to promote disinfecting interiors with the use of ozone machine once this passes by. Things really start getting busy in April and May, hopefully we do not miss the rush. I wish you the best of luck Ed, keep your head up and stay positive.

 

[2black1s]

Another thing that all of you that are promoting "disinfecting" as a service to provide need to consider is your potential liability.

I'd be very careful how you market such a service.

 

[DMiglio]

My hope is that business comes back strong when everything settles down. I'm going to try to promote disinfecting interiors with the use of ozone machine once this passes by.

This is one thing I’m planning on doing as well. I need to buy an ozone machine though, any you’d recommend?

Depending on the demand and how long the service takes, I’m even thinking of offering a quick exterior wash while the machine does it’s thing. This could be seen as a free added service to the client and since the machine is busy I might as well be too. I look at it as, I’m making money either way and I could stand around at the clients house or be busy and focusing on something that would benefit us both.

 

[DMiglio]

Another thing that all of you that are promoting "disinfecting" as a service to provide need to consider is your potential liability.

I'd be very careful how you market such a service.

I tried looking into this quite a bit today, ozone generators effectiveness against viruses. I read a study from 2009 where they tested for antibacterial, antiviral and sterilization properties of the machines. This study was also to further confirm multiple studies from about 15 years prior about ozone’s effectiveness against similar viruses and bacteria’s. Unfortunately, they can’t prove anything on Covid-19 just yet, but it worked against the SARS virus then, stating “no ozone-resistant viruses have been found.” Meaning, of all the viruses they tested(in lab and in field(hotel room)) none remained vital. Some enveloped(like Covid-19) some “non-enveloped”(can’t think of the term).

It’s been quite hard to find anything specific about ozone vs Covid-19 and I think there may be a few reasons for that, ozone doesn’t seem to be a “user friendly” device, like a spray or wipe disinfectant which people might misuse anyways. Another reason is it’s still new and possibly not being cultured, or maybe they’re using tissue from patients who’ve died for testing and it wouldn’t be for ozone research, but treatments and vaccines.

I think to market something like this there should be a disclaimer to cover our a**. Problem is other than a lab test, done before(to even know if it’s in the vehicle, or what for that matter) and after, you and the client can’t prove anything. I personally would look at it like my copyright material for “stains in fabric/carpet,” don’t say “stain removal” say “stain treatment.” You can’t always guarantee 100% stain removal sometimes, so don’t, go with stain treatment instead, any component detailer with the right chemicals and agitation will improve a stain no doubt! That’s how you treat it. I’ve seen steamed, drill brushed, drenched in chemicals and extracted stains not come out, imagine saying “stain removal” and failing after all that.

Enjoy the long read everybody, sorry!!

 

[PAD]

This is one thing I’m planning on doing as well. I need to buy an ozone machine though, any you’d recommend?

Depending on the demand and how long the service takes, I’m even thinking of offering a quick exterior wash while the machine does it’s thing. This could be seen as a free added service to the client and since the machine is busy I might as well be too. I look at it as, I’m making money either way and I could stand around at the clients house or be busy and focusing on something that would benefit us both.

Unfortunately, I can't remember the brand of my machine, it's in the shop. I've been using it for several years for odor elimination and it has more than payed for itself. From what I have read, you need to run the machine for 30 - 60 minutes to kill pathogens and viruses.

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

I'm thinking my best bet is to hibernate the business and go back into the software dev field for now.

We, as in America and the World will get through this, there's simply going to be a pause until Science figures out how to address it and from watching the news, they are getting closer.

Yesterday these two drugs combinations were supposed to start undergoing testing,

1: Chloroquine (hydroxychloroquine/Plaquenil)

2: Zithromax (generic name azithromycin)


This is based upon the success Didier Raoult, a French virologist has had using this combination to treat the virus.

It's always a good idea to have a Plan B and execute if needed but I would encourage you to have hope especially if this detailing business is your passion.

 

[DMiglio]

Ed, glad to see you respond, idk how I missed your reply yesterday. I appreciate you answering those questions as I think it may help others in guiding you. As Mike said above my post, keep that Plan B in mind and if needed do it!

Detailing will always be there for you and might be better to step back and take the stress out of it. This can allow you to not worry about cutting prices or running deals bringing in “price shoppers” or bites only because you must take a job, any job or you can lose your business. That’s not a good place to be in you know?

As far as my car troubles, I’ll just say, never buy a Mini Cooper or any year or trim level haha. Bought a clubman because it was a bit bigger and needed the size to carry all my detailing supplies/tools for mobile detailing. Lost my butt on that car, so took a massive loss there and now to deal with the economic fallout of this media hyped virus(I know it’s serious but more will suffer from the economic impact than the virus itself).

 

[DMiglio]

Unfortunately, I can't remember the brand of my machine, it's in the shop. I've been using it for several years for odor elimination and it has more than payed for itself. From what I have read, you need to run the machine for 30 - 60 minutes to kill pathogens and viruses.

Thanks, that’s what I read as well, needs a fair amount of time to kill. Even in automobiles that have less square footage than a bathroom, I’d run it full blast for 60 minutes. This is why I’m thinking to offer a basic exterior wash while that does it’s thing.

I also saw concern that ozone machines may effect stereo equipment/speakers from the way ozone machines create O3 using electric charge. Have you ever had any trouble with this or read that as well? I’ve never once heard this but as I was reading around a few people commented about that on some forums. Seems bogus but also seems legit haha.

 

[PAD]

I also saw concern that ozone machines may effect stereo equipment/speakers from the way ozone machines create O3 using electric charge. Have you ever had any trouble with this or read that as well? I’ve never once heard this but as I was reading around a few people commented about that on some forums. Seems bogus but also seems legit haha.[/QUOTE]

I've read that too and also that it can damage seals. Personally, I have never had any issues. I've run the machine in some cars for close to 2 hours and never had an issue. I searched on line and found the machine that I have, it's the OdorFree Autel 1000.

 

[DMiglio]

Hey thanks so much for letting me know your experience as far as ozone and stereo/seals and looking that machine up. I saw another detailer recommend that exact one so I’ve got a window open on my browser for it already waiting to pull the trigger.

 

[Ed Abbondanzio]

We, as in America and the World will get through this, there's simply going to be a pause until Science figures out how to address it and from watching the news, they are getting closer.

Yesterday these two drugs combinations were supposed to start undergoing testing,

1: Chloroquine (hydroxychloroquine/Plaquenil)

2: Zithromax (generic name azithromycin)


This is based upon the success Didier Raoult, a French virologist has had using this combination to treat the virus.

It's always a good idea to have a Plan B and execute if needed but I would encourage you to have hope especially if this detailing business is your passion.

I won't give up hope on the detailing business as it is something I'm passionate about. Just worried about making the right move before it's too late. Hopefully all of this will blow over soon.

Ed, glad to see you respond, idk how I missed your reply yesterday. I appreciate you answering those questions as I think it may help others in guiding you. As Mike said above my post, keep that Plan B in mind and if needed do it!

Detailing will always be there for you and might be better to step back and take the stress out of it. This can allow you to not worry about cutting prices or running deals bringing in “price shoppers” or bites only because you must take a job, any job or you can lose your business. That’s not a good place to be in you know?

As far as my car troubles, I’ll just say, never buy a Mini Cooper or any year or trim level haha. Bought a clubman because it was a bit bigger and needed the size to carry all my detailing supplies/tools for mobile detailing. Lost my butt on that car, so took a massive loss there and now to deal with the economic fallout of this media hyped virus(I know it’s serious but more will suffer from the economic impact than the virus itself).

I get what you mean. I really wish I could find a part time job just to bring a bit of income in and let me be more firm on detailing prices. I'd hate to build up a reputation that my prices can be dropped if they play hard ball.

And I've heard similar stories from others Mini Cooper owners sadly. I can't say much though I drive an old Cherokee that has a laundry list of things to fix that I'll get to someday. :laughing:

 

[DMiglio]

And I've heard similar stories from others Mini Cooper owners sadly. I can't say much though I drive an old Cherokee that has a laundry list of things to fix that I'll get to someday. :laughing:

Yeah, it was a mistake buying it, made it just over 100k and crapped the bed. It had a burnt exhaust valve, massive issues in cylinder 4. I’m very mechanically inclined so here I am in my apartment parking lot in the middle of winter pulling apart the top end of the engine. I learned many lessons from owning that p.os.

My buddy bought a rusted out and beat Cherokee, mid 90’s 250+ miles, that he drove extremely hard. Pissed and burnt oil like it had no gaskets or rings but I’ll be damned if it still isn’t driving today some 10 years later! Thing was a workhorse that he’d drive on 100 mile trips.

Even with your list, I’d buy your Jeep over many other cars based on my experience with his and stories of many others!

 

[Cosmin]

Couple of questions if you guys have time:

1. Are you staying busy?
2. Do you have a backup plan?
3. How are you handling it?

texas was hit but not as bad , and we did not hit the peak yet, plus i think this virus will be around for a good while based of the government missteps and indecision and lack of preparedness.

we did a 2 weeks isolation , i did give my guys mask , gloves and a bottle of 70% alchool to have in their car.
the last 2 weeks we went back to work , mask mandatory , i check their temp with a temp gun , and they have access to gloves and sanitizer.
i usually run the shop , ppf install , but the last 2 weeks i join the mobile washes with the crew , is been 4-5 years since i did mobile with the crew....

our advantage is that we offer a variety of service ( mibile wash, ppf , auto detail , paint correction , car wrap, ceramic coating) so any jobs helps at this time, and i can help the guys too.
on the other side , the disaster loan or the ppp loan is a no go , no luck there so i am by my own!
is frustrating but being for 10 years in business you know are rainy days so mental i can handle it like a rainy day....
financial i may be able to sustain the situation for a few more months, with a bit of projects i will survive , or i like to think so....

i did cut some subscriptions , took out one of the van from insurance , and few other financial adjustments , business or personal related.
also got lucky to get an business credit card with 0 apr for a year so i transfer some balance from other cards and i will use it for business or personal if needed. not ideal but now all relief helps.

we rent 2 units , that's 2500 sq ft total , my lease expire in end may , i have 3 options....
- keep only 1 unit, with contract for 6 months not years , if the next month is decent in projects
- keep both units if we have more than 3-4 cars on steady in the next month
- let the shop go and install ppf from home while doing mobile with vans and crew ( i did install from home garage and is set up for it , lights, floor , space)
i work or not working the landlord expects payment , and is a contract in the middle , not flexible so decisions , decisions

we may not take any new interior details, just exterior only.
i do am more cautious about any new client that wants detailing , we will see anyone new at the shop with virus in mind: any car will be ozone generator 30-40min , alchool 70% wipe down interior , probably steam all carpets too. will be more expensive but is the only way we will take any new clients.


and that may be the back up plan in case we hit a wall, sanitizing cars , i do need some hazmat suits ...., but it can be done.... kind of risky , but if the car has the ozone before any interior work should work....


that`s how i handle it...