Mobile Detailers: A Few Questions

Roz

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I've got a few question for the mobile-detailers on the forum. . . Hopefully you guys can shed some light on a few things and help me learn from your mistakes! OK, I am shut-up now, and I'll get right to it!! :xyxthumbs:

1) Pricing
I just saw another thread is dedicated to this question. My goal is, to start out and do a few customer's (mainly friends family) cars cheaply. Let the customer know I'm starting out and NOT to tell others the price they paid but DO tell others if they were pleased (or not). Then once things get off-the-ground, move on to a full-fledged pricing program. I also plan to do a good/better/best type of service, but I would really like to focus on paint-correction and leave the production type work to the others. But on the same token, I will not be one to turn away a client or their money! (Sorry, this paragraph wasn't much a question, but I still seek advice on pricing.)

2) Payments/Receipts
Those of you that are mobile, how do you provide your customers with a receipt? Do you simply use the generic book of receipts that you can get an office-supply store? Do you transport a laptop loaded w/bookkeeping siftware and a printer and provide a more personal/professional receipt? How do you accept credit card payments?

3) The Rig itself
What do you guys use?? I'm located in the SE I see a significant temp-change throughout the year. I wouldn't think having an office-on-wheels would work for me. In the summer months I could easily justify a truck/trailer combo with all supplies loaded onboard and at my fingertips. However, my realisitc intention is to solely use a truck and only take/use what I need based on the specific job I have in front of me. That way my supplies stay well stored, and I'm not trying to manuver a truck/trailer in a customer's driveway. Which leads me to my next question!

4) Water/Electricity
Another one of my big questions is, is it "uncouth" to use the customer's electricity/water?? Do you supply the water and electricity? This would probably require a trailer, but could still be managable with a truck-only operation. Obviously, I would supply ample hoses/extension cords but would your above-average customer frown upon using their water/electricity? If the roles were reversed, I wouldn't mind it one bit. For example, when a landscaper visits a jobsite, they usually use the client's water. I don't see this being any different. I wouldn't imagine using a whole lot of water anyways, I'm sold on ONR. However, with drying/buffing a significant amout of electricty would be used. I wouldn't imagine it would be to the point of tripping a breaking and having to bother the customer with locating the breaker-box.

5) Water Reclamation
It's understand that this is a federal law and it's supposed to be enforced by local authorities. I honestly have no idea how well-enforced this law is, BUT, since it is a federal law so I wish to (try and) abide by it. However, am I better off using biodegradable products or a dedicated water reclamation system (probably a mat). I'm assuming I'll be ok with ONR since the minimal amount of water will soak into the pavement or evaporate. Thoughts?

I believe that's it for now. If I think of anything else, I'll definitely speak up!! Thanks in advance!
 
I've got a few question for the mobile-detailers on the forum. . . Hopefully you guys can shed some light on a few things and help me learn from your mistakes! OK, I am shut-up now, and I'll get right to it!! :xyxthumbs:

First off, I'm not a mobile detailer, but I work out of a fixed location. A lot of what you're asking in the first two questions is pretty universal, so I'll give you my take:

1) Pricing
I just saw another thread is dedicated to this question. My goal is, to start out and do a few customer's (mainly friends family) cars cheaply. Let the customer know I'm starting out and NOT to tell others the price they paid but DO tell others if they were pleased (or not). Then once things get off-the-ground, move on to a full-fledged pricing program. I also plan to do a good/better/best type of service, but I would really like to focus on paint-correction and leave the production type work to the others. But on the same token, I will not be one to turn away a client or their money! (Sorry, this paragraph wasn't much a question, but I still seek advice on pricing.)

I would really hesitate to start out without a full-fledged pricing program or do work "cheap" just to get off the ground. You can't control what people tell others, even if you do ask them not to divulge what they paid. If anything, you should set the standard pricing you want to be making right off the bat, and then offer a "grand opening promotion" to get the prices down to a level you want to charge initially and/or offer some incentive for your customers to refer others to you (something like "If your friends come to me, make sure they tell me you referred them. For every 5 referrals I get through you, I'll give you a free wash and coat of wax").

By doing that, even if your customers do tell their friends how much they paid you, you can explain why the prices are higher to your new clients by simply saying "that price was for our opening promotion, which is no longer running." Not to mention that if you've got your prices listed on a website or something you can let potential customers and those they refer to you check them out the menu from day one.

2) Payments/Receipts
Those of you that are mobile, how do you provide your customers with a receipt? Do you simply use the generic book of receipts that you can get an office-supply store? Do you transport a laptop loaded w/bookkeeping siftware and a printer and provide a more personal/professional receipt? How do you accept credit card payments?

Even out of a fixed location, I just use the standard receipts from the office supply store if customers want one. I do keep track of my work in QuickBooks though. For credit cards, I use Square (squareup.com) with my iPhone. You might check into it since there's no annual fee or anything to use it, and you will be able to accept any Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover branded credit or debit card.
 
I've got a few question for the mobile-detailers on the forum. . . Hopefully you guys can shed some light on a few things and help me learn from your mistakes! OK, I am shut-up now, and I'll get right to it!! :xyxthumbs:

1) Pricing
I just saw another thread is dedicated to this question. My goal is, to start out and do a few customer's (mainly friends family) cars cheaply. Let the customer know I'm starting out and NOT to tell others the price they paid but DO tell others if they were pleased (or not). Then once things get off-the-ground, move on to a full-fledged pricing program. I also plan to do a good/better/best type of service, but I would really like to focus on paint-correction and leave the production type work to the others. But on the same token, I will not be one to turn away a client or their money! (Sorry, this paragraph wasn't much a question, but I still seek advice on pricing.)

IMO you should charge by the hour regardless. Even if that amount is as low as $10 per, untill you become more estalished/expierenced

2) Payments/Receipts
Those of you that are mobile, how do you provide your customers with a receipt? Do you simply use the generic book of receipts that you can get an office-supply store? Do you transport a laptop loaded w/bookkeeping siftware and a printer and provide a more personal/professional receipt? How do you accept credit card payments?

Quite honestly, you won't need receipts. More times then not they will end up in the round file cabinet. For those who do request one, keep a booklet in your car. They are avalible at Office Max/Office Depot

As for accepting CC.....I reccomend you stick with cash or check untill you are better established. Plus Visa hits you for 3%

3) The Rig itself
What do you guys use?? I'm located in the SE I see a significant temp-change throughout the year. I wouldn't think having an office-on-wheels would work for me. In the summer months I could easily justify a truck/trailer combo with all supplies loaded onboard and at my fingertips. However, my realisitc intention is to solely use a truck and only take/use what I need based on the specific job I have in front of me. That way my supplies stay well stored, and I'm not trying to manuver a truck/trailer in a customer's driveway. Which leads me to my next question!

My rig is a two door hatchack. I don't do the whole water tank thing

4) Water/Electricity
Another one of my big questions is, is it "uncouth" to use the customer's electricity/water?? Do you supply the water and electricity? This would probably require a trailer, but could still be managable with a truck-only operation. Obviously, I would supply ample hoses/extension cords but would your above-average customer frown upon using their water/electricity? If the roles were reversed, I wouldn't mind it one bit. For example, when a landscaper visits a jobsite, they usually use the client's water. I don't see this being any different. I wouldn't imagine using a whole lot of water anyways, I'm sold on ONR. However, with drying/buffing a significant amout of electricty would be used. I wouldn't imagine it would be to the point of tripping a breaking and having to bother the customer with locating the breaker-box.

Thats the only way I operate when I do mobile. I have never had anyone tell me I could not use there water/electricity. Having said that, you will need your on hose and extension cords

5) Water Reclamation
It's understand that this is a federal law and it's supposed to be enforced by local authorities. I honestly have no idea how well-enforced this law is, BUT, since it is a federal law so I wish to (try and) abide by it. However, am I better off using biodegradable products or a dedicated water reclamation system (probably a mat). I'm assuming I'll be ok with ONR since the minimal amount of water will soak into the pavement or evaporate. Thoughts?

As of this date, here where I live, there are no laws regulating water usage/reclamation. I do feel this will be changing though, which sucks

I believe that's it for now. If I think of anything else, I'll definitely speak up!! Thanks in advance!

Hope the info I provided helped. I'm sure others will have more to add :buffing:
 
I appreciate you guys taking the time to reply!!! Some good advice here, thank you!!

Keep the replies and thoughts coming!!! :xyxthumbs:

Does anybody else have anything else to add??? Feed back please
 
1) Pricing
I just saw another thread is dedicated to this question. My goal is, to start out and do a few customer's (mainly friends family) cars cheaply. Let the customer know I'm starting out and NOT to tell others the price they paid but DO tell others if they were pleased (or not). Then once things get off-the-ground, move on to a full-fledged pricing program. I also plan to do a good/better/best type of service, but I would really like to focus on paint-correction and leave the production type work to the others. But on the same token, I will not be one to turn away a client or their money! (Sorry, this paragraph wasn't much a question, but I still seek advice on pricing.)

Price as high as the market will accept.

2) Payments/Receipts
Those of you that are mobile, how do you provide your customers with a receipt? Do you simply use the generic book of receipts that you can get an office-supply store? Do you transport a laptop loaded w/bookkeeping siftware and a printer and provide a more personal/professional receipt? How do you accept credit card payments?

CASH
, I never accepted CC ever in the last 20 some years in business. Get custom invoices printed with your logo and contact info on them. We are in the image business and yours should be top notch!!

3) The Rig itself
What do you guys use?? I'm located in the SE I see a significant temp-change throughout the year. I wouldn't think having an office-on-wheels would work for me. In the summer months I could easily justify a truck/trailer combo with all supplies loaded onboard and at my fingertips. However, my realisitc intention is to solely use a truck and only take/use what I need based on the specific job I have in front of me. That way my supplies stay well stored, and I'm not trying to manuver a truck/trailer in a customer's driveway. Which leads me to my next question!

Use the nicest vehicle you can afford. I have had them all, van, truck, trailers, etc... Cargo van works best for me.

4) Water/Electricity
Another one of my big questions is, is it "uncouth" to use the customer's electricity/water?? Do you supply the water and electricity? This would probably require a trailer, but could still be managable with a truck-only operation. Obviously, I would supply ample hoses/extension cords but would your above-average customer frown upon using their water/electricity? If the roles were reversed, I wouldn't mind it one bit. For example, when a landscaper visits a jobsite, they usually use the client's water. I don't see this being any different. I wouldn't imagine using a whole lot of water anyways, I'm sold on ONR. However, with drying/buffing a significant amout of electricty would be used. I wouldn't imagine it would be to the point of tripping a breaking and having to bother the customer with locating the breaker-box.

We carry every single thing we could possibly need with us. We pride ourselves on being able to detail anything anywhere.

5) Water Reclamation
It's understand that this is a federal law and it's supposed to be enforced by local authorities. I honestly have no idea how well-enforced this law is, BUT, since it is a federal law so I wish to (try and) abide by it. However, am I better off using biodegradable products or a dedicated water reclamation system (probably a mat). I'm assuming I'll be ok with ONR since the minimal amount of water will soak into the pavement or evaporate. Thoughts?

We wash waterless most of the time. We do have and use water sometimes. If you want to land the big money jobs you will need to be completely legitimate. Water reclaim equipment is a must.

In a perfect world one would start off with the perfect detail rig, invoices, equipment etc.... I didn't. I started out with what I could afford and made due with what I didnt have. If you don't have a tank ask to use water on-site but save up for a tank ASAP. (Explore going waterless) Use whatever you have now for a rig but quickly move up when you can, etc...

GOOD LUCK
 
In a perfect world one would start off with the perfect detail rig, invoices, equipment etc.... I didn't. I started out with what I could afford and made due with what I didnt have. If you don't have a tank ask to use water on-site but save up for a tank ASAP. (Explore going waterless) Use whatever you have now for a rig but quickly move up when you can, etc...

GOOD LUCK

Joe, are you saying someone just starting out in this business should spend 30-40 thousand dollars before they even land there first client :help:
 
Joe, are you saying someone just starting out in this business should spend 30-40 thousand dollars before they even land there first client :help:

By reading his post it seems to me that what he means is that if everything was perfect one would start a business with everything from the get go, but that there is nothing wrong with just starting with what ever is at hand, and save up to get the rest as you go.
 
There has been alot of good feeback here. Pricing has to go along with the market where you live and detail. Charge by the hour. Learn the trade. Alot of new business owners don't learn the business. Stay on AG,detail,and learn. If need be take some training. Invest in Yourselfand your business.
 
Joe, are you saying someone just starting out in this business should spend 30-40 thousand dollars before they even land there first client :help:


He started out by saying...

In a perfect world...


If you're world isn't perfect, that is if you don't have all the money you need to start out at the top, they you use what you have and re-invest back into your business as you can to upgrade to where you want and need to be.


:xyxthumbs:
 
5) Water Reclamation
It's understand that this is a federal law and it's supposed to be enforced by local authorities. I honestly have no idea how well-enforced this law is, BUT, since it is a federal law so I wish to (try and) abide by it. However, am I better off using biodegradable products or a dedicated water reclamation system (probably a mat). I'm assuming I'll be ok with ONR since the minimal amount of water will soak into the pavement or evaporate. Thoughts?

As of this date, here where I live, there are no laws regulating water usage/reclamation. I do feel this will be changing though, which sucks

Flash Gorden or anyone else. we all have to reclaim every single american. It is a law in all 50 states since the 1970's called the clean water act. Now there are was you can do it with out it costing to much.
 
Just a comment...

Excellent information provided in this thread so far, this is a sign of a powerful forum. People can come here and get real-world information that helps them to make good decisions and maximize their time, efforts and money.

I've participated on a lot of forums and all to often I see comments like,

  • I sent you a PM
  • Give me a call
  • Use the search button
The above is also sign...

On this forum I see the best and the brightest and it shows when they take the time to use their keyboard to type out useful and real information.

This isn't the only thread like this as there are plenty just like it and more each day...

Thank you to everyone in this thread and to all the members of this forum that are always willing to share with others by actually using the forum the way it was intended to be used, and that's to share with and help others by posting, that is typing... their knowledge and experience on the forum.


There's a lot of detailing discussion forums on the Internet, but people are attracted to this one because it's friendly, and getting friendlier all the time... and just as important... it helps people to reach their goals.

It's very rewarding to be a part of this forum.


:xyxthumbs:
 
I've got a few question for the mobile-detailers on the forum. . . Hopefully you guys can shed some light on a few things and help me learn from your mistakes! OK, I am shut-up now, and I'll get right to it!! :xyxthumbs:

1) Pricing
I just saw another thread is dedicated to this question. My goal is, to start out and do a few customer's (mainly friends family) cars cheaply. Let the customer know I'm starting out and NOT to tell others the price they paid but DO tell others if they were pleased (or not). Then once things get off-the-ground, move on to a full-fledged pricing program. I also plan to do a good/better/best type of service, but I would really like to focus on paint-correction and leave the production type work to the others. But on the same token, I will not be one to turn away a client or their money! (Sorry, this paragraph wasn't much a question, but I still seek advice on pricing.)

Make a price list with base prices and let your customers know the prices can go up based on condition and size of the vehicle look at my site for an example.

2) Payments/Receipts
Those of you that are mobile, how do you provide your customers with a receipt? Do you simply use the generic book of receipts that you can get an office-supply store? Do you transport a laptop loaded w/bookkeeping siftware and a printer and provide a more personal/professional receipt? How do you accept credit card payments?

I accept cash and paypal. I use quickbook online I make the invoice email it to the client and print it out as well it give it to them. You can print black invoice out with your logo on them and keep them in your vehicle. Then when you get home enter the info into your quickbooks and it will keep track of your money coming in.

3) The Rig itself
What do you guys use?? I'm located in the SE I see a significant temp-change throughout the year. I wouldn't think having an office-on-wheels would work for me. In the summer months I could easily justify a truck/trailer combo with all supplies loaded onboard and at my fingertips. However, my realisitc intention is to solely use a truck and only take/use what I need based on the specific job I have in front of me. That way my supplies stay well stored, and I'm not trying to manuver a truck/trailer in a customer's driveway. Which leads me to my next question!

I have a Mitsubishi Raider with a cover, I keep all my buffers, chemicals, and tools, in there. I don't have water or power because most of the time i am working at a shop that has both, my house, or the clients house (most don't mind) The reason I have not purchased a trailer yet is because I am still in school and play college hockey so I trailer for me right now would be over kill. Get something that suits you for the amount of clients you will be doing.

If you want to have one vehicle to work out of and use on the weekend I would get a trailer because you don't want to be taking everything in and out of the rig all the time

4) Water/Electricity
Another one of my big questions is, is it "uncouth" to use the customer's electricity/water?? Do you supply the water and electricity? This would probably require a trailer, but could still be managable with a truck-only operation. Obviously, I would supply ample hoses/extension cords but would your above-average customer frown upon using their water/electricity? If the roles were reversed, I wouldn't mind it one bit. For example, when a landscaper visits a jobsite, they usually use the client's water. I don't see this being any different. I wouldn't imagine using a whole lot of water anyways, I'm sold on ONR. However, with drying/buffing a significant amout of electricty would be used. I wouldn't imagine it would be to the point of tripping a breaking and having to bother the customer with locating the breaker-box.

Look at above post. If you plan on doing this full time get yourself a 3000 watt generator, 90 gallon low profile tank, 50' hose real 2000-2600 psi pressure washer.

5) Water Reclamation
It's understand that this is a federal law and it's supposed to be enforced by local authorities. I honestly have no idea how well-enforced this law is, BUT, since it is a federal law so I wish to (try and) abide by it. However, am I better off using biodegradable products or a dedicated water reclamation system (probably a mat). I'm assuming I'll be ok with ONR since the minimal amount of water will soak into the pavement or evaporate. Thoughts?

They don't care in FL, so I would check your area and ask other detailer if it is needed. The only state i know of that enforces it is CA
 
When it comes to pricing, you will need to taylor it to your market. Look what others are doing in your area and even make a few cold calls to other detailers for pricing. I'm a believer in a simple menu that covers 3 or 4 choices with some of your basic detailing packages. Also have an area where you list "Other Services" that can be added at additional costs. Don't be too technical in your descriptions! You don't want to add any confusion for your clients. If they want to know more about your service, be friendly and courtious and answer any questions they may have.

The value of being mobile is providing your clients with a convient way/method of having their auto detailed. Not only does this include the detailing of their auto, but also options of payment methods. We provide mobile credit card, debit, and Wright Express processing on the spot. Of Course, checks and cash work as well.

We use as little as 16 ounces of water to wash a car, so using our clients water isn't necessary because we bring our own. We do however use their power when needed for some of our services.

The whole point of providing a mobile service is CONVIENCE for your clients. Being prepared to tackle any situation will only score you point with your clients and let your clients help you spread the word of you quality business. Good Luck!
 
Thanks a million everyone. Alot of the information here has solidified some ideas, assumptions and opinions I had!! I really didn't expect this much participation! Granted I didn't ask any trade-secrets but there is some awesome advice here, and I'm humbled by it!!

I'll definitely not sell myself short with pricing. I also like the idea of keeping things simple with optional addition services. Obviously, I'll have to do some research and get my ducks in-a-row before making a decision on a set-price.

Another conclusion I've come to is there's too many available resources NOT to use professional style receipts and be able to take credit cards. That's part of the cost of doing business and I feel to be competitive I shouldn't be limited as to what type of payments I accept. I also view this as a form of marketting and it also gives a more professional image. This doesn't mean I'll be starting out of the gate with fancy staionary etc, but I'm definitely going to work towards it.

I've kinda already had my mind made up on working out of a truck and only hauling around what I feel I need. (I don't have a plethora of supplies to begin with) If the climate here were more consistent I'd probably consider a van or truck/trailer.

Another confirmation is I'm gonna hold out and see how the need(s) arise for a water-tank or generator. I definitely will not purchase until I see a consistent need for those items.

I'm still gonna do as advised and play the water-reclamation by ear. I intend to utilize a waterless wash as much as possible.

Last, but DEFINITELY not least. I appreciate all the well-wishes!!!!!!!!!
 
Taking CC is a waste of time and MONEY!! I have never lost biz because I didn't take CCs. Cash, Checks only. If you dead set on accepting CCs don't sign up the service just yet. Keep track of how many people ask if you do and how many actually take their biz elsewhere if you don't. I promise not to tell you "I told you so"

Otherwise your on the right track!!
 
Taking CC is a waste of time and MONEY!! I have never lost biz because I didn't take CCs. Cash, Checks only. If you dead set on accepting CCs don't sign up the service just yet. Keep track of how many people ask if you do and how many actually take their biz elsewhere if you don't. I promise not to tell you "I told you so"

Otherwise your on the right track!!

It must be where you operate your business as to whether or not it's a waste of time. Once I started accepting CC, Debit, Wright Express, and so on, my business increased by 30%. Also, you are only talking about the one's that actually stop to talk with you that don't ask.... How many are just driving by because you don't display the CC signage? That's all $$$$$$$ that's just driving away from your business.
 
He started out by saying...

In a perfect world...


If you're world isn't perfect, that is if you don't have all the money you need to start out at the top, they you use what you have and re-invest back into your business as you can to upgrade to where you want and need to be.


:xyxthumbs:

I'm surprised you equate living in a perfect world to having money. I figured someone as smart as you are would've figured that is not the case. Some of the most miserable ppl I have met were filthy rich. You know it really sucks when you accumulate a bunch of wealth and are able to purchase anything your heart desires and still have that empty feeling inside. Some things money just can't buy

5) Water Reclamation

Flash Gorden or anyone else. we all have to reclaim every single american. It is a law in all 50 states since the 1970's called the clean water act. Now there are was you can do it with out it costing to much.

First I have ever heard of this. I guess there to busy here trying to get the murderers off the street

Maybe this will make you feel better, during the Summer I wash cars in my yard, thus keeping it from reaching the sewer grate. I'm sad to inform you though its not so much me trying to be green as it is me just being cheap. I kill two birds with 1 stone using this method..ie... water grass

BTW...Its Gordon not Gorden. Don't make that mistake again

Taking CC is a waste of time and MONEY!! I have never lost biz because I didn't take CCs. Cash, Checks only. If you dead set on accepting CCs don't sign up the service just yet. Keep track of how many people ask if you do and how many actually take their biz elsewhere if you don't. I promise not to tell you "I told you so"

Otherwise your on the right track!!

I agree wholeheartly

It must be where you operate your business as to whether or not it's a waste of time. Once I started accepting CC, Debit, Wright Express, and so on, my business increased by 30%. Also, you are only talking about the one's that actually stop to talk with you that don't ask.... How many are just driving by because you don't display the CC signage? That's all $$$$$$$ that's just driving away from your business.

The audience I target doesn't need to finance a detail. If they happen to not have the cash/check on hand. I just catch up with them later. I never worry about being paid


The main reason I said what I did initally is because I have seen this scenario to many times. Someone looses there job or quits and think detailing is very glamerous and easy. Well its not, and it usually takes less then 6 months before the have there "RIG" posted on Craigslist for a fraction of what they have in it.

With $500 I can make anyone a paint correction specialist:buffing:
 
The audience I target doesn't need to finance a detail. If they happen to not have the cash/check on hand. I just catch up with them later. I never worry about being paid

With $500 I can make anyone a paint correction specialist:buffing:
The purpose for accepting CC has nothing to do with financing a detail! It all comes down to "CONVIENCE FOR THE CLIENT". Many of my clients prefer to pay via debit card because they don't like carring cash. Also, I have two government accounts which prefer to pay via Wright Express and so does many of the semi-truck drivers for tracking expenses on their rig.

Also, I sure hope you treat your clients with better respect and courtesy than you do members of this forum. It's a great place to come and learn from others willing to help,........... without the attitude of course!
 
The purpose for accepting CC has nothing to do with financing a detail! It all comes down to "CONVIENCE FOR THE CLIENT". Many of my clients prefer to pay via debit card because they don't like carring cash. Also, I have two government accounts which prefer to pay via Wright Express and so does many of the semi-truck drivers for tracking expenses on their rig.

Also, I sure hope you treat your clients with better respect and courtesy than you do members of this forum. It's a great place to come and learn from others willing to help,........... without the attitude of course!

Sounds like we target different audiences for sure. Sorry you don't like me :poke:
 
The main reason I said what I did initally is because I have seen this scenario to many times. Someone looses there job or quits and think detailing is very glamerous and easy. Well its not, and it usually takes less then 6 months before the have there "RIG" posted on Craigslist for a fraction of what they have in it.

With $500 I can make anyone a paint correction specialist:buffing:

Oh yeah, my personal favorite threads start with...

" Hi, I am starting my own auto detailing business, What products and tools do I need, we start next Monday.....


Your right, too many people think its just running a soapy sponge over a car and scooping wax out of a can.

Some people piss me off.
 
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