Question for mobile detailing guys with small vans?

I detail out of a MB E350 part time. I don’t carry water nor a generator. I sell my abilities and knowledge and always advise the client ahead of time and ask if connecting to their power and water is a concern. I’ve not had anyone object. I do carry two electrical extension cords and 100 ft of hose.
 
Thanks man, you make a good point. I’m so overwhelmed with starting right. I can’t do none of this without God and none of you, thanks for all the support auto geeks. It’s definitely taken a lot of my shoulders.


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@Sharply

I want clients to see I’m prepared, and therefore charge more.

I want to be able to charge the value I provide.

I actually had a “potential “ client pass me up because I had no water. She lived in an apartment complex and no access to water or power.

Later on I really realized it was a blessing. She was was one of those clients that shop for the lowest bid.

Quite honestly I have a long way to go, but I use quality products.

I use Meguiar’s, Chemical Guys, Mothers, 303 protectant.

My biggest fear is getting rejected, but I need to get my name out there.

Either way If I don’t raise my prices, I won’t stay in business long.




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JustJesus said:
Gravity feed does suck. Shurflo makes a pump to run off 12V. But I'm sure Suds has a generator and a "regular" pump.

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To answer your question because I missed it originally, I have a 12v shurflo on demand (you want on demand because it only pumps when it detects flow otherwise you have to make sure to turn the pump on and off. If you don't turn it off it will thermal and shut off for like 10 minutes) pump that runs off a deep cycle marine battery that also powers phone chargers and LED lights mounted in the trailer (for packing up early or late). The battery is wired into the charging system on my Denali through the factory 7 pin connector. So I can unhook my rig in an emergency and run an errand while the trailer is still fully functional and somebody can work out of it while I'm gone (which has happened more than once).
 
TrustJesus said:
Today I loaded up work van, with at least 450-500 pounds and it drove heavy. I don’t feel comfortable carrying a 65 gallon water tank. That’s 540 lbs. then I loaded 220 lbs (trampoline) and it seemed more manageable.

I’ve decided to go waterless wash and carry only 35 gallon water tank which is 290 lbs for more peace of mind.
The water tank will be fore more dirty vehicles and cleaning rims and what not.

I still do not understand how the shurflo pump works.
Do I have to buy a 12V batter or can I connect it to my generator when I get one?
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This question is so simple I had to think about why it was an issue. Connect it to your van's battery.
 
TrustJesus said:
@Sharply

I want clients to see I’m prepared, and therefore charge more.

I want to be able to charge the value I provide.

I actually had a “potential “ client pass me up because I had no water. She lived in an apartment complex and no access to water or power.

Later on I really realized it was a blessing. She was was one of those clients that shop for the lowest bid.

Quite honestly I have a long way to go, but I use quality products.

I use Meguiar’s, Chemical Guys, Mothers, 303 protectant.

My biggest fear is getting rejected, but I need to get my name out there.

Either way If I don’t raise my prices, I won’t stay in business long.




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Click to expand...

Just out of curiosity did you ever get up and running with your business?
 
Count me among the small van crowd. We just purchased a 2021 Ford transit connect to use as our second mobile vehicle. I'll post some pics when it's done.
 
Hey guys, I could sit here and make excuses but I won’t. I respect the heck out of people who do this, you guys bust your butts off. My hats off to everyone who does detailing for a living.

I could not get my business off, and I just don’t think have what it takes to be fearless.
I sold my van because I thought it was too small, never really got a tank in there to try it.

I went back to working for my old employer driving commercial trucks dumping concrete.

I had to supper my family and well detailing in my area wasn’t really in demand if I could be honest.

Like I said no excuses, but it didn’t work out for me.

Good luck to the rest of you hard working fellas.


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Well that's too bad but you gotta do what's good for you and your family.
 
Suds I respect your hustle that’s for sure. Not easy task, again my hats off to everyone who does this for a living.


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