How to start a car wash and auto detail business

Opening up a car wash and auto detail business can be pretty tricky and confusing at first. Getting all the steps in the right order is quite the hassle. Worry no more; we’ll help you figure out the basics in a few easy steps.

Car wash and auto detail business plan template

Car wash and auto detail business plan template

Step 1: Writing a Business Plan

Your car wash and auto detail business should focus on both long term as well as short term operations. A business plan will help you do just that and more. Remember, your business plan should be detailed, thorough and well researched. It’s always best to leave this part up to the professionals or if you are on a budget use a car wash business plan template made by one.

Step 2: Picking the Location

Picking a location is probably one of the most important steps to opening a successful car wash and auto detail business. Scouting and researching are emphasized for this. Visit as many spots you can and then decide the best one. Get a feel for your potential market. Make sure that the location you pick is a commercial one. Take your time and don’t rush into a purchase.

Step 3: Study the Competition

Properly research the rest of the local car washes and auto detail workshops present in your market. They will help you plan even better. Consider all the choices they made and you think they could’ve changed or done better. Also, tour as many successful car washes as possible and try to figure out what exactly makes them tick.

Step 4: Getting Licensed

Research which local city or department handles the business licenses and file an application. Look for information on local utility usage codes, insurance, requirements and tax rates etc. Make sure your business is completely legal. Every area and city have different rules, take your time to properly study it up.

Step 5: Financing

This is possibly one of the most challenging steps you’ll face. A solid revenue model is what will attract and impress investors to put up capital for your business. Be sure to consider every single little thing when planning finances.

Step 6: Marketing

You won’t attract loads and heaps of customers until and unless they actually know of your business. Make sure that you let the community know about your car wash and auto detail business. Holding a grand opening is also one of the techniques most car washes use. Market as much as possible, this will play a vital role in the success of your business.

To get your car wash and auto detail business organized and increase your chances of funding check out this business plan template: Car Wash/Auto Detail Business Plan

Car wash and auto detail business plan template

Car wash and auto detail business plan template

Published by Shawn C