How It Works
Three simple steps to get accurate calculations
1
Calculate Startup Costs
Enter equipment, vehicle setup, supplies, and initial marketing expenses.
2
Set Service Pricing
Define pricing for different detail packages and add-on services.
3
Plan Schedule
Input daily capacity, travel time, and service duration estimates.
4
Project Profits
See monthly earnings, break-even timeline, and equipment payback period.
Mobile Car Detailing ROI Planner
Plan monthly profit and payback time for your mobile detailing startup with comprehensive financial analysis.
Share Your Scenario
Copy link with your current inputs
Results
Monthly Net Profit
$4,708.32
35.7% net margin
Key Metrics
Total Monthly Jobs88 jobs
Monthly Revenue$13,200.00
Monthly Variable Cost$7,291.68
Monthly Gross Profit$5,908.32
Monthly Net Profit$4,708.32
Profitability Analysis
Gross Margin44.8%
Net Margin35.7%
Variable Cost per Job$82.86
Break-Even Jobs per Day0.8 jobs
Annual Net Profit$56,499.84
Cost Breakdown
Labor Costs$5,500.00 (64.8%)
Fixed Costs$1,200.00 (14.1%)
Consumables$1,320.00 (15.5%)
Travel Costs$471.68 (5.6%)
Business Insights
Profitable Business Model
Your mobile detailing business generates $4,708.32 monthly profit with 35.7% net margin.
Quick Investment Recovery
You'll recover your equipment investment in 1.7 months, which is excellent for service businesses.
Strong Break-Even Position
You need 0.8 jobs per day to break even, which is achievable with your current capacity.
Good Gross Margin
Your 44.8% gross margin is solid but could be optimized for better profitability.
Business Optimization Tips
• Focus on efficient routing to minimize travel time and fuel costs • Offer package deals for regular customers to increase job value • Consider premium services like ceramic coatings for higher margins • Track customer lifetime value to optimize marketing spend • Implement seasonal pricing during peak demand periods
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start a mobile car detailing business?
Startup costs typically range from $10,000-$30,000 including professional equipment ($5,000-$15,000), vehicle setup ($2,000-$8,000), initial supplies ($1,000-$3,000), insurance, and marketing materials.
How much should I charge for mobile car detailing?
Basic wash: $25-50, Full detail: $100-200, Premium detail: $200-400. Pricing depends on location, competition, service quality, and time investment. Research local competitors and start competitively.
How many cars can I detail per day?
Most mobile detailers complete 4-8 cars daily, depending on service level and travel time. Basic washes take 1-2 hours, while full details require 3-5 hours per vehicle.
What are ongoing expenses for mobile detailing?
Key expenses include supplies (10-20% of revenue), fuel costs, equipment maintenance, insurance ($2,000-4,000 annually), vehicle maintenance, and replacement equipment reserves.
How do I find mobile detailing customers?
Effective strategies include social media marketing, local advertising, partnerships with car dealers and offices, referral programs, online booking platforms, and consistent quality service for repeat customers.
What insurance do I need for mobile car detailing?
Essential coverage includes general liability, commercial auto, equipment coverage, and garage keeper's liability. Budget $3,000-6,000 annually depending on coverage levels and location.
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Results are estimates for informational purposes only. Consult professionals for important decisions.