Did you know that, according to the Houston Chronicle, profits can range from $55,000 to $100,000 per year for a self-service car wash to $500,000 to $900,000 for a full-service business? That is a significant number to think about! If you’ve ever considered getting into the car wash business, now you have more reason to do so. However, as it is with any business pursuit, it’s often easier said than done. This is because there are many aspects that need to be considered, from finding the best location to getting consistent supplies down to drawing potential clients in your area.
Fret not, as we’ve prepared a rundown of five practical tips on how to start your car wash business and help it grow and succeed over time by setting up a car wash system:
1. Know everything about a car wash
When it comes to a car wash business, you may think of the car wash set-up, water supply, cleaning tools and solutions, and employees doing the job. However, there’s more to the workflow than you might expect. You will also have to factor in variables, such as financing, construction, zoning rules and permits, marketing, employee hiring, and so much more. For this reason, be sure to learn everything you need about the car wash business, which means conducting research and performing due diligence before taking the plunge.
2. Seek professional help and assistance
It’s best to seek help from the professionals or those who have already been running a car wash business for some time. The whole process entails checking references, visiting car wash sites, and talking to the operators, and be sure to learn as much as you can from the experts. Another way to learn is to gain insider information from LinkedIn car wash industry groups. You can get some valuable tips from industry publications, such as Auto Laundry News and Professional Carwashing & Detailing.
3. Choose the best location
A critical aspect of the overall success of your car wash business is the location. Choosing the best site can make your car wash accessible to potential drivers who pass by or thrive in the area. Be sure to consider the following attributes: ease of access, ample space, and highly-travelled street or road. When you consider these factors, you’ll be surprised at how clients can easily find you or how you can quickly reach out to your potential clients.
4. Select the right manufacturers and suppliers
Apart from the location, you have to consider the manufacturers and suppliers you will be working with as well. Keep in mind that certain manufacturers are more likely to provide you with the best tools and pieces of equipment for your business. On the other hand, other suppliers will provide you with the chemicals and solutions required for cleaning. When choosing your manufacturers and suppliers, be sure to strike a balance between quality and affordability.
5. Understand the competition in your local area
When it comes to making your business thrive, you must first be wary of the competition in your locality because there might be a handful of car wash sites nearby. While it helps to choose the best location with minimal competition, strive to create unique selling points (USP) that will make you stand out in the industry. Ultimately, it all boils down to delivering quality services so that clients will keep on coming back to you.
Conclusion
Starting a car wash business can be a bit complicated. Yet, you can ease this complexity by knowing what a car wash entails, seeking professional help and assistance, choosing the best location, selecting the right manufacturers and suppliers, and understanding your competition. With all these factors in mind, you’ll set your car wash business in the right footing and make sure it will grow and succeed in the long run!
We’re a car wash builder and supplier that develop and design car washes for the Canadian industry. If you are looking for a car wash for sale in Calgary, get in touch with us today to see how we can help!
