If you’re new to the car wash business, you’re in for a wild ride and a steep learning curve. Car washing, like any other industry, has its own set of difficulties and peculiarities. There are many different aspects to our company, and you must become well-versed in all of them to achieve maximum success.
To make things a little simpler for you, here are some things worth noting:
1. Construct with the Long Term in Mind
You may not have the financial means to construct the car wash of your dreams, but you may save money in the long run by putting the pieces in place now rather than later. Purchase a property that is large enough to accommodate your ideal car wash. Install more conduit for the pay station you want to install. Include the electricity for the top brush that you want to use. You will save both time and money if you do all you can now to make such changes possible later.
2. Your Tunnel Needs Continual Monitoring
Maintaining optimum performance in your tunnel operations regularly will help to guarantee the most excellent wash quality. While going through the tunnel at the beginning, end, and many times during the day, you should do “shadow washes” to search for the following things:
- Errors that occur with the equipment,
- Retract issues,
- Equipment that isn’t tightly secured,
- Welds that have cracked, and
- Leaks in the hydraulic system or the air system.
The ability to stay on top of problems may help to minimize downtime and increase customer satisfaction. Be mindful of the possibility of many others who remained silent but will not return to your facility for every client who complains about your service.
3. Don’t Disregard Full-Service Contracts Unless They Are Required
While full-service car washes are less popular these days, there is still a need for them. Full-service car washes are more costly and time-consuming to operate, but they may be just as lucrative as self-service car washes. Take into consideration your location and target market.
How effectively does your facility accommodate the processing of large numbers of vehicles? If this is the case, full-service may be a preferable choice. Do you know anything about the demographics of your area? Full-service models may do well in more affluent areas where there are a large number of high-end cars. Determine which wash would most likely perform best for your design and make the most of it.
4. Always Ask Questions
Don’t give up if you come across obstacles when getting your project started. That is especially true when dealing with local governments. If your property is not appropriately zoned for a car wash, it may seem as if the game is over, but you may be able to get a variance. If you have a valid case, you will most likely be able to have the variance approved. Another problem that operators often encounter is the restriction on the size and placement of signage. In addition, there are methods to get around this, such as by complementing your primary sign with other signs. Make sure you do your research and seek innovative solutions.
5. Promotional Activities Should Not Be Treated as an Afterthought
Don’t wait till your volume doesn’t reach your expectations before taking action. Prepare your marketing plan before you even step foot in the door. There are many options for promoting your new company, including door hangers, internet advertisements, collaborations with your local chamber of commerce, social media postings, and more.
One of the most effective strategies is to start with complimentary washes. It is entirely up to you how long you will provide free washes and how many you will give away, but most washes that are successful from the start give away some washes at least initially. The benefit of this approach is that it doesn’t need spending a lot of money on marketing; word-of-mouth performs the majority of the heavy lifting for you.
Final Thoughts
Starting any enterprise, particularly a brick-and-mortar car wash equipped with cutting-edge equipment, is a complicated and intimidating task. It does, however, have a lot of promise and would profit from the growing automobile industry. If done correctly, this kind of cleaning business is simple and has a steady stream of clients.
Are you looking for a reliable car wash equipment supplier for your business’ logistical needs? Complete Car Wash Solutions is your best option. We can provide you with the resources you need to launch your business smoothly and effectively. Contact us right away!
