Need a recommendation on pricing

**bcgreen** · 04-21-2017, 09:38 AM

I very rarely detail other people's vehicles, but recently someone asked if I would detail her 2016 black Mini convertible that is parked outside only. I am not in L.A. so I cannot charge what someone would charge there. I am in a resort area in northern Idaho. Her vehicle is parked outside all the time, but does not have major flaws. I estimate it will take me a couple of days to do this job - wash, clay, mask, polish and sealant/wax.
How would you handle the top - waterproof coating(Scotchguard or RaggTopp) or just a cleaner and conditioner?

**brettS4** · 04-21-2017, 09:48 AM

A couple days for a Mini? Would it take a week to do a SUV?

**custmsprty** · 04-21-2017, 09:54 AM

Originally Posted by brettS4

A couple days for a Mini? Would it take a week to do a SUV?

I have to agree with Brett, I would think you should be able to complete that "little mini" in 4-5 hours, 6 max.

I would charge a neighbor, friend etc. $250.00 knowing I can do it in a few hours.

That would not include the convertible top, I would charge extra for that, probably $100-$150.00

**bcgreen** · 04-21-2017, 10:18 AM

I am not a professional detailer, I just enjoy keeping my vehicles looking like I am getting ready for a concourse event. It has always been that way for me - it just takes me longer to complete the job to perfection. You guys have vastly more experience at this and time for you is money.
I had in the back of my mind to charge around $220 so I wasn't too far off including the top.

**Paul A.** · 04-21-2017, 10:40 AM

$220 may not be a bad price but don't go any lower. And...takes as much time as you need to give her what she expects.

I have always like the RaggTopp line of products for convert tops. And a good brush!

**2wookies** · 04-21-2017, 10:41 AM

What level does the customer want the car? Or are you volunteering your services?

**bcgreen** · 04-21-2017, 10:44 AM

Originally Posted by brettS4

A couple days for a Mini? Would it take a week to do a SUV?

Well, yes. Perfection on black.

**bcgreen** · 04-21-2017, 10:45 AM

Originally Posted by 2wookies

What level does the customer want the car? Or are you volunteering your services?

She wants it to be like mine. Pleased to do it as a friend.

**2wookies** · 04-21-2017, 10:48 AM

lol I hate when a customer says that, now not all are friends and I get that. But for a friend price use this opportunity to replenish supplies if needed, have her buy some pads then charge her accordingly to what you feel comfortable with.

**custmsprty** · 04-21-2017, 10:55 AM

Do you currently have the products you need to do the top? I don't so if it were me I'd have her pay for those and charge her extra to do the top as I'd probably never use those products again.

I also don't do this as my full time job, I just don't enjoy working on a vehicle for 10-12+ hours and my back wouldn't tolerate it either.

She wants it to be like yours but will she run it through a car wash the following week?

I did this Z for a neighbor last year. I did a follow up wash and quick wax about 4 months later and it was already exhibiting swirls, scratches etc.

5 hours start to finish (and that included a quick interior wipe down with Slk Shine), 90-95+ % perfected in one step. I enjoyed the experience, it was the first time I used HD Adapt and the look on the owners face when he saw the finished vehicle was priceless.

2014 Nissan 370 Z Griots G21 HD Adapt 7 HD Poxy