How to charge

[Wayneezy]

So I am thinking of starting something on the side. I have some stuff to learn but I know I can make it successful. I am a well known sales person in the city were I reside and already have family and a few customers coming too me.

I am curious what people think. I was throwing around the idea of having a check list of different think people would like done and charging an hourly rate. Is this a good idea or should I stick to pre made packages. Thanks in advance

[mhphoto]

I've never been a fan of hourly rates, whether it be for my detailing or portrait photography. I'm too big of a perfectionist and spend way too much time on simple things sometimes, so it can get really unfair for the customer considering how anal I am about the small details. Flat rate suits me. They get quality work and don't have to worry about me doing the equivalent of driving the cab around the block a few times to run up the meter.

[Sommy]

I think packages are the way to go. Most of us on here understand all the different types of detailing and could handle an a la carte type pricing structure, but probably not so much the layman.

[Wayneezy]

Is there examples on here of packages already ? I have some put together that i would like to compare too.

As well if i offer packages do you offer things like headlight restoration and polishing/swirl removal etc on the side at an additional cost ??

[rustytruck]

You can look at some of the detailers on this site. A bunch of us have links to our websites or Facebook pages. Do a Google search in your area for auto detailers see what they charge. I do not like the hourly charge.