Starting a Mobile Detailing business in NY

**Pellegrino** · 12-11-2013, 10:41 AM

Hey everyone! Im going to be starting a mobile detailing business this spring wanted to know if there was any licensing or permits needed in NY. Also just starting out of any one have any advice what I should buy as far as top of line, detailing trailers or just a simple setup? Final question I noticed people in my area are using eco friendly products are those available on this site and which ones would be the best. Thank you everyone looking forward to hearing from you.

**Legacykid** · 12-11-2013, 11:22 AM

Hey and welcome,

Your best bet is to take a look around the site there is a wealth of information to be had. You have time before you get started but take a look at Mikes threads thats where I got started and most of my questions were answered. He and others on here have videos on youtube makes things a lot easier to understand.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/...-autogeek.html

**Pellegrino** · 12-11-2013, 11:46 AM

Thanks I will start there!

**Scott@IncrediblyDetailed** · 12-11-2013, 12:47 PM

It sounds like you need to write a business plan.

**215Detailing** · 12-11-2013, 01:26 PM

This may help:
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/...ng-mobile.html

**Meticulous-Detail** · 12-11-2013, 02:50 PM

Originally Posted by Pellegrino

Hey everyone! Im going to be starting a mobile detailing business this spring wanted to know if there was any licensing or permits needed in NY. Also just starting out of any one have any advice what I should buy as far as top of line, detailing trailers or just a simple setup? Final question I noticed people in my area are using eco friendly products are those available on this site and which ones would be the best. Thank you everyone looking forward to hearing from you.

No licensing or permits as far as I know, just proper business and vehicle insurance . As far as a setup up I would look into a Ford Transit Connect for a mobile detailing vehicle or something good on gas. Going mobile in NYC with a big setup is going to kill you in gas, tolls and insurance.

Plenty of eco-friendly products on AG, do some searches and read some reviews. If your detailing for dollars you might not want to go top of the line on everything. Look into Meguairs Detailiers Line, great products for a great price and will not break the bank.

Mike Phillips · 12-11-2013, 02:55 PM

If you haven't read Renny Doyle's book, I'd start by reading it. Read through it 2-3 times and think about the info presented...

Personal Recommendation
For anyone reading this, if you're thinking about getting into the detailing business, before you do anything, order a copy of Renny's book and read it cover to cover 2-3 times and let every word, every idea, suggestion and real-world life story from Renny and everyone that contributed sink in. By the time you really digest what Renny share in his book you'll know inside if detailing as a business is the right choice for you.

How to Start a Home-based Car Detailing Business

I was honored to be one of the guest speakers at Renny's Detailer's Summit meeting in Las Vegas this year, he's a great guy and also teaches very good classes on starting a detailing business.

Shout out to Renny Doyle! - Thank you!

**Pellegrino** · 12-11-2013, 07:31 PM

Thanks everyone I appreciate all the help. I am reading that book as we speak it is great and learning a lot.

**TopThatDetail** · 12-11-2013, 07:40 PM

It's a great book

**WillWashesCars** · 12-11-2013, 07:56 PM

NY has some water regulations which you can get when you go an apply for permit and licensing information. Some regions have ordinances in which you may need to apply locally to be allowed to use water during certain hours.

It's a fun business, but be sure to learn the actual trade before attempting to go and create a business out of it. It's difficult to learn a trade (detailing) while also learning another trade (business).

Best of luck!