How to Open a Car Wash Business

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:OpenCarWashBusiness
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How to Open a Car Wash Business

Introduction

Everybody's car gets dirty; getting them to pay to get it washed is the tough part.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

1

Step One

Find a location that needs a car wash. A high-profile location, such as a busy street with good visibility, is a necessity for a business such as this to succeed.
2

Step Two

Contact the city or county department that handles business licenses and request an application.
3

Step Three

Inquire as to what other requirements there are for opening a business. You may be required to provide insurance or follow certain restrictions for the area.
4

Step Four

Contact the Franchise Tax Board to get a wholesale permit, if required. This will allow you to purchase goods without paying taxes if they are to be used in your business.
5

Step Five

Research car washes. Decide whether you want a fully automated car wash or a partially automated one that requires workers to complete part of the washing and drying process.
6

Step Six

Decide if you want to purchase a franchise or open an independent business.
7

Step Seven

Make a business plan. You'll need to have all of the aspects of opening and running the business worked out for the short and long term.
8

Step Eight

Get financing. Unless you have a lot of money lying around, you will need to borrow money to build the business.
9

Step Nine

Advertise your new business. Use creative marketing to draw customers, such as a coupon book or a frequent-washer program.
10

Step Ten

Hope for rain. Rain creates mud, mud makes cars dirty, and you'll make them clean.

Tips & Warnings

  • Consider the ups and downs of the car wash business. There may be certain seasons when people are more or less likely to get their car washed. Expect a seasonal business.
  • Talk to owners of existing car washes. Ask them what problems they've had, what they would do differently if they could, and whether they want to sell their business. Buying an existing business is a lot easier, but could be more expensive.
  • Make your business investments wisely. Don't get soaked.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Business Insurance
  • Business Consultants
  • Business Plan
  • Business Licenses
  • Commercial Real Estate Broker
  • Legal Advice
  • Financial Advisers
  • Business loans
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