First, you need to get the customer's definition of 'detail'. It usually means wash, wax, complete interior cleaning including ArmorAll, engine compartment cleaning, tires and wheels, etc. What combination they want should determine what you charge. Remember that your price should be less than a professional business charges because they have to account for overhead expenses you don't have, other then supplies.

 

when I polish boats for family freinds I normally get them to pay for materials then charge an hourly rate. This I have found is by far the easiest way or you can look at it as if its gonna roughly take 4 Hours to Detail then say $80 Bucks+Materials, If you get the work done faster better for you. Its really all up to how much you feel your work is worth and the customer feels its worth. I have also nodiced that if you price yourself the same as a professional shop the customer will expect a professional finish.

 

With it being a friend of the family. First you want to make sure what all you and him agree on to clean: Your idea of a detail and his idea of a detail may be different. I guess charge around $60-80 for a large truck plus your supplies to be very fair.

 

then you gotta figure what taxes are gonna take out

 

Wow.....

 

Do ya reckon the neighbor's going to fill out a 1099-MISC?

 

haha nope. but i bet a few blazer forum members work with the IRS

 

Thanks for all the input guys! I'll talk to him and get a list of everything he wants done. I know for sure- wash, door jambs, wax, interior detailing, rims, and tires. I'm going to make sure he wants the wheel wells thoroughly cleaned, engine compartment, and possibly a clay barring.