Mobile vs In-House Car Detailing
Mobile car detailing and in-house car detailing are two services offered by detailers that provide the same result, with different pros and cons between the two. They end goal is the same, however; to provide the client with a restored and clean vehicle in as efficient and effective of a manner as possible. Here on the Sunshine Coast, both are largely popular and are currently in high demand, especially as the Coast is getting bigger.
What’s the difference between mobile and in-house car detailing, and their advantages?
The two services are largely similar, with variations. Mobile car detailing is as it sounds: a detail that comes to you at your convenience. An in-house car detail, on the other hand, features a dedicated shop, typically designed for mass-detailing, taht houses all of the necessary tools, products, resources and space to serve multiple clients at once.
Mobile detailing is marketed as more convenient and flexible for the client, as there is more freedom for them to choose their ideal timeframe instead of a shop’s structured hours. It’s usually also a nice time-saver as it allows the client to be home. Sometimes this may be an inconvenience, but for those who work from home or very near to home, this can be a lifesaver for them. Typically a mobile car detailing service requires little more from the client than power and water access, and shade where possible. Some detailers are even able to provide their own on-site power and water supplies for maximum convenience. Customer relationships are important to any detailer, and when you are arriving at their home to provide a service for them, these relationships can be quite dynamic and special. A happy customer who feels valued and appreciated is more likely to refer business services to their friends and family. Everybody wins in a scenario like this!
In-house, or in-shop detailing, is much the same, except the client brings their vehicle to the detailer. While not as convenient as a mobile service, it does allow a structured system for the shop, and can often result in a faster turnaround time due to more staff available on-site to work on the vehicle. Some shops even offer courtesy cars for the client to get around in while their car is being detailed. Being without a car can be a massive hassle in today’s age, so offering a workaround solution is a great way to provide customer convenience and have an in-shop detailing service seen as a more attractive option. This allows the shop owner to work in consistent, predictable conditions in an undercover area with all tools and products available on-site.
What are some disadvantages of a mobile detail?
While being convenient and easy for the client, a mobile service can have its drawbacks. Some detailers have their own policies regarding mobile cleaning, such as a requirement for shade in case of rain and/or extreme sun. Being out in the elements can be unpredictable, which is obviously unideal when it comes to business. The more variables that can be controlled, the better. Some services may also not be able to be performed, such as paint correction, when the vehicle is outside. This could be due to the sun drying out polish too quickly or windy conditions blowing dirt and debris all over the car, increasing the risk of scratching the car and causing unnecessary damage while polishing.
When you think about it, there are a lot of things that could go wrong with a mobile car clean. We’ve seen plenty ourselves, from too-steep driveways, to freak storms, to water shutoff due to no tank water. However, convenience is always a desiring factor by consumers, and mobile detailing will always be available.
What are some disadvantages of an in-house detail?
When it comes to a dedicated shop for car cleaning, certain factors can apply that aren’t as prevalent for a mobile car clean. When there are 5-10+ staff working in a shop, the process can become a bit like an assembly line and not as personable as a job-to-job travelling mobile cleaner. It may also be more difficult to build quality relationships with clients when they are just dropping their car off and picking it back up. Prices may also be higher due to the overhead costs associated with running a detailing shop. Power, rent, water, more staff and many other factors are things that need to be considered when operating out of a dedicated shop. Time can also be a factor, as not only is the customer waiting for their car to be detailed, but they also need to travel to and from the shop.
To summarise:
Both mobile and in-house car detailing offer their own benefits and disadvantages. There is no right nor wrong; ultimately it boils down to the preferences and constraints of both the detailing service and the customer. Some prefer to drop their car off at a shop and are not concerned about the drive, while others much prefer to have the mobile detailer come out to them to provide the service at their convenience. It’s apples to apples really, with some slight differences! O’Keefe’s Prestige Detailing offers both in-house and mobile detailing near you. Get in contact with us today to find out how we can best benefit you and your car.