Detailers usually price by package and vehicle size, then add condition fees for heavy pet hair, stains, odors or very dirty exteriors. Maintenance plans at a lower per-visit price keep the schedule full, while paint correction and coatings are quoted after an inspection.
Sample package menu
| Package | Includes | Pricing logic |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance wash | Hand wash, wheels, quick interior vacuum | Plan price every two to four weeks |
| Interior detail | Vacuum, shampoo, steam, plastics, glass | By size, plus pet hair or stain fees |
| Exterior detail | Decontamination wash, clay, sealant | By size |
| Full detail | Interior and exterior | Package price by size |
| Paint correction | One or more polishing steps | Quote after inspection |
| Ceramic coating | Prep, correction, coating | Quote with warranty terms |
| Add-ons | Headlights, engine bay, odor treatment | Flat per add-on |
Worked example: quoting a family SUV
A customer books a full detail for a three-row SUV with dog hair and juice stains. Carlos's booking form asks for photos. He quotes the full detail for a large vehicle plus a pet hair fee and a stain treatment add-on, and notes that some stains may not fully lift. The customer approves before the visit, so there are no surprises.
Mistakes
- One price for all vehicle sizes
- Absorbing pet hair time for free
- Selling coatings without explaining maintenance
Pricing coatings
Ceramic coating jobs vary widely because paint condition determines how much correction is needed before coating. Inspect under good light, measure paint depth where appropriate, and quote correction plus coating as a package. Explain the product's stated durability, the maintenance it needs and the warranty terms. Avoid promising results beyond what the manufacturer states.
Sample add-on list
| Add-on | Notes |
|---|---|
| Pet hair removal | Priced by severity from photos |
| Odor treatment | Smoke and spills |
| Headlight restoration | Per pair |
| Engine bay clean | On request |
| Clay bar treatment | Before sealant |
Explaining condition fees
Condition fees are where most disputes start. Explain on the website and at booking that heavy pet hair, sand, stains, mold or smoke odor take extra time and products, and that you confirm any fee from photos before the visit. If the vehicle is worse than the photos showed, call or text before starting with the revised price. Clients accept fees they agreed to; they resent surprises.
What affects your price
- Vehicle size
- Condition
- Package
- Add-ons
Free tools
Common questions
Should I post prices?
Starting prices by size and package help customers choose.
How do condition fees work?
Explain them on the site and confirm from photos before the visit.
Do maintenance plans work?
Yes; they create steady income and keep cars easier to clean.
How do I price coatings?
Quote after inspection, including the paint correction needed.
What if a client refuses a condition fee?
Offer a lighter service within the original price, or reschedule; don't start work without agreement.
Should prices differ for trucks and SUVs?
Yes; larger vehicles take more time and product.
Should I offer fleet rates?
Yes, for regular volume.
Show your services and connect customers to your booking provider
Your service menu, prices if you show them, photos and a booking button that goes straight to the booking tool you already use.
See salon and booking websites