I am Looking to start a business in washing semi trucks any hints and knowledge for me?

Question

I am in a young entrepreneurs class and this idea has got the attention of all of my instructors and program supporters in Michigan Works. But I hve to write a business Plan and I Don't Know how much washing and Detailing is going to cost me so I can put it in the business plan.

Answer 1

Find a niche that others don't offer and fill it.

Buy, beg or borrow "Uncommon Carriers" by John McPhee (2006, pub by Farrar, Straus and Giroux) and read 2 short chapters about McPhee's cab rides with owner-operator Don Ainsworth as he travels from Altanta to Tacoma.

You will find the book is a 'good read' (McPhee is a Pulizter winner.)

Don Ainsworth owns his tractor and stainless-steel liquids trailer (hazmat-capable) and is very particular who he allows to wash it inside and out. He looks for wash stations that use de-ionized water so that the exterior of his tank will not have any water spots after rinsing. And he has to go miles out of his way to find interior tank wash stations which can handle the remainders of hazardous liquids (chemicals, WD-40, etc.) that were once carried inside.

I'm not saying that's what you should do, but it's another way to look at a business - to be different from all the rest.

Answer 2

Establish the cost of buying the pressure washer and the van to move it around. Work out how long it will take to wash a truck. and how many you will need to recover your outlay over 6 months.
You then know how much to charge each operator to clean a truck, then you establish as to whether an operator would pay that money and what is his alternatives... then you do the marketing plan!

Answer 3

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!