How the calculator works
labor = hours × size multiplier × target hourly × (1 + condition)
price = labor + product cost + travel fee, rounded up to the nearest $5.
It also shows effective profit per hour after product and an estimate of drive time (at 30 mph average), so you can see what a job is really worth.
How to price travel for mobile detailing
- Free radius + per-mile fee: e.g. first 10 miles free, then $1.50/mile one way.
- Zones: flat fees by distance band (0–10, 10–20, 20–30 miles).
- Minimum job size for far-away customers.
Whatever you choose, show it as its own line on the quote so customers understand it.
Why profit per hour matters
Two $200 jobs aren't equal if one takes 3 hours and the other takes 5 plus a 40-minute drive. Effective profit per hour = (price − product − travel costs) ÷ (job hours + drive hours).
Revenue by month
From a Job Log (Monthly Summary tab)
Track real numbers, then re-price
Estimates drift from reality. Log each job's actual hours, product and tips and check your monthly $/hour. DetailTab's Job Log and Monthly Summary do this automatically.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I charge for mobile detailing travel?
A common approach is a free radius (for example 10 miles) and a per-mile fee beyond it, or flat distance zones. Price it to cover drive time and vehicle cost.
Is mobile detailing priced higher than shop detailing?
Often, because mobile detailers spend time driving and bring their own water and power. Your own costs should decide.
Is this calculator free?
Yes. The full DetailTab kit ($19, one-time) adds saved price menus, quotes, invoices, a job log and monthly summaries.
Stop guessing. Quote in under a minute.
The DetailTab Pricing & Quote Kit: Quote Builder, Invoice, Price Menu, Job Log, Customers and Monthly Summary for Excel and Google Sheets. $19 one-time, no subscription.