how did you start?
I just decided to do it! Made up a name (Well Impressed) and made myself some flyers. Spent a morning driving round (or walking in your case) all the local newsagents, noticeboards and stuck my cards up. On my cards I put Ironing Service Professional and efficient service 48hr turnaround Prices start from 35p
Then I went home and waited! Phone started ringing within a few days and I just arranged to collect the clothes, ironed them and dropped them off 2 days later.
did you get help with your business plan?
Nope! I was already registered as self employed becausze of bodyshop stuff though.
how did you decide upon a business plan?
did you get any financial help setting up?
Nope, but I think there is some available for new start ups.
how much is needed to set up and what do i need to buy(obviously and iron and ironing board?)
I didnt buy anything at all initially, in time though I bought a steam generator iron which is BRILLIANT. I also bought 700 plastic garment covers for about 28 quid. I cover ever 5 or so shirts with these and it does make it look a lot more professional.
how much to charge?..per bag, per item?
I charge per item :
70p for each item of adult clothes
35p for each item of kids clothes
35p for very small items (tea towels etc)
140p for single bedding
210p for double bedding
280p for king size bedding
I wouldnt do it per hour or bag personally as i think this is more open to misunderstandings on cost.
how many hours did you start on?
I got 2 customers quickly sending alot of stuff so I was initially doing 3-4 hrs of ironing about twice a week until advertising took off
and what is realistic times scale to work to?
When I started I was ultra keen and always did next day service, I would never do same day service but now its nearly always 48hrs or sometimes more with some customers - i have a few that are never in any hurry so just drop that off on my next collection. I collect and delivery for free on all orders over a tenner and a charge if under. If you dont drive just ask the customers to collect from you.
do you iron and return in one day?
NOPE - would always be runnign up my own ar*e if i did! I do offer it as a service for an extra £5 but no one has taken me up on it yet!
Hope some of this helps let me knopw if you need any more info