Optimize Your Car Sharing Business: 5 Ways to Make the Most of a Slow Season
Closely intertwined with the travel industry, car sharing is a highly seasonal venture. Having this in mind, it is no wonder that the end of October in our community group was marked by posts such as this one:
Turo Demand Index Check!
Chicago South Burbs sitting at a cool 50% today. How is your market?
In an attempt to better understand the slowdown, our customers turned to the Turo Demand Index. As they compared the demand in different areas it became evident that most markets had entered the slow season.
The truth is that the next spike in demand is not expected before Christmas and New Year’s Day, so the CarSync team is here to offer you some ideas for making the most of a slow time.
1. Polish up your listings 🚗
Start with your listings. What renters see first is your photos and description of your car, so do your best to create the right impression. Take high-quality photos — as the saying goes, a picture is worth one thousand words.
Still, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pair your photos with a thorough description. Highlight appealing car features, such as leather seats, sunroof, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Include in the description if you offer delivery to popular or guest-selected locations. In case you lack inspiration check out some top-performing listings, and the ideas may come to you.
2. Automate your car sharing business using CarSync! 🚀
Invest time now to save time later. Setting up automations will help you remain organized and efficient once it becomes hectic again.
By automating your messages to renters, you will gain back over two-thirds of your time spent on redundant typing. These step-by-step instructions will help you set up the functionality in no time ➡️ https://youtu.be/YX4rneJ7Gi4.
Another major pain point — tolls. With CarSync you can automate the entire reimbursement process. If you can’t see your agency on the ever-growing list of those supported by CarSync, note that we’re constantly adding new integrations prioritizing those that are requested most.
3. Plan maintenance to minimize losses
When it comes to routine vehicle maintenance, understanding the seasonality of your market will help you prevent revenue loss.
It’s simple — make sure you schedule regular maintenance when it’s slow, as you don’t want to be at a loss due to your car sitting at the repair shop when there are bookings to be had.
Also, as the next sharp increase in demand is expected around Christmas and New Year’s Day, make certain that your car is winter-ready
4. Include extras to boost your earnings
Offer your guests a more complete adventure by including extras. Check the approved list and upgrade your listings with those that are popular in your area.
If you’re unsure what your guests might like to add for their trip, go for most booked extras such as post-trip cleaning and unlimited miles, or a child safety seat.
5. Pro tip: optimize the prices with the CarSync Turo Demand Index⚡
The CarSync Turo Demand Index allows insight into demand up to three months ahead. Check the percent of currently booked vehicles and find out how the winter holidays are doing in your area, observe asking and booked prices and adjust your prices accordingly.
Make the most of CarSync’s amazing features!
All things considered, the general advice for all hosts would be not to slow down during a slowdown. Instead, do some effective marketing of your listings, review your earnings and expenses, or automate your business with CarSync’s amazing features. Even if you’re in the market with steady or rising demand, such as California or Florida, these suggestions can still help you capitalize on winter holidays.
