In this guide we break down real prices for new and used grooming vans, equipment costs, and what to expect when starting a mobile dog grooming business.
Average Cost of a Mobile Grooming Van
Mobile grooming vans vary dramatically in price depending on the vehicle, build quality, and installed equipment. Some groomers start with trailers or DIY conversions; others buy professionally built vans.
| Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Used DIY Conversion | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Used Professional Grooming Van | $40,000 – $75,000 |
| New Grooming Van | $90,000 – $150,000+ |
| Grooming Trailer Setup | $15,000 – $40,000 |
What Equipment Is Inside a Grooming Van?
Mobile grooming vans are essentially small grooming salons on wheels. Most include everything a traditional salon has but packed into a compact space.
- Professional grooming tub
- Hydraulic grooming table
- Fresh water and grey water tanks
- Generator or lithium power system
- Dryers and vacuum systems
- Air conditioning and heating
- Cabinets and storage
Why Mobile Grooming Vans Are Expensive
The van cost is more than the base vehicle. It includes plumbing, electrical systems, generators, insulation, cabinetry, and specialized grooming equipment.
Professional conversion companies can spend hundreds of hours building each van.
How Long Does It Take To Pay Off a Grooming Van?
Many mobile groomers charge between $80 and $150 per appointment depending on location. With 6–8 grooms per day, revenue can exceed $500 daily.
With consistent bookings, many mobile grooming businesses recover the cost of their van within 1–3 years.
Should You Buy New or Used?
Both have trade-offs. New vans offer reliability and warranty coverage. Used vans are cheaper, but require careful inspection of plumbing, generator hours, and maintenance history.
Before buying used, inspect:
- Generator hours
- Water system leaks
- Electrical wiring
- Rust or body damage
- Maintenance records
Where To Find Mobile Grooming Vans For Sale
Most vans are sold through Facebook groups, private sellers, or specialty marketplaces. Finding them in one place can be difficult.
Final Thoughts
A mobile grooming van is the largest investment for many new groomers. It is significant, but manageable with proper pricing and operations.
With the right location, pricing, and marketing strategy, many mobile grooming businesses become profitable with one van.