Automotive decorative trim is offered in a variety of styles, finishes and the car trim can be in the form of car exterior trim or automotive trim molding. Whether you decide to offer automobile side moulding, automobile trim molding or automotive door edge molding, you can build your customer base by offering top quality automotive door trim.

In order to offer quality automotive trim to customers, you need to be specific about the trim you will offer or order, find reputable automobile trim manufacturers and suppliers and be competitive in pricing, practices and guaranteeing your work.

1. Survey your service crew about the types the automotive trims you should offer and install.

2. Find a reputable automobile trim manufacturer and/or supplier that offers strong customer service.

3. Put together installation prices, policies and warranties for your customers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Specify the automotive trims you will offer and install

There are many different automotive trim options available. While, most of them can be narrowed down depending on the make, model and year of the vehicle you are installing the trim on, you should have specific services you provide. To choose these, look at the most common automotive trim installed and offer it in an area not covered by local competition. Also, take a look at industry information to find out the most popular styles of automotive trim for daily drivers, show cars, race cars and other car cultures.

I recommend: Some of the most common trim pieces are down the body, along the doors and fender pieces. These are all offered by the major manufacturers, like Trimco. They also offer supplies for the installation of trim pieces. Siegel-Robert Automotive is the largest manufacturer of plastic chrome-plated trim pieces in the US and all of North America.

Find a reputable automobile trim manufacturer or supplier

It is important to find an automobile trim manufacturer or supplier who offers a large variety of trim pieces in an array of finishes, including chrome, stainless, brushed or powder coated. You also want to work with a manufacturer of automotive exterior trim who is reliable and has a solid reputation in the industry and a strong company background.

I recommend: Dorrie International is an industry leader in seals and decorative trim for the past 40 years. They offer interior and exterior trim and have them categorized by finish. Decor Products, Inc. have been in business since 1969 and pride themselves on their attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.

Put together installation prices, policies and warranties for the car trim you install or sell

Compare installation prices among other trim installers in your area to make sure you price competitively. Also, take into consideration the prices, including shipping, you are paying for the trim pieces. This is often invoiced separately from the labor cost, since the trim will need to be ordered before the work is performed. Also, put into place a policy on how the installing will take place and your guarantee for the work. The policies you already have in place may include this, but it never hurts to double check.

I recommend: AUTOMEGA is a division of Custom Auto Trim & Graphics, Inc. and has a solid installation and purchasing warranty that could be a great base to jump from. Mr. Auto Trim offers a warranty on the labor itself, which can save customers time and money after the job is completed and something goes wrong.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When you change policies and installation practices for automotive trim, make sure to carry it through by updating the employee manuals and training guidelines.