- Count Up increases spend by letting customers control wash time
- Count Down keeps flow steady with fixed-time sessions
- Preset options simplify choices and support upselling
Not all car washes operate the same way, and the way you charge your customers can have a direct impact on how profitable, efficient, and customer-friendly your site is. Whether you’re managing self-serve bays, vacuums, or an express tunnel, the structure of your POS system plays a key role in both your revenue strategy and your customer experience.
Most car wash payment terminals support one or more of the following models: count up, count down, or a series of preset prices or preset packages. Understanding how each one works and where it fits best can help you build a smarter, more adaptable payment system for your business.
There are many ways to structure car wash pricing, but the most commonly used models across North America are count up, count down, a series of preset prices, and preset packages. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of how each model works, where it fits best, and the benefits it can bring to your operation.
Count Up
This model charges customers based on how long they use a bay or service, starting when they begin and ending when they finish; perfect for vacuums, self-serve, or add-ons. This setup offers flexibility and gives customers full control over their wash time, encouraging them to spend a little more naturally as needed. Many operators find that count-up systems increase average transaction values without any need for upselling, with some reporting a jump from around $4 to $12 per self-serve wash.
Count Down
This approach allows customers to select a specific time in advance, pay, and use the equipment for the full duration. It works particularly well in basic self-serve setups where clear, time-based pricing helps keep customer flow steady and equipment available. For operators, the consistent turnover makes it easier to manage bay occupancy and avoid delays, especially during peak hours.
While customers need to be mindful of the time limit, most find the format simple and easy to follow. It’s especially effective when timers and clear signage are in place to set expectations upfront.
Preset Prices
Preset prices offer a quick and straightforward payment option. Customers pay a flat rate for a single service or wash cycle, often used in automatic bays or drive-through systems. These options are ideal for express washes or basic service tiers where simplicity and speed are the priority.
This model keeps the experience fast and easy, minimizing decision-making and helping maintain steady vehicle flow. It also allows operators to clearly define pricing upfront and reduce transaction complexity while still offering a reliable level of service.
Preset Packages
Preset packages go one step further by grouping services into bundles such as basic, deluxe, or premium. Each package includes a specific combination of features — like pre-soak, underbody rinse, wax, and dryer — with a set price that reflects the added value.
These packages are well suited for tunnel systems, full-service operations, or locations looking to promote upselling. Customers benefit from the clarity and perceived value of bundled offerings, while operators can increase average ticket size and streamline loyalty or membership incentives through structured tiers.
Reduce your operating costs with our full suite of payment solutions
Whatever pricing model works best for your location, whether that is flexible count-up billing, time-based count down, or clear tiered packages, the key is having a payment solution that gives you the freedom to adapt. Your POS system needs to be versatile and equipped with the right features to support your growth, helping you serve more customers and increase your revenue over time.
At MONEXgroup, we offer advanced car wash payment solutions built to support every setup, from self-serve bays to full-service tunnels. With industry-leading hardware, remote management tools, and unmatched customer service, we make it easy to create a payment experience that fits your business now and scales with you into the future.
Contact us today to learn how MONEXgroup can help your car wash grow smarter, faster, and more profitably.
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