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Photo courtesy Matthew Lake, Gotta Go
Every portable restroom operator has different needs.
The equipment needed by an established, large PRO, for instance, may not be needed by a start-up or smaller operation.
Most portable sanitation companies use pumper trucks, which are specially designed for waste removal and fresh water supply. While these trucks are the most efficient option, other companies use an alternative known as a “slide-in” unit.
This article will cover the differences between pumper trucks and slide-in units and provide some recommendations on where to get one for your growing company.
The Benefits of a Slide-in Vacuum Tank
Although pumper trucks can handle a higher volume and are more efficient for more established businesses, some portable restroom operators aren’t ready to make that kind of investment in the beginning.
Slide-in units are helpful because they can be put in any sized pickup truck and they’re ideal for small businesses or start-ups.
The vacuum units are literally “slid” into the back of the pickup, which can also be removed to allow PROs to haul portable toilets back and forth from sites.
As they grow, most portable restroom businesses will likely upgrade to full-scale pumper trucks, yet these slide-in units can still be utilized by those wanting to stay flexible.
Slide-in Tank vs. Pumper Truck: A Guide for PROs
While operation size typically dictates whether a PRO uses slide-in tanks or pumper trucks, there are other factors to consider.
Pumpers are for sheer volume. They can collect anywhere from 300 to 4,000 gallons of wastewater while slide-ins will keep you limited to below 1,000 gallons.
While slide-ins are more cost-efficient for start-ups, there are cases where special venues are limited in size and truck access. Therefore, a large company would need slide-ins to be able to serve that specific client.
Pumper trucks are a major investment and will be your company’s most expensive equipment on the books (to purchase and maintain).
Other truck factors you’ll want to consider include the safety and comfort of your cab, GVWR, fuel type, tank material (steel, aluminum, or carbon), tank size, and pump type.
Pumper trucks are a game-changer but you’ll still want to keep some slide-ins around for specialty jobs.
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Top Slide-in Pump Manufacturers
There are several places to invest in your own slide-in vacuum tank. Here, we have compiled a short list of suppliers that may offer the perfect unit for your operation:
Each manufacturer offers a variety of options. Our suggestion would be to think about your operation and what specific tasks you’ll need to complete day-to-day, as well as the size of your inventory.
This could help you decide which slide-in is best suited for your company.
Want To Try a Slide-In?
Whether you’re launching your own portable toilet business from scratch or thinking about how to expand your current operation, slide-ins can work for you!
They’re perfect for start-ups with a limited budget, but more established businesses also benefit from having some in their inventory.
You never know what type of job you’ll get next so it’s smart to have small and large solutions.
Visit our site to learn more about PRO trucks, equipment, and technology.
Looking to Take Your Portable Restroom Business to the NEXT LEVEL? Download our FREE Guide: “Your Guide to Operating A Portable Restroom Business.”
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