Photo courtesy Daniel Banks, Buildsmore Wastewater Services
The truck-buying decision can keep any PRO up at night, regardless of how long they’ve been in business. Pumper trucks, flatbeds, and pickups with slide-ins aren’t cheap. And the various options for pumps, tanks, and control panels can make your head spin. You need an efficient portable restroom fleet. But how do you decide which trucks to buy and what options to add?
Start by considering your short and long-term needs. Speak with other PROs and dealers to explore options and costs. Then, weigh the advantages and drawbacks of various trucks and options. Here’s how to start.
A new portable restroom business with a few clients can scrape by with a pickup truck and slide-in unit. However, if those customers typically rent many units at once, a flatbed vehicle and a vacuum truck may work better. Of course, a pumper truck is ideal for high-volume pumping. Drivers can service their regular route and deliver or pick up two portable restrooms. The bottom line is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it’s time for a new truck.
Think about these factors when choosing between a pumper, pickup, and flatbed truck:
Once you’ve decided what type of truck would work best, it’s time to consider the costs and options. However, it’s not only about the price tag. It’s important to understand the lifetime cost of choosing a particular make, model, tank material, or accessory. Along with price quotes, pick the salesperson’s brain to learn how tank, pump, and hose features differ in maintenance and part replacement. Remember to factor in training costs if you’re thinking about trucks and options that your team isn’t familiar with.
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With pricing and dealer information in hand, assess your key considerations again. Did a manufacturer offer details about warranties or local servicing that changed your opinion? Or, did something click when another PRO expressed buyer’s remorse? Continue to build your pros and cons list for each make, model, and option.
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Your portable restroom fleet gives you the capability to service, deliver, and pick up units. In return, you must pay (or train your shop technicians) to maintain and repair it. The same goes for various accessories and options. By weighing your decision against multiple factors, you can improve the truck buying process and get equipment that serves its purpose for many years.
Looking to Take Your Portable Restroom Business to the NEXT LEVEL? Download our FREE Guide: “Your Guide to Operating A Portable Restroom Business.”
Thinking About GETTING INTO the Portable Restroom Industry? Download our FREE Guide: “Your Guide to Starting A Portable Restroom Business.”
1 Comment
How much for the pumper trucks and the portaloos? Where are you guys located