How to Perform a Spring Parts Inventory

Photo courtesy Bonnie Robinson, Rural Septic Services

Having the right parts on hand helps PROs fix units quickly. But you should fully assess your fleet before peak season begins. Doing so helps optimize your current portable restroom usage, plan for upgrades, and handle future repairs.

The right inventory systems also improve your cash flow, allowing you to prioritize part and asset purchases and keep porta-potties in the field. Learn how to assess your fleet and spring into a new season.

Develop Systems for Regular Inventory Checks

Increased visibility gives you more control over your inventory and finances. Inventory and asset systems help you catch minor problems early and ensure technicians complete preventative maintenance. While spreadsheets and equipment maintenance checklists do the job, cloud software is more functional.

Consider your typical portable toilet. How do you know when repair costs (parts and labor) outpace their value? Or which event units need replacing versus moving or retiring? Inventory programs with time- or usage-based tools can alert you to equipment nearing its end of life, including those that may not be on your radar.

Evaluate Your Portable Restrooms

Get ready for a new season by taking stock of your fleet. Use usage, repair status, and costs data to assess each unit. Physically examine your portable toilets by looking at exterior and interior components, such as walls, doors, and roofs. Confirm the status of all portable restrooms and note whether they need major or minor repairs.

Don’t forget to evaluate the units’ physical condition. Even a newer model can take a beating or look shabby. A faded exterior or dented unit may not affect its operation, but it could give new customers a less-than-ideal impression of your brand.

Consider Moving, Repairing, or Retiring Units

Now that you know where each toilet stands, think about its role in your service lines. Think about moving units from your events fleet to your construction line. Can you purchase a new porta-potty to replace it? Likewise, check your construction units. It might be time to retire equipment that consumes too much time and money to fix repeatedly.

Others may only require a new roof or one side to return to your lineup. Refurbishing standard units can help you get a few more years of service. But it’s important to understand what parts you’ll need for repairs and how long it’ll take.

Finalize Your Parts List

Tally the total number of parts required to repair or update current portable restroom units. Next, get an accurate count of your parts inventory. Look at vent screens, door latches, and toilet seats. Remember to account for any recently used but unreported parts and ask drivers to provide truck inventory totals. Also, figure in any components you can use from retired units.

Lastly, get ready for the busy season. Decide how many parts you need on hand for everyday repairs. Calculate the total number of stock-keeping units and price per item to understand the costs of adding inventory.

Prepare for a Seamless Season

Any hiccups during peak season can put you behind. Early preparation gives you an idea of the costs and labor required to update, upgrade, or transfer units. Take steps now to manage your inventory and prioritize tasks for your crew.

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.”