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Photo courtesy Chad Rott, Patriot Portable Restrooms
Increasing your hauling capacity can help your portable restroom company achieve its growth objectives. But not every PRO is ready to buy a new or pre-owned model. Some need a temporary solution, while others prefer to wait until lending conditions improve. To this end, making your own hauling trailer could be a great alternative.
For those with a DIY mindset and the right skills, a standard flatbed trailer frame can be converted into a restroom hauling trailer. However, it’s not without risks. Before tackling a project that will transfer your most valuable business assets, here’s what you need to know.
Make a Restroom Hauling Trailer
The bottom line is that many hauling trailers use a standard flatbed frame. Therefore, you could build your hauling trailer from a snowmobile or ATV trailer designed to hold units of similar weights. Depending on the trailer’s condition, you may need to upgrade the unit floor and remove or alter the sides. Installing an e-track system allows you to tie down your portable restroom units securely.
Before making a restroom hauling trailer, consider these factors:
- How many portable toilets will it hold?
- Are there local regulations regarding hauling trailers?
- Can you easily back the trailer up in challenging locations?
- What does the loading and unloading process involve?
- Are you sure the trailer, wheels, and tires can handle the weight?
- Do you want space for a toolbox or accessories?
Benefits of Making a Restroom Hauling Trailer
For small PRO businesses, affordability and flexibility are key advantages of designing a hauling trailer. For a quick fix, you can make a unit to transport a few restrooms to a new customer in a pinch or drop off several toilets on a route. It’s possible to find a good deal on trailers through local marketplaces, word-of-mouth, and auctions. You may need to replace tires, rotted boards, or sections, but the cost is minimal compared to purchasing a new trailer.
Portable restroom operators wanting a long-term solution can reinforce their hauling trailer and customize it for additional benefits. While this approach takes more time initially, it can make it easier to load and unload units properly, ultimately paying off in the long run.
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Drawbacks of DIY Hauling Trailers
The lowest-priced solution may not be the best option when hauling your money-makers. This could be the case if you’re not familiar with building a trailer or if the costs of tools, materials, and equipment edge closer to the cost of a new or pre-owned restroom trailer. Indeed, strapless transportation options can cost less than $10,000, making them an affordable alternative to pricier models.
Pre-built trailers are designed for safety and efficiency, two elements that are critical to scaling your portable restroom business. Many manufactured units have ramps for easy loading and unloading or allow technicians to lower the toilets to ground level. Others have a removable towing tongue, which eliminates the trip hazard. Pre-built trailers also comply with local and national regulations.
Transporting Restrooms Safely and Cost-Effectively
Thanks to YouTube and innovative PROs, business owners can learn how to make a hauling trailer from a standard frame. This solution is an affordable way to transport multiple restrooms. However, backing up and loading or unloading units can be challenging. Consider all options and your team’s safety before taking the next steps.
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.”