Setting Up Trailers at Events

Photo courtesy PolyJohn, PolyJohn

Turning your portable restroom trailers into money-makers isn’t just about attracting clients. It involves proper setup so every event is a success. Professional positioning, upsells, and thoughtful touches add value. Getting the installation right from the get-go also protects your assets and helps score repeat customers. Let’s go over the basics of setting up trailers at events, including suggesting upsells and ensuring it’s done correctly every time.

The Basics of Trailer Setup

Before renting your trailer, discuss site requirements with your customer. Many units need a dedicated 120-volt power supply and an external freshwater source. Some models provide onboard batteries for essential systems, but these typically won’t power the water heater.

When setting up trailers, look for level and firm ground. The trailer could sink or damage soft or grassy areas, making it harder to remove. Use stabilizing jacks to position the unit securely. You will connect your city water supply hose to the trailer connection and purge air. Then, plug it into the electrical system or generator.

Best Practices for Setting Up Trailers at Events

Streamline setup and increase the appeal of your restroom trailers by educating your staff and clients on proper site placement, configuration, and troubleshooting. Being proactive can save a lot of trouble down the road.

Educate end users and employees by:

• Creating a visual diagram that shows clients (and new drivers) how much space is needed for servicing trailers.
• Providing a quick troubleshooting guide to common issues, such as a non-functioning light or a minor clog, while highlighting the value of your 24-hour emergency service.
• Collaborating with the event planner to evaluate the site and ensure optimal placement at large and/or high-traffic spaces.
• Developing a trailer setup checklist for drivers tailored to their experience level and reminding them to document any site placement concerns.

Upselling Opportunities for Portable Restroom Businesses

Show clients the upsells that add value to their event and personalize your messaging to demonstrate that you understand their needs.

Consider upselling these convenience packages for events:

• Essential utilities: Sites without electrical or water hookups benefit from portable generators and freshwater tanks. Consider also using or recommending fencing to protect power and water supplies and ensure event success.
• Family-friendly add-ons: When kids are involved, tailor your messaging and care kits to families. Event planners have fewer worries when your team places the portable step stool for the sinks, diaper disposal bags, and wipes.
• Exterior comfort stations: To avoid long lines at events, consider installing hand sanitizer or portable sink stations outside the trailer. This reduces bottlenecks inside the unit and can improve the overall flow at the event.
• Personal care kits: Promote thoughtful touches for upscale or formal events. These options might include high-quality hand soap or sanitizer dispensers, air fresheners, feminine products, mints, gum, or battery-operated candles.
• Enhanced decor packages: In addition to top luxury trailer amenities, you can offer landscaping options like privacy screens, faux bushes, and lighting to enhance the exterior. These only take a few minutes to set up but can help differentiate your business from competitors.

Promote Professionalism and Convenience

Trailers fit into many business models and are a huge hit at events. Setting them up correctly and efficiently not only protects your investment but also presents a positive image of your brand. And when you can add value, whether perceived or through upsells, customer satisfaction can increase.

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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