5 COMMON MISTAKES WHEN PREPARING YOUR SNOW PLOW FOR STORAGE
The trees are budding and the threat of accumulating snow is now behind us. For many snow plowing professionals this means it’s time to shift from snow removal to lawn care – from snow plow to lawn mower. When checking off the storage of your snow plow from your spring “to do” list you will want to keep these common mistakes in mind and avoid them when preparing your snow plow for storage.
Snow Plow Storage Mistake #1: Putting The Snow Plow Away Dirty
Your snow plow has seen the worst of winter weather and no doubt has encountered its fair share of salt and grime during the season. Putting your snow plow into storage without a thorough cleaning is a common mistake made by snow plow owners. To prevent corrosion, always wash your snow plow thoroughly before putting it into storage to remove any excess salt and sand that may have accumulated during the season. If you want to add an extra layer of protection, you may want to consider adding a coating of vehicle wax to the plow.
Snow Plow Storage Mistake #2: Parking The Plow In The Yard
While hiding the snow plow behind the shed in the back yard may seem like a good idea, it’s not the best storage option. Another common mistake is storing the plow under an enclosed tarp. Snow plows are generally made out of steel. Storing the plow on the ground or under a tarp can accelerate the rusting process. To limit rust on your snow plow, keeping your snow plow inside a garage or storage building is your best option. If you do need to store the plow outside, it is recommended that you elevate the plow on a platform so the plow is not directly exposed to the ground. If using a tarp, make sure that air can flow thru and does not allow moisture to become trapped.
Snow Plow Storage Mistake #3: Not Changing The Hydraulic Fluid
Forgoing the changing of the hydraulic fluid is a very common mistake that plow owners make. Many wait until they take their plow out of storage to change the hydraulic fluid. However, this mistake puts the hydraulic system at risk for rust as moisture in the hydraulic system can build up during the season. It is recommended that the hydraulic system be completely drained and new snow plow hydraulic fluid added before storing the plow. Check your snow plow manual for information on the types of hydraulic fluid recommended as factory fluid may be formulated differently than generic fluid.
For those looking to take an extra preventative measure, you may also want to consider cleaning/replacing the filter on the plow pump assembly. This involves a bit more work but it will ensure that you are getting out any foreign objects that may have lodged in the unit during the winter.
Snow Plow Storage Mistake #4: Forgetting To Grease The Plow Components
When storage time comes around it’s also time to break out the grease. Before you detach your snow plow you will want to grease any exposed chrome on the lift cylinder rod and on the angle cylinders to protect them from corrosion. After greasing is complete, power the lift tower forward until the lift cylinder is completely compressed. This will add an additional layer of corrosion protection. In addition to the lift cylinder, it is also important to grease the electrical components. Disconnect all electrical plugs and coat each connection with dielectric grease (lights, valve assembly, pump, pump solenoid and battery). Then install all dust caps and plugs provided. Also, if you own a v-plow you will want to grease the coupler spring pins and the vertical hinge bushings.
Snow Plow Storage Mistake #5: Maintaining Spring Tension
It is recommended that trip return springs, during operation, be tightened so that a business card can be slid between the coils in the middle of the spring. However, when storing the plow, it is unnecessary to maintain this amount of tension on the springs. When storing the plow, loosen the trip return springs and if you own a v-blade you will also want to loosen the blade return springs.
Avoiding these common pitfalls when storing your snowplow will extend its life and ensure that it is ready to go when the first flakes start to fly next season.
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See How Easily You Can Adjust The Drop Speed Of Your Snow Plow
Have you ever wondered what the drop speed of your snow plow should be? It's a bit of trick question because the answer depends on what your drop speed preference is. If you are a snow removal contractor you may want the plow to drop quick because "time is money". However, if you are a home owner plowing your own driveway and don't want to wake up the neighbors you may want to lower the drop speed of your plow. No matter what your preference is, the instructions below will help you easily make the adjustment.
How Do I Adjust The Drop Speed Of My RT3 Plow?
Adjusting the Flow Control Valve on the backside of the hydraulic manifold will
increase or decrease the drop speed of your RT3. This procedure covers THE BOSS Standard-Duty Straight Plow, Super-Duty Straight Plow, Trip-Edge Plows & all Power-V Plows.
Procedure:
1. Loosen the jam nut then adjust the set screw.
2. Clockwise will decrease lowering speed, counter-clockwise will increase lowering speed.
3. Re-tighten the jam nut when desired speed is obtained.
CAUTION: If your plow is equipped with SmartHitch, and you turn the set screw too far counter-clockwise you may lose the detach function with SmartHitch. If this happens, turn the set screw clockwise until this function returns, then re-tighten the jam nut.
How Do I Adjust The Drop Speed Of My Sport Duty Straight Blade & UTV Straight Blade Plow?
The lowering speed of a Sport Duty Straight Blade plow is dictated by an orifice located in the
backside of the hydraulic manifold. If you want to slow the drop speed of your plow you will have to purchase and install an orifice with a smaller diameter opening. Sport Duty plows come with a .120” orifice. To slow the drop speed a .100” orifice can be installed (HYD12821). UTV Straight Blade plows come with a .100" orifice. To slow the drop speed you will need to purchase a .090" orfice.
Procedure:
1. Using a 3/16” allen wrench, remove the cap plug located on the backside of the manifold.
2. Insert the same 3/16” allen wrench into the opening and back out the orifice.
3. It may be necessary to use a magnet to remove the orifice from the manifold.
4. Install the HYD12821 orifice and hand tighten.
5. Re-install the cap plug and hand tighten.
For a complete listing of BOSS Technical Service videos click here.
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Healthy snack options for plow truck drivers
By Cheryl Higley
Snowstorms often add up to long hours and sleepless nights for plow truck drivers. Stopping for meals may not be an option so they grab fast food and an energy drink and keep going. 
Dr. Amy Jamieson-Petonic, program manager for the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Enterprise, says the nature of the job is inherently risky but those who don’t take care of their health and wellness can compound the problem.
“A lack of activity and a lack of sleep can increase your risk of chronic disease such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer,” she says, noting that research has shown an increased risk of diabetes with even one night of sleep deprivation. Why add poor nutrition to the mix?
“Fast food tends to offer high-fat, high-sugar choices, which negatively impact the body,” she says, adding that reliance on energy drinks to stay awake is also a concern.
The US Food and Drug Administration reported in January that hospitalizations due to energy drink consumption have doubled since 2007, with 20,000 reported incidents in 2011.
“I know they are a quick fix, but we’ve seen people experiencing cardiac issues, irritability and even deaths linked to these drinks. We don’t know everything they’re putting into these beverages, and what we don’t know could hurt us,” she says.
Understanding that stopping, stretching and grabbing a more nutritious meal isn’t always possible in the midst of a storm, Dr. Jamieson-Petonic says it is still possible to make better choices. All it takes is advance preparation.
“There are foods and snacks that can give the drivers the nutrients, vitamins and minerals they need to keep them energized.”
If possible, she encourages drivers to pack a cooler or lunchbox with the following to help stave off hunger and energy depletion:
- Fruit: Fresh or dried fruits offer vitamins, fiber and energy. Dr. Jamieson-Petonic cautions against yogurt-covered raisins because they’re usually coated in palm oil. “If you’re going to eat those, you may as well go eat a bacon double cheeseburger.”
- Nuts: Appropriate portion sizes of unsalted almonds, cashews, walnuts and peanuts all offer heart-healthy fats that provide good energy, fiber and protein.
- Trans fat-free peanut butter: Eat with celery or whole grain crackers and pretzels. Some brands offer single-serve cups that make it more portable. Like nuts, peanut butter offers the healthy fat that can get you through the long hours.
- Trail mix: Whether homemade or store-bought, trail mix can provide a long-lasting energy boost. Steer clear of those containing high-sugar items.
- Fresh veggies: Baby carrots, celery and peppers are easy snacks and provide vitamins and nutrients.
- Protein bars: Choose those that are low in sugar and feature all-natural ingredients. “Some of these bars you need a biochemistry degree to pronounce the ingredients,” she says.
- Cheese/yogurt: If you can pack perishables, string cheese is a great option as is low-fat yogurt. Avoid fruit-on-the-bottom yogurts, which often are high in sugar.
- Sandwiches/wraps: Whole-grain breads and heart-healthy meats can provide good energy. More convenience stores and gas stations are starting to provide healthy options, Dr. Jamieson-Petonic says. “It’s just a matter of whether you have time to go looking for them. If you can pack a cooler at home you have more control.”
Dehydration is also a concern. While green tea, 100% fruit juice and smoothies all can be beneficial, water is your best defense against dehydration. Need a warm drink? If it’s coffee—make it black, she says. A better option may be to stir instant breakfast mix into hot cocoa for added vitamins and minerals.
Whatever you decide, she says, don’t use “I don’t have time” as an excuse: “If you have to, set an alarm on your smartphone for every three to four hours. Don’t forget to eat. You will feel better, work better, and work smarter and more efficiently. Good nutrition will allow you to bring your ‘A’ game.”
Cheryl Higley is Editor of Snow Business Magazine. GoPlow.com is powered by Snow Business magazine and the Snow & Ice Management Association
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Transform Your UTV into a Winter Workhorse with a Snow Plow
Let's face it, your UTV is not just a utility vehicle. It is a go anywhere, do anything machine with an added bonus that it's a blast to drive. Whether you are just doing yard work or riding some hardcore OHV trails, driving your UTV is putting a smile on your face. For the most part we have to put our UTV's in the garage when the snow starts falling, but why should we have to? Put THE BOSS SNOWPLOW on your UTV and transform it into a winter workhorse!
Whether you own a landscaping business and use your UTV all day every day or are a weekend trail rider, there are always parts and accessories to suit your needs. When it comes to UTV parts and accessories for winter, a BOSS plow is an easy addition to your UTV that can save time and add value to your business or home snow removal needs.
THE BOSS Snowplow offers a 6'6" Steel Power V XT and a 6' Poly Straight Blade model
designed specifically for a variety of UTV makes and models. Visit THE BOSS UTV plow selector tool to find a match for your UTV. Speed, response, control and durability are all staples of THE BOSS Snowplow. In addition, a fully enclosed and protected hydraulic system keeps all winter elements out which keeps you and your snow plow working in any condition. Also, if you are worried about losing off-road capabilities with the addition of a plow, don't be. With a sloped-profile undercarriage, your UTV loses no ground clearance with a BOSS plow and remains the same rugged off-road machine when the plow is not attached.
With the SmartHitch 2 system, you can easily attach and detach THE BOSS in seconds. Also, the hydraulic system comes off with the plow so you are not carrying the weight when the plow is not in use. The chainless hydraulic cylinder lifting system eliminates plow bouncing during transport. Another bonus to the hydraulic system is THE BOSS plow has the highest lift available for ultimate snow stacking capability. A high performance cutting edge offers durability and extended wear resistance which keeps you going storm after storm. The full moldboard tip design helps protect the blade and UTV from hidden obstacles such as curbs. THE BOSS plow really is the ultimate in UTV parts and accessories for winter.
The SmartTouch 2 control system offers several mounting options for right or left handed use. Additionally, both the steel Vee blade and the straight Poly blade are coated with the SmartShield corrosion resistant powder coat system featuring Zinc primer. For added peace of mind, every BOSS plow comes with a 2 year limited warranty.
Don't store away your UTV this winter. Instead put it to work with THE BOSS UTV plow. Always ready to take on the elements, THE BOSS UTV plows are engineered for your UTV, yet built to the same professional-grade standards as full-size BOSS plows, making them tough enough to handle any snow removal job.
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Prepare Your Snow Plow Truck With These Winter Survival Tools
The weather reports are in and the "big one" is scheduled to hit your town. They are calling for over a foot of snow and you know what this means - it's money making time for snow plowers. It's the storm you have been waiting for all season and it's finally here. The truck is fueled up, the plow has been inspected and it's time to hit the road!
STOP! Have you equipped your plow truck with these winter survival tools? Snow plowers encounter some of the most dangerous road conditions and it's important to be prepared. In the event you have a breakdown or become stuck, here is a good list of items to have with you as you head out to tackle the storm.
Winter Survival Kit For Your Plow Truck
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First Aid Kit
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Blanket
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A can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for water)
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Windshield Scraper
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Booster Cables
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Road Maps
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Mobile Phone
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Compasss
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Tool Kit
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Paper Towels
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Bag of sand or cat litter (to pour on ice or snow for added traction)
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Tow Rope
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Tire Chains (in areas with heavy snow)
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Shovel
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Container of water and high-calorie canned or dried foods and a can opener
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Flashlight and extra batteries
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Canned or compressed air with sealant (for emergency tire repair)
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Brightly colored cloth
If you are a BOSS SNOWPLOW owner, it is recommended that you have an Emergency Parts Kit on hand. Emergency Parts Kits are available for both BOSS Straight Blades and Power-V plows. The parts kits include a cutting edge bolt kit, eye bolt kit, power unit solenoid kit, hydraulic fluid, hose, trip return spring, 12 volt relay, dielectric grease and ratchet strap. Parts kits can be purchased by contacting your local BOSS dealer.
Remember as you head out to tackle the "big one" to not only watch out for the safety of others but also your personal safety as well.
Happy Plowing!
Source: U.S. Department of Health And Human Services Centers for Disease Control And Prevention - Extreme Cold Guid
photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dharma_for_one/5414515001/">JanetandPhil</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/">cc</a>
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AFTER HIS STEPSON JOINED THE MARINES, MARK FORBACH DECIDED TO SERVE TOO.
Mark serves military families on the homefront as a volunteer for Project EverGreen’s SnowCare For Troops initiative, sponsored by THE BOSS Snowplow.
No one knows better than Mark Forbach, owner of Green Thumb Professional Services in Williamsville, New York, just how hard it is to have a family member deployed overseas. In the fall of 2010, his stepson, Sgt. Jesse W. Bieksza, went to serve in Afghanistan. “It was a real eye-opener for my family. We know firsthand the toll deployment can take on a family, especially the emotional one.”
As a way of easing that burden for others, Mark signed up as a volunteer for the SnowCare For Troops initiative managed by Project EverGreen and sponsored by THE BOSS Snowplow. SnowCare For Troops is a nationwide outreach program that recruits local snowplow professionals to provide free snow removal services for men and women who are serving their country away from home. “Doing a little extra work for someone facing hardship is easy for me to do. Giving back is how you make your business healthy. My son and his unit have our backs, the least I can do is have theirs.”
Mark’s desire to help was made even stronger after spotting a house in his hometown that had three service flags hanging in the window. Each flag represents a family member who’s in active duty overseas. “It was really overwhelming for me to see those three flags. I can’t imagine what that family is going through. All I wanted to do was knock on the door and thank them.” No doubt Mark will get his chance soon. We hope you’ll join him in giving back to the brave men and women of the US Armed Forces who are giving up so much for us.
HOW YOU CAN HELP SUPPORT PROJECT EVERGREEN’S SNOWCARE FOR TROOPS:
• Volunteer at projectevergreen.com/scft
• Loan snow removal equipment to a local volunteer.
• Donate money, transportation or gas cards.
• Refer a military family.
To learn more about how to support SnowCare for Troops, visit www.projectevergreen.com/scft or www.bossplow.com/snowcarefortroops or call 1-888-611-2956.
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THE BOSS SNOWPLOW THANKSGIVING TOP TEN LIST
As 2012 begins to draw to a close, many will take the time over this holiday season to reflect on the year and give thanks. Last year, I asked our BOSS SNOWPLOW Family to share with us what they were thankful for. While the list below is a year old, it is not dated. The list reflects our values as a company - unwavering values that are true from year to year. It's who we are, it's what we live by and it's what we promise to you as a BOSS Customer.
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We Are Thankful
Here’s our Top Ten List of what we are thankful for:
10. For being able to live, work and play in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where snow and cold are a way of life.
9. For the health and well being of our family and friends and for the continued strength to pull through any battles that we are faced with along the journey.
8. For our military men and women that serve, protect and defend our freedoms and for those back at home that serve our deployed military through the SnowCare For Troops program.
7. For all of our committed suppliers who maintain the high quality standards and integrity demanded by The BOSS Snowplow.
6. For the superior network and family of BOSS Snowplow distributors/dealers that take pride in selling and servicing our snow removal products.
5. For SNOW! (enough said)
4. For skilled crafts men and women, who by living in the heart of snow country in the U.P. of Michigan truly understand and are committed to building the best snow plows on the planet.
3. For coworkers with willing hearts, committed spirits and unwavering integrity.
2. For working for a family owned business that treats each of us like family. For the caring, commitment and dedication that is shown to each of us, our customers, and for the larger community that it serves through its efforts.
1. For our customers. Those that have been growing with the BOSS since 1985, for those that have just purchased their first BOSS this year and for all those in between. You have made THE BOSS Snowplow what it is today.
We Are Grateful
We at THE BOSS Snowplow are truly grateful for all of the above and so much more. We have been blessed with being able to provide snow plow professionals with high quality products so that they can do what they do best – keeping the roads, driveways and parking lots clear and safe for all of our communities. We are grateful to be able to serve each of you and we look forward to continuing to be your partner.
Wishing each of you a Happy Thanksgiving!
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THE BOSS Snowplow Awards Power-V XT Plow to Heavy Metal Sweepstakes Winner Connor Hedge
Full-time firefighter and part-time snow removal contractor, Connor Hedge, 24, of Westfield, Mass., is the proud owner of a new Power-V XT Snowplow, one of two Grand Prizes in the Heavy Metal Sweepstakes sponsored by THE BOSS Snowplow and Gravely® in September. The snowplow was recently installed by THE BOSS distributor Ken’s Auto Sales, 921 Main St., Holyoke, Mass.
“I’ve been wanting a BOSS V-plow for a long time, so when I learned that I won it was a tremendous thrill and surprise for me,” said Hedge, who is a paramedic and firefighter with the Westfield Fire Department. Hedge operates a part-time snow removal contracting business and he said his new BOSS Power-V XT will enhance his productivity to help him get the job done faster when servicing his local accounts. “I’ve always been impressed with THE BOSS’ reputation for quality and durability, so this plow is a welcome addition.”
Hedge recently picked up his BOSS plow from Ken’s Auto Sales and owner Kenneth Cashman, who operates the decades-old dealership with his two sons, Mike and Tim. Ken’s Auto Sales carries the full lineup of BOSS Snowplow products and specializes in quality installations with on-site, BOSS factory trained technicians.
Hedge was one of more than 8,000 participants in the raffle-style Heavy Metal Sweepstakes, which invited current and new BOSS and Gravely Facebook fans to play online and receive daily tokens to bid on popular gear and valuable prizes, including a Gravely Pro-Turn mower, the second Grand Prize in the sweepstakes. Players who “Liked” the page received a new token each day and earned bonus entries for inviting a Facebook friend to play. Prize winners in the sweepstakes were determined through a random drawing at the end of the promotional period.
During the sweepstakes period, the game generated nearly 232,500 bids and more than 4,500 new “Likes” for THE BOSS Snowplow Facebook page, helping BOSS surpass its goal of reaching 10,000 fans.
“We’re excited about the tremendous response to our Heavy Metal Sweepstakes and pleased that our plow winner, Connor Hedge, will be able to put his prize to good use,” said Mark Klossner, marketing director for THE BOSS Snowplow. “Our goal with this promotion was to really engage our fans and find a fun and entertaining way to reward them for playing. We think we’ve succeeded, as participation in the Heavy Metal Sweepstakes exceeded our expectations.”
Open to legal residents of the 50 United States (except Hawaii and D.C.) and residents of Canada (excluding Quebec) 18 years of age or older, the Heavy Metal Sweepstakes kicked off Sept. 1 and concluded Sept. 30.
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How To Check Your Snow Plow For Flood Damage.
If a plow has been submerged in flood waters it doesn't necessarily mean that it is no longer functional. Snow plows are designed for an environment based on moisture. Because of this, the majority of components can handle direct contact with water. If your snow plow has been submerged because of a flood or other unfortunate event, consider the advice below.
DON'T IMMEMDIATELY TEST THE SNOWPLOW
It is safe to assume that the flood waters have penetrated every inch of the snow plow's electric/hydraulic system. When the flood waters recede, resist the urge to turn on your plow system to see if it works. Turning on the system immediately may cause damage to the plow.
Before turning on your snow plow, follow the steps below to determine if there has been any damage to your snow removal equipment.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The electrical system on the snow plow is one area that moisture can cause some havok. However, with some simple maintenance it can be cleaned and inspected to determine if there has been any damage. Follow these steps:
1. Completely disconnect all electrical connections from the snow plow.
2. Open up the harness loom and flush out any debris.
3. Clean and inspect all electrical terminals. Replace any that appear damaged or corroded.
4. Hang the wiring harness in a heated, dry location until completely dry.
5. Access the wiring schematic for your plow. Perform a continuity test on all the electrical circuits in the harness. If a circuit shows no continuity, repair or replace the wiring harness. If all the circuits show continuity, clean and grease any exposed terminals and wire ends. Then close the harness loom. BOSS SNOWPLOW electrical diagrams can be located here: http://www.bossplow.com/support/technical-information/electrical-system
6. Once the wiring harness is completely dry, the harness can be reinstalled on the plow.
7. Disassemble the headlights and directionals, if possible, and inspect and clean all internal connections. Allow the connections to dry. Grease the terminals and reinstall.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The next step in maintaining your snowplow after a flood is to disassemble and flush the hydraulic system. Follow these steps:
1. Drain the hydraulic reservoir and remove the power unit from the snowplow.
2. Completely disassemble the power unit (reservoir, lines, pump, relief valve, fittings and motor).
3. Allow the electrical motor to completely dry out. Inspect the brushes and bearings for debris and clean if necessary.
4. Completely flush the pump, relief valve, breather cap, intake/return lines and reservoir tank. Allow the plow components to dry and then reassemble using new seals and gaskets.
5. Remove the valve manifold from the snow plow. Completely disassemble and remove every valve fitting. BOSS SNOWPLOW hydraulic manifold diagrams can be located here: http://www.bossplow.com/support/technical-information/hydraulic-manifolds
6. Flush the aluminum manifold block. Discard any debris and allow the unit to completely dry. Using an air hose, completely blow out the manifold block.
7. Clean all valve screens and fittings. Remove any debris and using an air hose blow out the components.
8. Reassemble the valve manifold.
9. Remove all hydraulic lines and flush. Blow the lines with an air hose.
10. Remove and hang all the hydraulic cylinders so they can drain. If no water has penetrated the cylinder (milky fluid), reinstall the cylinder. If fluid is present, fully disassemble the cylinder, clean, install new seals and reassemble.
11. With the hydraulic system fully assembled, fill the reservoir with a compatible hydraulic fluid. Turn on the plow. Lift and angle the plow several times in each direction. For additional information, view this article & video on changing the hydraulic fluid http://info.bossplow.com/Blog/bid/108591/How-To-Change-Your-Snow-Plow-Hydraulic-Fluid
12. Drain the fluid and inspect for debris or water. Repeat until the drained fluid is clean. Refill the resevoir.
Once you have reassembled the hydraulic and electrical systems, simply inspect and clean any pivot areas and grease if neccessary.
If you have additional questions about this process or for parts availability, please contact your local BOSS dealer by visiting http://www.bossplow.com/dealer-locator
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How Snow Removal Contracts and Stock Portfolios Are Alike
Diversify, diversify, and diversify! For those who have consulted with a financial advisor on investing in the stock market, this mantra is very familiar. Similarly, when it comes to putting together a portfolio of customers for snow removal contracts the same cadence often applies – diversify, diversify, diversify. Because of that, there are several pricing models that snow removal professionals offer to their customers when securing bids for the upcoming snow season. Particularly for commercial snow removal, a mix of models can prove to be successful as it provides diversification to accommodate for fluctuations in weather patterns.
Let’s look at some of the more common snow removal pricing models and how they are defined:
Seasonal Pricing
As the name implies, seasonal pricing is set at a fixed price for the entire season and billed equally over the winter months. This is a popular choice in areas where the region experiences seasonal snowfall averages of at least 15 inches. As with any of the pricing models, there are pros and cons to seasonal pricing. With seasonal pricing, should the region experience a mild winter, income would be secured for those winter months regardless of the number of snow events that take place. However, should the region experience an above average winter, diminishing profit margins could result if services are provided beyond the seasonal rate the bid was calculated on.
Another piece of the equation to mention here is the customer’s perceived value of seasonal pricing. It’s safe to say that customers will find greater value in this service during above to normal snowfall years but during below normal years they may experience more dissatisfaction. However, for long term customers, they often see the value in this option as they are better able to budget for their snow removal services on a yearly basis.
Event Pricing
Event pricing is defined as fixed pricing per snow event based on the number of inches of snowfall for a single storm. With this option, service will begin at a pre-determined snowfall level set by the customer, and service will continue throughout the event until the weather conditions subside and the property is clear and safe. Because the event pricing is preset there is no guessing at what the costs will be and the snow removal contractor provides monitoring of the lot throughout the snow event.
This is a popular option for customers that have lot sizes greater than 50,000 square feet. Per event pricing allows the customer to only pay for the service when the event happens compared to locking in at a fixed seasonal contract rate. In an above average snow year, the diversification of event pricing customers is advantageous as the extra income earned can help offset the potential profit loss with seasonal contracts. For customers this can be a more challenging item to include in their budget as it can fluctuate based upon the number of snow events in that given year. On the flip side, during a mild winter, having seasonal contractors can help offset the loss of income from the lack of snow events and customers with event pricing contracts.
Per Push Pricing
Per push pricing is a fixed rate per service. This proves to be a popular option for customers with lot sizes less than 50,000 square feet and typically require less than one hour of service to complete. In this case, the customer pays for the number of times you clear the lot during a snow event at your per push rate. Similar to event pricing, the pros and cons of this type of pricing are reflected in the amount of snowfall during that particular season. The more events, the more payments/income you will earn.
The above models provide a snapshot of the pricing models that are common to the snow removal industry. When setting up contracts, consider these models and talk to your customers and/or potential customers about what works best for their business. Educate them on the benefits and risks of each plan and help them to make the best decision for their business. Aligning yourself with a variety of customers with different pricing plans will help you “weather” whatever Mother Nature has in store for the upcoming season.
Sources: Planalytics – Snow Removal Commercial Pricing Models presentation
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