How to Secure a Snow Plow Contract: Insider Tips for 2024

Winter in Wisconsin isn’t for the faint of heart. Between blizzards, frosty mornings, and roads turning into ice rinks, there’s nothing like a good snow removal team to keep life running smoothly. If you’ve ever wondered how to get a snow plow contract, especially with the competitive winter season of 2024 coming up, you’ve come to the right place. Koch Kuts, based in Burlington, Wisconsin, has been transforming outdoor spaces and providing top-notch snow plowing services to Waterford and beyond. Today, we’re sharing insider tips on securing snow plow contracts, so you can stay ahead of the game this winter.

Why Snow Plow Contracts Are Worth It

Securing a snow plow contract isn’t just about making extra cash in the winter. It’s about providing safety and reliability for both residential and commercial clients. The past few years have shown us how unpredictable winter can be, and having a reliable snow removal plan ensures businesses stay open and residents can go about their daily lives without facing unnecessary risks.

Whether you’re targeting commercial properties, parking lots, or residential driveways in Waterford, WI, having a contract means consistent work, better customer relationships, and peace of mind when the snow hits hard.

Understand the Local Market

The first step to landing a snow plow contract is understanding the local market—and here in southeastern Wisconsin, winters can be long and intense. In Waterford, where winters can stretch well into March, businesses and homeowners alike are keen on securing reliable snow plowing services. This year, with more people working from home or operating small businesses, the demand for snow removal services has only increased.

Tips to Secure a Snow Plow Contract

1. Build Relationships with Property Owners

To get your foot in the door, it’s important to establish solid relationships with property owners and local businesses. This means reaching out to homeowners associations, commercial property managers, and even municipal offices. Make yourself known as the reliable name for snow plowing in Waterford.

Here’s a pro tip: Get involved in community events and hand out flyers, business cards, or promotional deals for new clients. Establishing rapport before winter starts can go a long way in securing contracts.

2. Highlight Your Professionalism and Reliability

If you’re serious about securing snow plow contracts, you need to stand out from the competition. Customers want to know they can count on you—especially when they’re looking out their windows at three feet of snow. Emphasize your reliability in every interaction.

  • Insurance: Highlight that your company is fully insured. This is crucial for both residential and commercial clients, as it gives them peace of mind.
  • Experience: Mention your experience. If you’ve been serving southeastern Wisconsin for years, let them know. Winter in Waterford can be relentless, and customers want a team that knows how to handle anything.
  • Communication: Keep the lines of communication open. Whether it’s through email updates or a simple text to notify clients of your arrival, communication is key to a successful snow plow contract.

3. Offer Competitive Pricing and Flexible Packages

Snow plowing services often come down to price, and the more options you can provide, the better. Offering seasonal packages, per-plow rates, or even emergency plowing services can cater to a variety of customers. Be transparent with your pricing and always provide clear terms.

4. Promote Your Snow Plowing Technology

In 2024, technology is king. Highlight any advanced equipment you use, like GPS systems that help track routes or newer, more efficient plows that make the job quicker and safer. These tools not only make you more efficient but also make potential clients feel they are getting the best service available.

5. Prepare Contracts Before Winter Hits

Many property owners start thinking about snow plowing services well before the first snowflake falls. Be proactive and prepare contracts in early fall—or even late summer. This gives your potential clients plenty of time to review the agreement and commit before the first winter storm.

What Should Be in a Snow Plow Contract?

Now that you know how to attract clients, it’s important to understand what a good snow plow contract should include. Here’s a breakdown of what should be covered:

  • Services Provided: Specify what services are included, such as driveway plowing, sidewalk shoveling, and salt applications.
  • Trigger Depth: Clearly state how much snow needs to accumulate before services will be provided (usually around 1-2 inches).
  • Pricing: Detail your pricing structure—whether it’s per visit, per season, or a mix of both.
  • Timing: State when clients can expect services after a snowfall—for example, within 24 hours of the snow ending.
  • Liability: Include details on liability coverage to protect both you and your clients in case of property damage or accidents.

Leveraging Snow Removal Services for Commercial Clients

If you’re aiming for larger contracts, such as those for shopping centers, apartment complexes, or office buildings, positioning yourself as a commercial snow removal expert is key. Commercial properties require consistent and thorough snow removal services to keep tenants and customers safe.

Key Benefits of Commercial Snow Removal Contracts

  1. Guaranteed Income: Unlike on-call services, contracts guarantee income throughout the winter months.
  2. Efficiency: You can plan routes more effectively, making your operations efficient and cost-effective.
  3. Client Trust: Having a contract in place builds trust and shows your commitment to keeping their property safe.

How to Approach Commercial Clients

Approaching commercial clients might seem intimidating, but it’s all about framing your services as a valuable solution. Waterford businesses want to ensure their operations aren’t impacted by winter storms—and that’s where you come in.

  • Schedule a Meeting: A face-to-face meeting helps in understanding their specific needs. Walk the property with them and note problem areas.
  • Custom Packages: Offer custom packages that cater to the unique demands of their property, such as more frequent salting or priority plowing.

2024 Considerations for Snow Plow Contracts

This winter is expected to be quite unpredictable, with meteorologists forecasting more extreme cold snaps and heavy snowfall for southeastern Wisconsin. In Waterford, WI, these conditions could lead to higher demand for timely and efficient snow plowing services. Make sure your contracts account for the extra effort it might take to clear snow during extreme weather—whether that means adjusting your pricing or communicating timelines clearly.

With the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns, many businesses and homeowners are opting for full-season contracts to guarantee service whenever snow hits. This is your opportunity to pitch early and secure clients before the season even starts.

Quick Tips for Securing a Snow Plow Contract

  • Be Proactive: Contact potential clients before winter starts.
  • Highlight Insurance and Reliability: Customers value a professional, fully-insured service.
  • Offer Flexible Pricing: Seasonal packages, per-plow, and emergency rates make your services accessible.
  • Use Advanced Tech: Promote any technology you use to boost efficiency.
  • Prepare Solid Contracts: Include all necessary details to avoid misunderstandings.

Call Koch Kuts for Expert Snow Removal Services

Winter can be unpredictable, but your snow removal service doesn’t have to be. Koch Kuts offers reliable, professional snow plowing services in Waterford, WI, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for consistent driveway clearing or a business needing commercial snow removal, our fully-insured team is ready to help you tackle whatever winter throws your way.

Contact Koch Kuts today to discuss your snow plow contract and make sure you’re ready for winter 2024. Don’t let the snow catch you by surprise—let us do the heavy lifting so you can enjoy a worry-free season.