How to Maintain Your Winter Contracts
When everyone is huddled up in their homes, snow removal contractors are out working to ensure the city keeps moving. Well, harsh winter months are good for the snow removal business. Snow removal companies need to make sure they have ample landscaping supplies, de-icing products, and bulk salt to fulfill winter contracts.
What service is typically included in a snow removal contract
Snow removal contracts can be in two forms – a standard list of services or a customized service. Clients can choose the package they want, and the contractors can share the quotes based on the requirement. Generally, standard services would include snow plowing, shovelling, snow blowing off rooftops, salting, ice removal, sand applications, and snow banking.
While taking up new clients, snow contractors usually conduct a site visit and ask you questions to understand your pain points. They may also want to know why said client wants to change their snow-removal contract, and take suggestions on where they want the removed snow to be piled, etc.
Having frank communication about the customer’s needs sets the contract’s tone. Once you have established a relationship with the prospective client, it will help you plan the project effectively.
Maintaining your winter contracts
A few things that will help you maintain your winter contracts over the years are as follows.
Building a relationship with the client and keeping open communication a priority. This will help you navigate any hurdles you encounter amicably and ensure you have the clients’ complete support throughout the project.
Frequent check-ins throughout each season. Make that call and keep following up. With your regular clients making the first move shows them you care. Remember to show client appreciation and reiterate that their contract is very important to you.
Offer various seasonal service bundles to keep communication open all year long. As landscaping professionals, there is something you can contribute to your clients every month. Pencil in these requirements and assign your best people on the job to keep your customers happy.
Make sure you have the equipment and material stock for next season
Planning ahead of time helps you save a lot of time and money. It is essential to order your bulk salt, de-icing products, and other landscaping supplies ahead of time to avoid the end-minute rush and price escalations.
Before booking your supplies order:
- Check on your previous year’s stock and note its condition.
- Get in touch with your vendors and ensure to keep up a good relationship with them.
- Pre-book products that are always in demand and offer benefits such as immediate payment to keep your suppliers happy to work with you.
Beat the seasonal rush, be prepared, and avoid a shortage of inventory by being meticulous in your planning and execution. Having an ample supply of de-icing products will ensure you can complete each contract, keep your clients happy, and ensure their contract for the next season.
When the snow hits, you have to swing into action immediately. You can gain loyal customers by delivering what you promise. So plan, conduct a stock check, and ensure you have enough bulk salt, de-icing products, and landscaping supplies your team needs for each project.