The earning potential of snow remov- al work can vary, depending on where you live. On average, expect to earn $25 to $75 per hour or $200 to $600 per seasonal contract. Other Side Hustles One of the best ways to create new sources of income is to tap the custom- ers you already have. Offer discounts during the slower months and make sure they know about any additional service you offer. Remind springtime customers that you offer services year round. Ideas include:
• Yard cleanup • Gutter cleaning • Pressure washing • Hauling • Christmas light installation
Snow removal work can help supplement income when the weather limits regular tree care work. It’s also a way to find new ways to provide existing customers with year-round services.
sidered risky because it involves high equipment costs, insurance to cover vehicle accidents and injury, and good customer service skills to drum up new business. But even with all that, what if it doesn’t snow? Snow removal work can be as simple as shoveling a roof and as complex as keeping a highway clear during a heavy storm. Smaller jobs that focus on sidewalks, paths, small driveways, and roofs usually benefit from specialized equipment such as walk- or ride-be- hind plows or snow rakes. Larger jobs, such as clearing entire streets, require an all-wheel or four-wheel drive work truck, loader, or skid steer, along with a properly propor- tioned plow attachment. Proper maintenance is key to prevent- ing equipment breakdown. Take partic- ular care if relying on a favorite work truck, as the stop-and-go nature of plowing and constant shiing of gears can wreak havoc on a transmission.
the costs in terms of investment and maintenance. While chippers and shredders can ac- complish the first phase of processing, a grinder is generally needed to refine the material to a smaller size. Screeners are needed to clean the product and convey- ors will help move it around. Coloring mulch requires an additional process that can increase time and cost. Tastes and needs can differ and rap- idly change among customers. While roughly chopped wood chips from a mix of species might work at a power plant, residential customers may prefer more sophisticated bark chips. Diversifying your client base to in- clude nurseries, utility companies, and municipalities will allow you to ride the changing tides of trends. Snow Removal Depending on where you live, snow removal work can help supplement in- come when the weather limits regular tree care work. It’s also a way to find new ways to provide existing custom- ers with year-round services.
• Home repairs • Landscaping
Sometimes, a friendly call or door hanger at just the right time can encourage them to call on your services. FINAL THOUGHTS More people are turning to side hustles to earn extra cash, develop new skills, and work out the kinks before starting a new business. Being successful doesn’t happen by accident. Careful planning can help you get an edge over your competition and identify new opportunities. Anticipating the needs of customers and finding ways to offer year-round services is a great way to build a solid client base and earn some extra cash.
One of the best ways to create new sources of income is to tap the customers you already have.
Snow removal work is generally con-
40 | ArborTIMES Winter 2024
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online