Several years ago I wrote an article titled How Teens Can Start a Snow Shoveling Business. With winter weather fast approaching, I thought that I would review what it takes to get a snow business off the ground. This is an ideal money making opportunity for teens.
The great thing about shoveling snow is that you can do it by group or alone. I have done both. I worked with a group that was set up by a high school girl. She would line up jobs over the phone and then recruit workers. She even set up appointments and wages for her workers. She would then collect 25 to 50 cents for each job she lined up. She never left the house. The boys working for her just showed up at the location, cleaned the walk or driveway and collected the money. They had no door to door asking. They all had jobs.
As an individual, you do it all. You call, make appointments, clean up, collect and then move on to the next location. All the money is yours.
Equipment
You need a shovel with a strong blade. Metal is better than plastic. Metal will bite into the ice. Speaking of ice, rock salt is great. Just use where it is necessary. Do not use it on snow. It is just for ice areas.
Dress for the job. Gloves and boots are important. You need layers of clothing to stay warm. Remember, you can always take clothes off. However, you can’t run home to warm up or add clothes. Be prepared.
Snow Blowers are great if you own one. However, you do have to pay for gas. You also have to be conscious of where the snow is being placed. You can’t put it on a neighbors walk or driveway.
Clients
Seniors, businesses, stores, churches and restaurants are great clients. Apartments can be a problem. This is because everyone wants to pass the buck to their neighbor. If you do a good job, leave a business card, email address or phone number with them. They will expect you back. They will also spread the word about your efforts. A good job and effort can lead to other opportunities.
Why Now?
Do not wait till it snows. Get your business off the ground now. Beat the other competition. Nobody has the solid control of this type of business.
One last point to remember. Trucks with blades can’t do walks. There is something about a boy and a shovel, that people like. So don’t get discouraged. Line up your jobs now.