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TM

PORTABLE RESTROOM OPERATOR


August 2016

www.promonthly.com

STOKING
THE FLAMES
Oklahoma firefighter Jay Baker fans
entrepreneurial embers to build a
successful restroom business Page 24

Getting In the Race


Northeast Sanitation Corp. becomes part of
the starting-line ritual for 30,000 runners
at the Boston Marathon Page 14

In Business Since 1959

TUFF-JON
Portable Toilets | Holding Tanks | Hand Wash Units | Accessories

TJ Shorty

100 Gallon Fresh


Water Supply Tank

TJ Kids

Tuff-Jon

Tuff-Jon III

Tank sizes 60, Standard holes Can customize


105, 225, 300
are 2 - 3" holes
holes to match
and 440 gallons. with plugs
your specs

TJ Junior Single
Free Standing Sink

Containment Tray

(16 gallons fresh water)

Sink Lifting Bracket

60 Gallon Rinse Tank


TJ Handy Stand

Waterless Gel Touch


Dispensers

90 Gallon
Free-Standing Sink

(45 gallons fresh water)

Lifting Bracket Towel Dispenser


Assembly
Hand Washer
Sky Heater
Available For
Both Styles of
Corner Shelf
Tuff-Jon

The TSF Company Inc.

2930 S St. Phillips Rd. | Evansville, IN 47712

Interior View of Deluxe TJ-III

1-800-843-9286 | 812-985-2630 | Fax: 812-985-3671


Email: aschenk@tuff-jon.com | Website: www.tuff-jon.com

Toll Free:

August 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TM

P O R TA B L E R E S T R O O M O P E R AT O R

From the Editor: Follow These Tips to Bring Them Home Safe
During these busy weeks, remember to carry the right tools to keep
your crews happy and healthy. - Jim Kneiszel

10

@PROmonthly.com
Check out exclusive online content.

12

Back at the Office: 8 Payroll Tax Mistakes to Avoid


The IRS takes the withholding of funds from employee paychecks very
seriously, and you should too. - Judy Kneiszel

14

On Location: Getting In the Race


Northeast Sanitation Corp. becomes part of the starting-line ritual for
30,000 runners lacing it up in the Boston Marathon. - Betty Dageforde

22

PRO Business: Section 179 Deduction Lets You Keep On Truckin


Now that a strong federal tax benefit for equipment purchases is
permanent, its time to think more strategically about keeping up with
your machinery needs. - Erik Gunn

24

COVER STORY

Stoking the Flames


Oklahoma firefighter Jay Baker fans
entrepreneurial embers to build a successful
restroom business. - Ken Wysocky
ON THE COVER: Former firefighter Jay Baker has built
28 Rentals into a successful portable sanitation business
with a concentration in construction work around Clinton,
Oklahoma. Baker is shown with a 2005 International 4300
built out by TexLa Services and featuring a 1,100-gallon
waste/300-gallon freshwater tank and a Jurop/Chandler
pump. (Photo by Nick Oxford)

34

36

PSAI News
Promote the positive message of the portable sanitation industry.
- Karleen Kos
In the Garage: What Do You Look For in a Hand Tool?
A sure-handling and durable tool is the mechanics best friend.
Look beyond country of origin, weight and warranty when choosing
what goes in your box. - Ed Wodalski

40

WWETT Spotlight
Water Cannon pressure washer offers industrial cleaning power.
- Craig Mandli

42

Product Focus: Hand-Wash Equipment and Supplies


- Craig Mandli

45

Product News

45

Industry News

COMING NEXT MONTH September 2016


PROfile: Renting restrooms in Rhode Island
Take 5: Plumbing/restroom business approaches the century mark

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

www.promonthly.com
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2017 WATER & WASTEWATER EQUIPMENT,


TREATMENT & TRANSPORT SHOW
Education Day: Wednesday,
February 22, 2017
Show Days: Thursday - Saturday,
February 23-25, 2017

Indiana Convention Center,


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in a Changing Economy
Bringing together refined fuel,
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October 6th to October 8th


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August 2016

Putting you on the road


to logistical success.
Peterbilt 337

Ford F750

800/350

800/350

Hino 268A
800/350

109,950 102,950 106,450


$

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2015 Ford F550


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Portable Restroom Truck

Dodge

Ford F550

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Isuzu

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The Bed is the

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PATENT PENDING

Side Engine Style

950 Gallon (650/300), Aluminum Slide in, Flanged and dished heads,
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COMPLETE AND READY TO WORK

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stinger, washdown system w/50' hose, 3" discharge, 12V
battery & work light

ADVERTISERS
COMPANY

PAGE

PAGE

COMPANY

The Pros E

Allied Graphics, Inc. ...... 30

Comforts of Home Services,


Inc. ........................... 30

Amthor International ....... 5

CPACEX ........................ 39

PAGE

dge

J & J Chemical Co. ........ 31


J. C. Gury Company, Inc. 43

F
Armstrong Equipment,
Inc. ............................ 10

B
Best Enterprises, Inc. .... 11
Bionetix International .... 40

Century Paper &


Chemicals .................. 13
Classifieds .................... 46

August 2016

COMPANY

PAGE

M
Marketplace ................. 46
Generator-Parts.com
Johnny Mover Trailer Sales
McKee Technologies Inc./
Explorer Trailers
Slide-In Warehouse
Surco Products
Water Cannon, Inc.

Fruitland Manufacturing ..17

Lely Tank & Waste


Solutions, LLC ........... 19

COMPANY

PAGE

Portable Restroom Operator

Liquid Waste Industries,


Inc. ........................... 27

PAGE

Portable Sanitation
Association International
................................ 35
PortaLogix .................... 13

ScreenCo Systems LLC . 34


Swan Fence Inc. ............. 9

Robinson Vacuum Tanks 27

T.S.F. Company, Inc. ........ 2

Roeda Signs & ScreenTech


Imaging ................... 10

Tank World Corp ........... 23

N
Ronco Plastics ............... 23

Liberty Financial Group,


Inc. ............................. 9

COMPANY

Masport, Inc. ................... 3

Mid-State Tank/
Arthur Custom Tank ... 45
L

ITI Trailers & Truck Bodies,


Inc. ............................. 9

T0816
*As of July 31

KeeVac Industries, Inc. .... 6

FlowMark Vacuum Trucks


................................. 39

H
Heffernan Insurance
Brokers ...................... 27

Five Peaks ..................... 33

www.keevac.com

Like us on
Facebook

Industries, Inc.

August 2016

in this issue

COMPANY

8,395

Denver, CO
Bellefonte, PA
Kansas City, MO

National Vacuum
Equipment, Inc. ......... 29
P

V
VARCo ........................... 25

Safe-T-Fresh ................... 7

PolyJohn Enterprises, Inc. 47

Sansom Industries LLC


............................ 20, 21

PolyPortables, LLC ........ 48

Satellite Industries ........ 15

W
Walex Products Company,
Inc. ........................... 37
WWETT Show ............... 41

FROM the EDITOR


August 2016

Contact us: PRO strives to serve the portable restroom industry with interesting and
helpful stories. We welcome your comments, questions and column suggestions and
promise a prompt reply to all reader contacts. Call 800/257-7222; fax 715/546-3786;
email PRO editor Jim Kneiszel at editor@promonthly.com.

Follow These Tips to Bring Them Home Safe


DURING THESE BUSY WEEKS, REMEMBER TO CARRY THE RIGHT TOOLS
TO KEEP YOUR CREWS HAPPY AND HEALTHY
By Jim Kneiszel

few summers ago I read a bizarre story about a worker visiting a construction site in New Jersey. A subcontractor making a routine delivery at a high-rise building, he pulled up in his car and left the vehicle
to track someone down a few hundred feet away.
Maybe in a forgetful moment, or maybe because he knew he would be
back to his car in a jiffy, the worker neglected to pull his hard hat off the
passenger seat and put it on his head. Just as he was walking away from the
truck, a worker 50 stories above dropped a tape measure.
You know where this is going. The tape measure struck the worker in
the head and killed him. It was a freak occurrence. What are the odds that
the unprotected worker would be below just as another worker fumbled the
tape measure? Then what are the odds that this small tool would strike the
worker below rather than slamming harmlessly into the ground?
It was the wrong place at the wrong time for the victim. The lesson
for PROs is that we always have to prepare for being in the wrong place at
the wrong time and remembering during these busy summer weeks the
importance of using every common safety device we carry in the service truck.
This month marks the busiest time of the busy season for most
PROs. June and July were hectic enough, but in August youre faced with
construction workers trying to make deadlines, a few more weeks of frantic
special event service, and the risk of inattention that comes with the lateseason rush of work. Its hot and sticky and youve got more stops on the
route than ever before. You might be tempted to cut corners with safety, but
this is the time you need to be most careful when responding to the job.
Its time for the most basic tailgate safety meeting with your crews.
No safety reminder is too simple if it keeps your workers out of harms way
today. Make sure they dont get in the truck without any of these items, and
dont let them forget that a single safety oversight can lead to injury or
even death.
Dont leave these items behind:
Gloves and goggles: I have to admit Ive been on the job with PROs
who do not have gloves and goggles to protect themselves from dangerous
exposure to waste. We insist on technicians wearing gloves and glasses
during photo shoots when there is a risk of splashing during restroom
service. Ive even had a few PROs tell me they dont believe these items are
necessary, that theres nothing wrong with a little exposure to holding tank
waste. But make no mistake, cleanliness requires you to wear gloves and
protective eyewear. Make sure your trucks are stocked with ample stock of
gloves and goggles, and require your drivers to use them every time they exit
the vehicle.

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

Reflective vest: Your drivers often have to get out of the truck
alongside busy roads, and they frequently have to dart between the truck
and restroom units during service stops. You want them to be as visible
as possible to other drivers, and a reflective vest is the easiest and most
effective solution. Vests are inexpensive and make your workers easy to
spot in low-light situations.
Hard hat: They can be hot. They can be heavy and cumbersome to
wear. But a hard hat should be a prerequisite, especially at construction job
sites where hand tools and pneumatic nailers are in use. Provide the most
comfortable and sturdy hard hat you can find and spot-check workers to
ensure theyre wearing them when necessary.
Protective footwear: Open-toed shoes are a no-no for restroom service
providers. Ordinary athletic shoes also dont provide adequate protection
for feet. Leather work boots with a steel-toe option are the best answer to
protect workers feet from stubbing or crushing, and comfortable shoes will
keep your workers healthier in general. Recently we wrote about a company
that provides quality boots as a bonus for its workers. This comes with a cost
up front, but can save you money from injury downtime later on.
Hand sanitizer: Infectious germs are everywhere when youre running
a portable restroom route. Hand sanitizer is the first thing you should grab
when you return to the truck after a service. Keep a dispenser handy and use
it often to stop the spread of germs inside the truck and when your drivers
want to stop for a lunch or snack break.
Water bottle: Staying healthy on long, hot summer days requires
staying hydrated. Workers can lose a lot of water during the course of a busy
day. Make sure they have ample water on the truck. Stock a cooler with
water bottles for daily routes and make sure workers have plenty of time for
cool drinks and protein snacks during long days working special events.
What are your everyday essential safety items?
I know Im forgetting some things drivers should carry to keep themselves safe on the job. For example, a smartphone is an indispensible device
that helps you get through the day. You can share your safety tips by dropping me a line at editor@promonthly.com. Send me your ideas and Ill publish them in a future story. Remember, safety is Job No. 1. At the end of the
day, the health and happiness of your crew is what matters most.

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promonthly.com

August 2016

PUMPS

@ PROmonthly.com
Visit the site daily for new, exclusive content. Read our blogs,
find resources and get the most out of PRO magazine.

MAINTENANCE CHECKS

Sutorbilt Model 4MP

Cond 12

Protect Your Investment


Masport Model HXL4V

Shuro 2088
Pumptec 356

Burks DC10

Your vehicles are your most expensive asset and biggest investment. Your income is dependent on your trucks, so keeping
up with maintenance is key. Downtime costs you money. So its
really important that a routine of pre- and post-trip checks is ingrained in your drivers. Read this PROs advice for implementing
a system for trip inspections. promonthly.com/featured

An honest price, excellent service and premium tools are signs of a professional. On these
things, successful businesses tolerate NO COMPROMISE.
Only the business owner can control the price and quality of his service, but, when it comes to
the tools, Armstrong Equipment, Inc. can help. We are proud to offer the best quality pumps
and components available.
Like us on Facebook

800-699-7557

11200 Greenstone Ave. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670


562-944-0404 Fax: 562-944-3636
www.vacpump.com
OVERHEARD ONLINE

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Embedded in all your


payroll information is a
lot of potentially valuable
intelligence that you
could use to deploy your
staff more efficiently and
run your operation more
smoothly.

Bidding Guidelines

Taking Care of Business Payroll


promonthly.com/featured

Did you miss out on any big contracts


this year, despite your history of great
customer service and competitive pricing?
Submitting bids requires meticulous
attention to detail. Yours could be thrown
out for something as simple as forgetting
to initial a page or not making three copies.
Follow these six steps from someone who
knows her way around a bid document
to perfect your process and land those
contracts.
promonthly.com/featured

STICKING WITH SLIDE-INS

Start Small
Our cover star this month, Jay Baker of 28
Rentals in Clinton, Oklahoma, paired the
risk of entrepreneurship with a conservative
financial strategy and definitely came out on
top. He started small as in, small trucks.
Baker saved money on startup costs by
buying slide-in units instead of a bigger
vacuum truck. That move paid off. Read
about his decision and his trucks in this
exclusive online article.
promonthly.com/featured

10

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

emails and alerts


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delivered right to your inbox, and youll stay
in the loop on topics important to you!

connect
with us!
Find us on Facebook
at facebook.com/PROmonthly
or Twitter at twitter.com/PROmonthly

BEST ENTERPRISES, INC.


Building quality Stainless Steel Tanks since 1972

GAYLE HUMPHRIES
PRESIDENT & CEO

Did You Know?

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BACK at the OFFICE


August 2016

Writer Judy Kneiszel has operated her own small business for 20 years and is familiar
with the many rewards and challenges of business ownership. Write to her with
questions, comments or topic suggestions at thewordhouse@ameritech.net.

8 Payroll Tax Mistakes to Avoid


THE IRS TAKES THE WITHHOLDING OF FUNDS FROM EMPLOYEE
PAYCHECKS VERY SERIOUSLY, AND YOU SHOULD TOO
By Judy Kneiszel

aybe youre weighing the pros and cons of hiring your first employee. Maybe youve had employees for years and have been handling
the payroll taxes yourself, but arent confident youre doing everything exactly right. Or maybe youve outsourced the processing of payroll
and hardly give it a thought. One thing is certain, where there are employees, there are payroll taxes, and where there are payroll taxes, there are opportunities for costly even devastating mistakes. Here are some of the
most serious payroll mistakes:
MISTAKE NO. 1: Setting up a payroll tax program and never thinking about it again. Business owners should continually evaluate and update their payroll programs to make sure payroll taxes are being properly
withheld. State and local tax requirements can change over time, making it
crucial to stay current.
MISTAKE NO. 2: Ignoring payroll tax issues when they arise. When it
comes to payroll taxes, the Internal Revenue Service doesnt mess around.
If notified by the IRS of a problem, you must take immediate action or you
could find yourself out of business. If a business fails to file or pay its payroll
taxes, the IRS has the authority to shut that business down without a court
order. They can seize machinery and equipment. They can also intercept
funds customers owe the business.
MISTAKE NO. 3: Underestimating what a late payment will cost you.
Payroll tax penalties add up quickly and can dramatically increase the total
tax bill. You can be penalized for failure to file, failure to deposit, and the
failure to pay. If the 941 Payroll Tax Return is filed after the due date and
taxes arent paid within 16 days of that filing date, penalties can be assessed,
increasing the amount owed up to 33 percent plus interest. Falling behind
and hoping to catch up usually doesnt work. In addition, not filing or paying
payroll taxes is considered a federal crime. The IRS can send your case to the
Criminal Investigation Division and then to the Department of Justice if they
can prove you intentionally didnt file or pay. Procrastinating can cost you
money, time, reputation and worse.
MISTAKE NO. 4: Paying other bills first. If your business experiences a
cash flow problem, you have to choose which bills to pay first. Its tempting
to pay vendors or utilities first, but thats a mistake. Always make payroll
taxes your highest priority. The dollars withheld from employees paychecks
for income, Social Security and Medicare taxes are not yours. This money
does not belong to the business. These are called trust fund taxes. It is employee money held back for a specific purpose. As a business owner, you are

12

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

If a business fails to file or pay its payroll taxes, the IRS has
the authority to shut that business down without a court order.
They can seize machinery and equipment. They can also
intercept funds customers owe the business.
personally liable for paying these taxes even if your business is incorporated
or is a limited liability company. Skip a payment or pay late and the IRS will
charge a penalty equal to the unpaid taxes, plus interest. If you dont pay the
taxes, the IRS can seize your business equipment and your personal assets.
You could even be charged with a crime because borrowing from payroll
taxes is against the law. A federal tax deposit made by a tax filing service, by
phone using electronic funds transfer or in person at a bank must be made
three days after payroll checks are issued. Using the withheld money for any
other purpose is stealing.
MISTAKE NO. 5: Failing to keep accurate and complete payroll records. Because the IRS is such a stickler on payroll taxes, youll want to be an
open book on how your company handles them. You are required to maintain payroll and have them available for IRS inspection. These records include copies of W-2s, employee time sheets and other payroll records. Keep
all information for at least four years.
MISTAKE NO. 6: Not knowing tax liability can vary by state or even
county. Hiring people who live in a different state than the one your business is located in can create unemployment tax liability in their home state.
States have different rules regarding payroll taxes and rates can even vary by
county. Check with a CPA or tax attorney familiar with the rules and regulations for the states and counties in question.
MISTAKE NO. 7: Improper timing of overtime and bonus checks. Even
if your company doesnt issue payroll checks weekly, overtime hours must
be broken down in weekly increments or tax problems can arise. The same
is true for bonuses. The payment of a bonus has to line up with the due date
for payroll taxes. If the two payments dont sync, there could be tax implications. A penalty could actually be the thanks you get from the IRS for wanting to reward an employee for a job well done. Dont be a Scrooge, just consult Bob Cratchit or whoever crunches your numbers and make sure
any bonuses and overtime pay are timed right.

Putting you on the road


to logistical success.
- All In One Service/
Delivery Truck
- Most Waste
- Most Toilets
- MOST PROFITABLE
- No Pumping Angle Games
- No Early Pack Off
- Light Weight
- Aluminum Only
- Warranty

- Profits
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- Fuel
- Labor
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- Headaches

Non-CDL
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Multiple Strapping Points
PTO or Honda Pack
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Thieman Lift Gates
Carry up to 6 Units
Multiple Load Configurations
Extended Chassis Life

The Bed is the

Water Tank

585-484-7009
PortaLogix.com

PATENT PENDING

MISTAKE NO. 8: Not monitoring an outside payroll company. By now


youre thinking you should hand off payroll processing to an outside company, or youre congratulating yourself for already outsourcing this critical
task. Yes, using an outside payroll company to handle the job of calculating withholding and transferring funds to the U.S. Treasury to cover payroll
taxes can be a good solution. Keep in mind however, that as an employer
you are still ultimately responsible for payroll taxes. If you contract with a
third-party payroll-processing company, make sure it is bonded for fidelity
purposes. This means they have insurance to protect against losses, such
as embezzlement by employees, not generally covered under normal theft
policies. Also make sure tax funds your company advances to them are held
in a separate trust fund. Protect yourself and your company by monitoring
your tax account to see that funds are being deposited on time and in the
correct amount.
A FINAL WORD
If you have employees, you must make the filing and paying of payroll
taxes a priority. Dont hesitate to consult a CPA if you have any questions
or concerns. Being overly cautious is much easier than dealing with costly
mistakes.

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promonthly.com

August 2016

13

ON LOCATION
THE JOB: Boston Marathon
LOCATION: Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Getting In
the Race
Northeast Sanitation Corp. becomes part of the
starting-line ritual for 30,000 runners lacing it up in
the Boston Marathon BY BETTY DAGEFORDE

Technicians Mark Hanson, left, and John Rivera unload


PolyPortables restrooms at a staging area in Hopkinton,
Massachusetts. Northeast Sanitation Corp. used transport
trailers built in-house to deliver hundreds of units for the
Boston Marathon. (Photos by Scott Eisen)

THE PRO: Northeast Sanitation Corp.


THE TEAM
Brian McNamara is president and chief executive officer of Northeast Sanitation Corp. (NSC) in Northborough,
Massachusetts. Along with a satellite office in East Providence, Rhode Island, the company provides service to all
of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, southern New Hampshire, parts of Connecticut and occasionally Vermont. About
half the companys 48 team members were involved in the
Boston Marathon project, including Vice President Dennis
Lavoie, who spearheaded planning and execution.
COMPANY HISTORY
With a background in construction and real estate
development, McNamara was familiar with the portable
sanitation industry as a customer. But after a bad experience with a provider on one of his projects, he considered
the possibility of getting into the business himself. He did
some research, attended the 2006 Pumper & Cleaner Environmental Expo International (now the Water & Wastewater
Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show), bought 120 portable restrooms and a new truck, and a few months later was
in business.
(continued)

They won the bid and were awarded a three-year contract, which renewed
in 2016. A big selling feature was McNamaras pledge to remove all units in
one day. Weve always done that, he says. Thats like our internal contest,
is how fast we can pick them up.
THE MAIN EVENT
Patriots Day, the third Monday in April, and the Commonwealths holiday commemorating the first battles of the American Revolution, is always
the date for the famed Boston Marathon. The event has grown from 18 par-

From left, NSC Vice


President of Sales Michael
Byrne, President and
CEO Brian McNamara,
and Vice President of
Operations Dennis Lavoie
are shown in the company
yard with restrooms from
PolyPortables LLC before
heading to the Festival of
Discovery.
Growth was rapid as he took advantage of his construction contacts,
which still account for 75 percent of their work. In 2012, the company moved
from its original location in Sudbury to a new 12,000-square-foot facility. In
2015, they added septic services, although McNamara says its a small operation We needed a tanker for some of our big events and we figured it would
just be a good supplement to the business. At the 10-year mark, the company
has 5,000 portable restrooms, 20 restroom trailers and 28 service vehicles.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) has been managing the Boston
Marathon since its inception 120 years ago. In 2013, McNamara met with the
BAA, did a presentation, established a working relationship and put in a bid.

The company used a


variety of trucks like
this GMC pickup to pull
transport trailers, carrying
10 to 16 restrooms, to
deliver the units.

ticipants in 1897 to 30,000 in 2016 from 80 countries, cheered on by a million spectators. Millions
more watched through the 1,000 media personnel
and 100 media outlets on site.
Although the finish line is in Boston, the race
actually begins in the countryside 26 miles away,
in the small town of Hopkinton. The route, along winding roads and rolling
hills, passes through seven other towns before finishing up at Copley Square
in the center of Boston.
(continued)

Participants gather for pre-race


stretching and bathroom breaks at
the Boston Marathon Runners Village.
A bank of restrooms is shown in the
background. (Patrick Durkin photo)

Right: Runners advance through the


course during the famous Boston Marathon.
(Patrick Durkin photo)
Below: John Rivera makes sure a row of
restrooms is straight before runners arrive
for the marathon.

BY THE NUMBERS
NSC was tasked with providing portable
restrooms for the starting portion of the marathon in Hopkinton. The BAA worked out long
ago how many units are adequate for this size
event so that no units are overused and most
get moderate usage. They brought in eight enhanced access units and 840
standard units, all from PolyPortables, in company colors gray (fronts) and
turbo blue (sides). Units were supplied from a combination of existing inventory (Integras) and 400 new Axxis units that arrived a couple weeks before the event in time for the team to put company decals on all sides and
install hand-sanitizer dispensers. One JAG Mobile Solutions two-stall PortaLisa trailer was donated by the company for use at command center by the
state police.
At the Athletes Village in Hopkinton, 472 units were placed in two
U-shaped banks in a staging area for runners awaiting their turn at the start;
John Rivera runs through a
row of restrooms, making sure
EverGreen deodorant tabs from
J & J Chemical have been
added to the holding tanks.

18

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

200 along the route the athletes would walk to get to the starting point at
Town Common, 50 at Town Common, and the rest sprinkled throughout the
town for athletes, spectators, police and public safety personnel.
Although the company wasnt impacted by the 2013 bombing from the
aspect of getting their job done, McNamara notes theres definitely a different feeling. Its a very proud event for us, he says. The camaraderie is much
higher and were just very passionate about it. Security has definitely tightened. There was a notable heavy police presence throughout the town. The
Athletes Village was locked and guarded
and accessible only to runners and authoWe just want to be
rized personnel. Background checks were
done on all NSC personnel, vehicles were
behind the scenes.
inspected then reinspected every time they
A great event is when
entered the village, and employees were rethey dont see you
quired to be badged and uniformed.

coming and they dont


see you going.

LETS ROLL
Planning was essential to ensure everything went smoothly for this large oneBRIAN McNAMARA
day event. Lavoie sat down with the operations team over several weekends to work out all the details regarding
people, units and trucks.
They map everything out, McNamara says. He generates a master
list of whos going to be working, when theyre going to be working. He also
makes sure food deliveries are here for them when they come back so they
can stay well hydrated and energized. They also met with event organizers
to go over the details, with a final walk-through meeting on race day to make
sure everyones maps matched up.

Units were delivered in four rounds starting Thursday afternoon, finishing with a big push
Saturday of nearly 600 units. Each round consisted of a caravan of 11 trucks (Hino flatbeds and
vacuum trucks) pulling company-built trailers in
sizes ranging from 10-unit haulers to 16. A team
at the shop stocked the units with paper and
hand sanitizer, prepped them with EverGreen
deodorant products from J & J Chemical Co. and
loaded them onto the trucks. Another team was
stationed in Hopkinton to unload and set up.
Around noon on race day, as soon as all athletes cleared the start line, the company came in
with their vacuum trucks and began the removal
process. All units were pumped on site then taken
to the companys facility for thorough cleaning.

Its a very proud event for us.


The camaraderie is much higher and
were just very passionate about it.

MORE INFO
Best Enterprises, Inc.
800/288-2378
www.bestenterprises.net

J & J Chemical Co.


800/345-3303
www.jjchem.com

Masport, Inc.
800/228-4510
www.masportpump.com

(See ad page 11)

(See ad page 31)

(See ad page 3)

Hino Trucks
248/699-9334
www.hino.com

JAG Mobile Solutions


800/815-2557
www.jagmobilesolutions.com

PolyPortables, LLC
800/241-7951
www.polyportables.com
(See ad page 48)

Your Wish Is Our Command!


(no limits on the number of wishes)

BRIAN McNAMARA

KEEPIN IT CLEAN
McNamara, who likes to be loyal to his vendors, says the four service trucks they used were
all Hino 268s (2014-2016) built out by Best Enterprises with 1,000-gallon waste/500-gallon freshwater stainless steel tanks and Masport XL75
pumps. McNamara and Lavoie remained on site
during the event along with an emergency vacuum truck. Waste was taken to a municipal wastewater treatment plant.
McNamara says the company tries to keep
a low profile at events, recognizing that portable restrooms and trucks are a disruption to the
public. We just want to be behind the scenes,
he says. A great event is when they dont see you
coming and they dont see you going.
PERSONAL VICTORY
Every year, the company delivers on its original promise to event organizers to remove units
in one day. They always view it as a challenge to
beat their previous years record as to how long
it takes. In 2015 it was 10 hours, so they were
aiming for nine in 2016. But they really outdid
themselves and accomplished the work in only
seven. Perfect weather helped, Lavoie says, but
it was mostly a huge all-out effort by the team.
Weve got good, really hardworking folks, he
says. They were just going and going until it was
done.

Let Lely build you your dream septic


or portable restroom truck.
Bring us your wishes
and let us work
our magic.
Booth #711

Call or Click Today


for More Details

Wilson, NC
800.334.2763
Temple, TX
800.367.5359
www.lelytank.com

promonthly.com

August 2016

19

Sansom
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|844-972-6766
|844-972-6766
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Sansom
Industries
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Industries
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| SANSOMINDUSTRIES.COM

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* ** * *
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and
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Pick-up
and
Delivery
and
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and
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and
Delivery
Delivery
Maintenance
Maintenance
Maintenance
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*At our*At
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There
are
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know
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of
everything
and
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PRO Business
August 2016

Section 179 Deduction Lets You Keep On Truckin


NOW THAT A STRONG FEDERAL TAX BENEFIT FOR EQUIPMENT PURCHASES IS PERMANENT,
ITS TIME TO THINK MORE STRATEGICALLY ABOUT KEEPING UP WITH YOUR MACHINERY NEEDS
By Erik Gunn

heres some good news on the tax front for small companies that
spend big bucks on equipment.
After more than a decade of year-to-year uncertainty, an important federal tax deduction on equipment purchases has been made permanent part of the big federal tax and spending measure that Congress
passed and the president signed late in 2015. The deduction is found in Section 179 of the U.S. tax code, and it lets small businesses take an immediate
federal tax deduction on the price of certain kinds of new equipment in the
year its purchased.

YEARLY CLIFFHANGER
Back in the 20th century, Section 179 was a pretty small deal you
could only take it for equipment costing less than $25,000, and you could
only take the full deduction for a total of $125,000 worth of equipment purchases in a year.
In the economic slump that followed the 9/11 attacks, Congress gave
Section 179 a temporary big boost, setting the cap at $500,000 for individual
pieces of equipment that can be expensed in the year its placed in service.
Congress also raised the cap for all equipment purchases in a year that
would qualify for the full deduction to $2 million. In the nearly 15 years since
then, the higher limits have been renewed every time they were about to
expire. Thats been an annual ritual for several years now.
The latest spending plan ends that annual ritual by making those higher
limits permanent (or at least as permanent as anything gets in Washington).
No more late-December cliffhangers about the future of Section 179.
This is something truly directed at small businesses, says Patricia
Hintz, who practices tax law at the Milwaukee law firm of Quarles & Brady.
Heres how it works in practice:
Suppose in 2015 you bought a new specialized truck for $100,000. Traditionally, a purchase like that has to be depreciated over a fixed period of
time. That means you cant deduct the full cost the year you buy the vehicle
instead, you deduct a portion of the cost over several years, using a formula that also reflects its depreciating value.
FINANCIAL FLEXIBILITY
(Depending on a lot of factors, you might even want to stick with that
approach. Thats way beyond the scope of this column, though and what
we say here is no substitute for what your professional legal and financial
advisers who know the details of your business circumstances can tell you.)
Section 179 allows you to take the full deduction in year one for that
$100,000 truck. By the way, you can take it no matter whether youre paying
for the truck in full when you buy it, or whether you finance the purchase
so youre paying for it over several years. On the tax forms, the Section 179
deduction, if you take it, is for the full $100,000.

22

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

That $100,000 comes off the total taxable income of your business or
your own taxable income if your business, like most smaller firms, is organized as an S corporation of a limited liability corporation, with the income
passing straight through to the owner.
It takes your income down dollar for dollar, Hintz says. The actual
effect to your taxes depends on what bracket youre in.
To someone for whom the marginal tax bracket is 30 percent, an additional $100,000 deduction will reduce your tax bill by $30,000, she explains.
LIMITS AND COMPLICATIONS
If you spend more than $2 million a year on equipment that qualifies for
the Section 179 treatment, the tax break starts to phase out.
And the provision only applies to equipment; other kinds of expenses
such as real estate dont qualify for the immediate deduction it offers.
There are some other wrinkles. First, you dont have to take the Section
179 deduction for the entire cost; if its to your financial advantage to take
only part of it and depreciate the rest of the cost over the next several years,
you have that choice. Second, you cant benefit from the full deduction if
your business reports a net loss for the year or would if the full deduction was counted. But you can carry forward the deduction to future years so
long as you claim it to start with.
But complexities like those are yet another reason you must work with
your professional adviser before making any decision of this sort. (And if
youre losing money or close to it, you have problems a whole lot bigger than
how to best deduct the cost of a new truck on your taxes!)
STRATEGIC THINKING
With or without Section 179, theres another important lesson: Having
the robust benefit can unquestionably provide a great help to your bottom
line. But its never the reason to make that purchase. You really need to take
stock of what the purchase is going to be worth to your business, says Randall Turner, a financial consultant based in Bradford, Pennsylvania, with
extensive experience in equipment-heavy industries.
Business owners will and should weigh several factors before buying a large asset, Turner explains: what they need vs. what they want, whether to buy new or used, how much they can afford, how theyll pay for it and
whether its the best use of their money.
But then theres the most unexplored question that really should be
the first question, he adds: What is the return on investment and payback
period of the asset to be purchased?
That requires carefully considering what the real revenue of the new
machinery will be and what it really costs to run it.
There may be a startup period where the machine is slowly eased
into service over a period of months, Turner says. As more clients dis-

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rapidly expanding demand and get put to use overtime right away only
to suddenly go unused after the initial burst of excitement, once pent-up
demand is exhausted.
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What is the return
payments, fuel and maintenance,
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and labor to operate the machine in
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payback period
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pare the expected ROI with how much
purchased? There
return youd expect to get in an altermay be a startup
native investment with similar risk,
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machine is slowly
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eased into service
Subtracting costs from the annual
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the equipment will
The world is changing too fast to
earn its keep.
simply assume a perpetual status quo,
Turner points out. Everyone thinks
Randall Turner
the worlds going to stay like it is, says
Turner. How stable is your market?
Hes seeing banks close their fists now looking for excuses not to
loan money. That means any purchase should be accompanied by a solid
financial prospectus for the acquisition.
And for that reason, even just relying on a standard replacement cycle
isnt necessarily the right move. Instead of planning a replacement cycle of
five or seven years, I would look at it every year because every year your
environment changes, Turner says.
So where does that leave you? The bottom line is you now have a reliable, robust tax break to count on when buying new equipment. But more
than ever, changing circumstances will require you to undertake a careful
analysis of equipment needs and your ability to support the purchase for
the long term.
And that will be worth a lot more than any tax break, no matter how
generous.
Erik Gunn is a magazine writer and editor in Racine, Wisconsin.

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promonthly.com

August 2016

23

FILE
COVER STORY

STOKING
THE FLAMES

Oklahoma firefighter Jay Baker fans


entrepreneurial embers to build a successful
restroom business BY KEN WYSOCKY

28 Rentals LLC
Clinton,
Oklahoma

Owners: Jay and Misty Baker


Founded: 2011
Employees: 5
Specialties: Portable sanitation, septic service
Service area: 60-mile radius around Clinton
Website: www.28rentals.com

Oklahoma

s a farmer and a former full-time firefighter, Jay Baker would


appear to have an unusual pedigree for a portable restroom
operator. But judging from the success of 28 Rentals, the
company he started in 2011 with his wife, Misty, it turns out that a
farmers work ethic and an ability to respond quickly under pressure are useful skills in building a business from scratch.
When combined with a frugal financial mindset, the ability
to provide great customer service and a willingness to try different
things to diversify his business base, those initial traits have served
Baker well. Five years into his new career, the company has grown
(continued)

The 28 Rentals crew includes,


from left, Jay Baker, Calvin
Baggett, Levi Fieselman and Brian
Sperle. (Photos by Nick Oxford)

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from 28 restrooms and one service truck to 160 restrooms, two restroom
service trucks, a septic vacuum truck, five emergency shower trailers and
four cooling trailers that provide respite for oilfield workers during scorching-hot days.
It all just sort of came together and its still coming together to this day,
Baker says, noting how he continues to diversify to meet demand for niche
services. Monthly construction rentals generate about two-thirds of his restroom business and the rest comes primarily from oilfield and pipeline companies. My guys come in from the field and say, Lets try this. Hell often
take them up on suggestions.
DO SOMETHING
Youve got to be willing to try different things, he says. My motto is
this: If you do something, something happens, but if you do nothing, nothing happens. And that pertains to just about anything. You dont know if
something will work until you try.
A good example is the emergency shower trailers, made by Rich Specialty Trailers. Alert to new
business opportunities, Baker
was intrigued when a friend
who used to work in the oilfields, Brian Sperle, mentioned
that oilfield companies needed
a contractor who could rent a
reliable shower trailer. It took
me a while to save up the money, Baker says. But I finally
bought one in early 2013 and
then bought four more, about
one every six months. I got to
know the customers well, and if
they added another crew, then
Id buy a new trailer.
Baker still remembers his
first shower trailer customer.
The call came at 5 a.m. on a
frigid December day; the wind
chill was 12 degrees below zero. The shower trailer the oilfield company was
using out in the Texas panhandle, about a 1 1/2-hour drive away froze
up and work couldnt proceed without an operational trailer. All five of my
trailers are heated I didnt skimp, Baker says. So I got out of bed and took
care of the deal. They were sitting on me, waiting for me to get there. The
safety director wouldnt let them do anything until I got there. Theyve been
a good customer ever since.
That anecdote underscores another reason for 28 Rentals success:
Respond quickly to what customers need, when they need it, and repeat
business usually follows. You need to provide the service you tell someone
youre going to provide, he says. If you want to run a successful business,
you work seven days a week, regardless of what time it is.
PUTTING OUT FIRES
Baker is a busy guy. Along with 28 Rentals, he still owns a 1,400-acre
farm that includes 85 head of cattle. Moreover, he still serves as a firefighter,
this time as a part-time volunteer. The farm was the catalyst for establishing
28 Rentals (which is named after his firefighting badge number). With his
back to the wall financially due to a prolonged drought, Baker started looking for a business that would mesh well with the farm operation.
My friend Brian (Sperle) used to work out in the oilfields and knew that
financially, we were just paying the bills, Baker recalls. He came into the

26

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

Above: Shower trailers are popular on the oil


patch, where crews value getting cleaned up after
a long day of work. Baker is shown inside one of
his units from Rich Specialty Trailers.
Left: Baker maintains one of his shower trailers
stored at the 28 Rentals warehouse. He has
purchased several shower trailers from Rich
Specialty Trailers.
firehouse one day and said I should buy some restrooms and rent them out.
I went on the internet and did research on toilet vendors and startup costs.
There already are other good
competitors
here that provide qualMy motto is this:
ity service, he continues. But there
If you do something,
was room for us to grow, too. I figsomething happens,
ured if I kept costs low it might work
but if you do nothing, out. Its not like I was throwing a couple hundred thousand dollars at it.
nothing happens.
Baker still remembers watching
And that pertains to
the truck drive away after dropping
just about anything.
off his initial delivery of coincidentally enough 28 restrooms. I
You dont know if
turned to Brian and said, Now what
something will work
in the Sam Hill am I going to do?
until you try.
And he said, Rent them out.
And thats exactly what Baker
JAY BAKER
did. Using friends and family members contacts as well as his own, he started out with a very simple, old-fashioned marketing plan: phone calls to prospective customers. His first rental
was to a neighboring farmer who also works as a contractor. Hes still a customer today, Baker notes.
(continued)

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promonthly.com

August 2016

27

Keeping it cool
To survive as a portable restroom operator in a small town, it helps to offer complementary services to customers. Thats why, along with providing portable restrooms and emergency shower trailers to oilfield companies, Jay Baker, owner of 28
Rentals in Clinton, Oklahoma, also offers four cooling trailers.
Built on 16-foot flatbed trailers, the evaporative cooling units give oilfield workers respite during scorching-hot Oklahoma summers. The open-air trailers include
screen walls that roll up and down, and each seats about 10 workers.
We rent them mainly to fracking crews on drilling rigs, Baker explains. At a
certain temperature, companies are required to provide a place for their employees
to cool off. The heat indices here get pretty high in the upper 90s pretty easily and
even the lower 100s. On average, the temperature inside is about 15 degrees cooler
than it is outside.
Units feature a 325-gallon water tank and a QuietCool portable cooling unit made
by Quietaire. The cooling unit consists of a water pump, cardboard-like baffles and a
48-inch fan. Water from the tank gravity-feeds into the bottom of the cooler, where
a pump sends water up a pipe that distributes it onto the baffles. The fan, mounted
on the other side of the baffles, pulls the water across the baffles; as that occurs, the
water evaporates and cools the air.
Baker points out that the water tank needs refilling regularly, which requires
extra trips back and forth to drilling rigs. If the air temperature is about 100 degrees,
we have to fill it every day if it runs continuously, he says. The humidity gets so
low that quite a bit of water evaporates. You need to charge customers accordingly
because theres a lot of time involved with hauling water out to customers every day.
But the cooling trailers go hand in hand with the showers trailers we run
them off a shower-trailer generator, he adds. The profit margins on the cooling
trailers arent huge, but its a great value-added service that helps keep our customers satisfied.

ON THE RADIO
Slowly but surely, business grew, augmented by newspaper advertising,
two portable trailer-mounted LED signs and word-of-mouth referrals and
hustling to go the extra yard to service customers.
To further promote his company, Baker started running ads last fall
during radio broadcasts of Oklahoma State University football games. The
ads cost several thousand dollars, and he says its too soon to gauge their
effectiveness. Im just going on the premise that if people hear something
enough, they eventually remember it, he explains. I expect it will pay dividends in the long run.
The companys marketing efforts also include effective branding in the
form of fire-engine-red restrooms with white tops. People see them and
know theyre 28 Rentals restrooms without even seeing the sticker on the
side, he says. Our service trucks are red and white, too. I think it (cohesive
branding) has helped because people talk about it. It sure hasnt hurt.
A FIT FLEET
As the company expanded, Baker invested in more equipment. In addition to the shower and cooling trailers, the company now owns about 160
restrooms, made mostly by PolyJohn Enterprises and a few from PolyPortables, and 15 hand-wash stations from PolyJohn and Satellite Industries.
For service vehicles, 28 Rentals relies on two Dodge 4500 pickup trucks
carrying slide-in units made by Best Enterprises. One has a 300-gallon
waste/100-gallon freshwater stainless steel tank and also carries a 200-gallon plastic tank for brine water during winter to prevent restroom tanks from
freezing. The other truck has a 400-gallon waste/100-gallon freshwater/150gallon brine water stainless steel tank. Both trucks
Levi Fieselman
also carry Conde (Westmoor Ltd.) vacuum pumps.
checks the oil on
In addition, the company has one septic service
the quad-cab Dodge
rig. Built out on a 2005 International 4300 by TexLa
service rig.

28

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

Services in Texas, it features a 1,100-gallon waste/300-gallon freshwater


steel tank and a Jurop/Chandler pump.
Why pump septic tanks? Again, Baker spotted an opportunity to expand and diversify. I saw there was a growing need for septic service in our
area because more people are moving to small acreages outside of town,
he notes.
To clean septic tanks faster and minimize technician fatigue, Baker
bought a Crust Buster. It saves us time from flushing and backflushing, he
explains. Id say it saves about 20 minutes per job, which adds up over the
course of a year. We dont get paid by the hour, we get paid by the job, so the
more efficient we are, the more money were making.
A CAUTIOUS APPROACH
Baker buys new equipment only when hes sure it can generate enough
revenue to make the financing payments. That frugal mindset paid off recently as oil prices dropped, which has left his shower trailers sitting in the
companys yard, unrented, more often than not. But because he took revenue generated by the service and consisTechnician Levi Fieselman
tently applied it to paying off the loan, the
makes a stop on a service route. equipment is paid off.
Hes shown servicing PolyJohn
Itll come back some day, he says of
Enterprises restrooms with a
the
slumping
oil market. But even though
Dodge service truck carrying
a Best Enterprises tank and
(continued)
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those machines are sitting here, it doesnt bother me as much because


theyre paid for.
In an effort to keep diversifying his business base and generate different revenue streams, Baker recently invested in five roll-off trash containers
made by Texas Pride Mfg. Theyll keep a little cash flow coming in if other
things slow down, he says.
To differentiate himself from
competitors, he purchased smaller, 11There already
and 13-cubic-yard units, while aiming
are other good
to capitalize on an underserved niche
competitors here
market. People dont need a big (container) to clean out a barn or a house,
that provide quality
he explains. A lot of companies rent
service. But there
big ones, but no one is renting little
was room for us to
ones. Im just trying to find a little
grow, too. I figured
niche and keep my costs down, as well
as for my customers.
if I kept costs low it

might work out.

MANAGEABLE GROWTH
How does Baker handle running
JAY BAKER
a business and a farm simultaneously?
He credits great employees and help from everyone in the family: Misty and
sons 17-year-old Sketchley (Bakers grandmother-in-laws maiden name)
and 11-year-old Charley. Even his daughter Malley, 8, helps out, assisting
her mom in the office. Between all of us, we get it done, Baker says.
When asked about the companys future, Baker admits hes concerned about the oil industry downturn. Where we live, this downturn
eventually will affect every household and their decisions about spending
money, he says.
Nonetheless, thanks to diversified services, he still expects steady
growth. Thats fine with him, because he believes that rapid, exponential
growth makes running a business less manageable, plus quality control can
diminish, too. We might have to extend our core area just a little bit more
look a little farther out to pick up a new customer or two, he adds.
In the meantime, Baker will keep putting out fires of a different kind
those little daily flare-ups that come with running a business. I havent
regretted it one day, he says of his career detour. Im out and about all the
time In this business, the fun part is you never know where youre going
to take a restroom.

MORE INFO
Best Enterprises, Inc.
800/288-2378
www.bestenterprises.net
(See ad page 11)

Crust Busters
888/878-2296
www.crustbusters.com
Jurop/Chandler
800/342-0887
www.chandlerequipment.com
PolyJohn Enterprises, Inc.
800/292-1305
www.polyjohn.com
(See ad page 47)

30

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

PolyPortables, LLC
800/241-7951
www.polyportables.com
(See ad page 48)

Quietaire Corporation
713/228-9421
www.quietaire.com
Rich Specialty Trailers
260/593-2279
www.richrestrooms.com
Satellite Industries
800/328-3332
www.satelliteindustries.com
(See ad page 15)

Westmoor Ltd.
800/367-0972
www.westmoorltd.com

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Promote the Positive Message


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By Karleen Kos

Your playing small does not serve the world.


Who are you not to be great? Nelson Mandela

f you have been paying attention over the past few years, you know PSAI
has been raising awareness of the many benefits of portable sanitation.
We even declared every Aug. 15 World Portable Sanitation Day to draw
attention to the valuable role our industry plays globally and environmentally. In fact, the third annual WPSD celebration is going on right now, bolstered by companies like yours who are working hard to spread the word.

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34

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

But we can be real. I know a lot of you are thinking, Why does this
matter to me? Im just trying to run a successful business here in (location),
and I dont have time to spend on extras. My customers dont care about
this stuff.
Perhaps they dont. Then again, what if they did care and you have been
missing the chance to promote your business and our industry?
A study by GfK Roper Consulting Green Gauge found:
Americans still want companies to go green, and there is evidence that
they give credit to companies that do so. About three in four (74 percent)
agree a (company) that reduces the environmental impact ... is making a
smart business decision.
So, odds are good that three out of four of your customers would be
interested in knowing that portable sanitation is a green industry. Is this
something you tell them? Importantly:
Portable sanitation saves water. As much as 125 million gallons a day.
Weve got the data to prove it. When water is in short supply whether thats
because theres been a disaster, youre outside a long way from permanent
facilities, or you live in a Third World country portable sanitation is a
critical service.
Portable sanitation saves lives. Around 2.5 billion people dont have
access to a toilet and they are not all in developing nations, according
to the World Health Organization. The resulting contamination leads to
diseases that sicken or kill millions of people each year. Germs are not
selective, and portable sanitation promotes everyones health (yes, in North
America, too) by keeping fecal matter isolated.
Portable sanitation saves the environment. As most PROs and
not many customers know, portable restroom waste is recycled and
returned to aquifers. Where land application is allowed, properly treated
waste provides nutrients for the ground. Many deodorizing products contain
natural bacteria and enzymes that are environmentally friendly and help
break down the waste. You wont find many industries that are greener
than ours.
We all know that portable sanitation gets a bad rap. Thats hardly a
secret. But lets not let the very positive side of our industry become a secret
instead. We provide better work sites, better weekends and a better world.
Lets work together to educate and inspire customers and stakeholders. They
still may not love a portable restroom, but they can come to respect them
as a noble and necessary service. Then everybody wins.
Playing small does not serve the world. Who are we not to be great?

IN THE GARAGE
August 2016

What Do You Look For in a Hand Tool?


A SURE-HANDLING AND DURABLE TOOL IS THE MECHANICS BEST FRIEND. LOOK BEYOND
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, WEIGHT AND WARRANTY WHEN CHOOSING WHAT GOES IN YOUR BOX.
By Ed Wodalski

heres something about the feel of a well-crafted hand tool. Perhaps


its the weight, the finish, the design or just knowing you can depend on it to get the job done time after time.
How do you know what brand and quality of tool is right for you? That
depends on how often you use it and the job youre performing. You dont
need a $100 hammer to hang a picture, but you wouldnt want anything less
than the best possible wrench when wrestling with a bolt in a confined engine compartment.
As any portable restroom technician who has spent a lot of time in the
shop knows, not all tools are the same, but all will do the job they were intended to do. For starters, hand tools generally fall into three categories
professional, intermediate, and consumer or DIY.
EVERYDAY USE
Professional-grade tools are made to be used every day all day long.
In short, theyre made to last. Snap-on is a brand that often comes to mind.
They are the personal work tools of mechanics. These are the tools you dont
want to lend or leave laying around
the shop primarily because theyre
not cheap. Keep in mind, professional
in name does not mean professional
in grade.

Right: A ratcheting crowfoot


wrench can simplify the job
in tight locations. (Photo
courtesy GearWrench)

Left:
GearWrenchs
120-tooth
ratchet provides
extra bite.
(Photo courtesy
GearWrench)

Professional-grade tools are made to be used every day


all day long. In short, theyre made to last. They are
the personal work tools of mechanics. These are the tools
you dont want to lend or leave laying around the shop
primarily because theyre not cheap.
Intermediate, mid-tier-grade tools are often shared by everyone in the
shop. While good in quality, theyre not on the same level as professionalgrade tools. As a result, they are less costly to replace if lost or stolen. Keeping
with the Snap-on name, Blue Point is the companys mid-tier or mid-grade
automotive brand. The company also owns Williams, a mid-grade tool designed for industrial use. They are not simply Snap-on tools rebranded.
Lastly are the retail or consumer-grade tools found in many big-box
stores. Theyre designed for infrequent use the do-it-yourselfer or weekend warrior who needs a functional, relatively
inexpensive product.
Each level of tool has numerous brands
to choose from. But how do you know youre
getting the best value for your dollar?
PERSONAL PREFERENCE
Many old-schoolers point to weight and
country of origin. Others insist on service and
availability. In the end it comes down to personal preference: Do you like a soft or hard
grip?
If youre a professional mechanic and are
happy with your tool performance, selection
and service, you probably have no reason to
change. But if youre in charge of buying tools
for the shop or are an occasional mechanic,
you might be tempted to shop around.
Lets start with country of origin. For years, Made in the USA was the
gold standard. And many buyers still rely on it for their decision-making.
Snap-on makes all of its flagship brand tools in the U.S., as does Armstrong, a
member of the Apex Tool Group. But that doesnt mean you cant find a good
set of tools made on foreign soil.
(continued)

36

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

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Tool Tips:
Whenever youre working with hand tools its a good practice to wear
safety glasses. Gloves are also recommended, but can be cumbersome in
tight spaces. Whatever brand of tool you own, it will last longer if properly
stored and cared for. Here are a few tips to get the most life from your tools:
On any job you do, you want to thoroughly inspect your tools before
and after use a broken tip on a screwdriver, for example; a rounded
edge on a socket, says John Ficcadenti, product manager, Snap-on
Industrial.
You always want to wipe them down and store them properly, he
says. Put it back in its right place in your toolbox or drawer so the next
time youre ready to use it its ready to be used. If theyre your tools and
youre not sharing them with anybody else, youre going to know you put
your tools away in the right place in the proper order.
Most chrome tools can be cleaned with a rag; wipe them off and put
them away. Ratchets can be greased but shouldnt be cleaned in solvent; it
sucks the grease out, says Jim Stewart, brand manager for GearWrench.
Impact sockets and pry bars can develop rust spots. Clean them with
an oily rag or use a little WD-40, he says.
In the case of a click-style torque wrench, loosen the spring before you
store it. Turn it down to its lowest possible setting.

Thoroughly
inspect your
tools before
and after
use. When
using torque
wrenches, be
sure to loosen
the spring to its
lowest setting
before storing.
(Photo courtesy
Snap-on)
A lot of guys are very fervent; they want to buy products that are made
in the USA, says Jim Stewart, brand manager for GearWrench. Thats why
our company, Apex Tool Group, has brands like Armstrong that are made in
the USA. They deliver a good quality, made-in-the-USA product if thats all
they want to buy. However, I work for GearWrench. We have our manufacturing done in Taiwan and China.
Because we own the plant, we can develop the specs of the product. If
its an ASME spec, we can go 200 or 150 percent above that; we can determine
how strong we want to make it. Well test prototypes in our lab and do site
testing. That means we end up with a well-designed product that should meet
all of our specifications, Stewart says. On the manufacturing side, we can
enforce quality control. Incoming materials get tested to make sure they meet
specifications, and when it comes to forging and machining, theres gauging
to make sure the parts are to the size they should be. You can do all those tests
when you own the plant, rather than buying from an unknown source.
In short, if you want to buy USA, buy Armstrong. But if youre willing
to go for a good quality product from overseas, then GearWrench is a brand
that will fit that requirement.
A WEIGHTY DECISION
As for weight, heavier is not necessarily better, says John Ficcadenti,
product manager, Snap-on Industrial.
There are old-school mechanics who love a heavy tool because in their

38

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

mind and in their experience, the heavier a tool is, the more reliable, dependable or stronger it is. But when somebody has that tool in their hand
for six, eight, 10 hours a day, you start dealing with the ergonomics carpal
tunnel, shoulder strain, wrist strain and elbow strain. Customers are beginning to understand the benefits of a lighter-weight tool. It doesnt have to
be heavy to be strong. We work with metallurgists on a daily basis to look at
different materials that are lighter in weight but as strong as steel.
A lifetime warranty can be another determining factor when buying
tools. Think of it as insurance
on your investment.
Its there if you ever
need it, Ficcadenti says. But
you dont really want to utilize it. You want that tool to
stand up to any and all conditions. Now, we know there
are customers out there abusing tools and using them in
ways they were not designed.
For example, guys will put a
cheater bar on the end of a
ratchet to break a bolt loose.
Theyre really not supposed
to be doing that. That not only
compromises the safety of the
individual using the tool but
the people around him.
Stewart says when it
Properly stored tools are
comes to warranties, lifetime or otherwise, its imeasier to find and reduce
portant to have a manufacturer that will stand bethe chance of theft.
hind the product and allow you to replace it where
(Photo courtesy Snap-on)
it was bought.
Ultimately, the most important qualifier
when buying a tool is how well it helps you do the job.
If youre working in tight quarters, a low-profile wrench might be a better fit or a multi-toothed drive might give you more socket movement, Stewart says.
People used to be pretty happy with a 24- or a 36-tooth count. But now
the standard is way above that. GearWrench had a 60-tooth until about three
years ago and we upped that to an 84-tooth. Thats kind of our baseline tooth
count now, he says. It gives you a much finer swing arch. And it obviously
gives you much better access in tight spaces. We also have a 120XP ratchet,
which has 120 positions. It gives you the bite you need when youre in a really, really tight space.

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39

W W E T T S P OT L I G H T

Water Cannon
Pressure Washer Offers
Industrial Cleaning Power
By Craig Mandli
In the wastewater industry, diversifying services can mean the difference
between profitability and spinning your wheels. Thats why Water Cannon, a
longtime manufacturer of pressure washing equipment, has veered into producing products that can not only be used for cleaning sewer pipes and portable restrooms, but also industrial and oil rig cleaning. The companys newest
unit, a high-volume/high-pressure washer, was on display at the 2016 Water &
Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport (WWETT) Show.
This is a unit that can move mud, or be used for jetting, cleaning sewers, portable restrooms, or anytime when you need to potentially move a
lot of dirt, says Mark Williams, the national sales manager and product
manager for Water Cannon. This is something that allows us to market our
products to different fields of the industry.
Pumping power is provided by the RTX line of industrial-strength Annovi Reverberi triplex pumps that come in five options offering flows from
8 to over 26 gpm and pressures from 1,800 to 4,500 psi. The large crankcase

40

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

enables longer running times for indus- Mark Williams, right, the national
sales manager and product
trial needs. The pumps run at 1,450 rpm
manager for Water Cannon,
and have a 30 by 80 mm solid shaft with
discusses his companys new
a 1-inch inlet and 1/2-inch outlet. They
high-volume/high-pressure washer
have a 76-ounce oil capacity. The version
with an attendee at the 2016
on display at WWETT 2016 was equipped WWETT Show. While the line is
available in multiple versions, the
with an RTX70 pump offering 18.5 gpm at
display unit was equipped with
2,200 psi.
an Annovi Reverberi RTX70 pump
This is the midlevel RTX pump,
offering 18.5 gpm at 2,200 psi.
which is a good multipurpose pump for (Photo by Craig Mandli)
a septic pumper that has portable restrooms but also wants to diversify into
some industrial or sewer cleaning, says Williams. Once you get into the
bigger pumps, youre looking at mounting them on industrial vacuum
trucks, and more of the hydrotrenching and excavating market.
The pump is powered by a CH980 32 hp Kohler gas engine with electric start, and the whole unit comes skid-mounted with 50 feet of 1/2-inch
jetting hose. Williams says that not only were pumping and drain cleaning
contractors interested in learning more about the unit at the WWETT Show,
industrial cleaners and jetters saw an application for it as well.
The nice thing about this show is the mix of smaller equipment up
through large industrial units that are on display, Williams says of the
WWETT Show. Its a great mix of everything thats out there, and really gives
a lot of great options for operators looking to diversify. Certainly the interest
we are seeing in this is going to urge us to look at producing even bigger units
in the future.
The 2016 WWETT Show was Water Cannons first as an exhibitor, and
Williams says based on the interest and amount of leads he picked up in the
first couple days, theyll definitely be back.
A lot of the people at this show have been drawn in by seeing our highvolume unit right out front, but once we start talking to them, we can tell
them about all the other products we offer, says Williams. That has definitely created interest in several of our other units that might be a better fit
for them. Not only are the people here diversifying what they do, its causing
us to diversify what we offer. 800/333-9274; www.watercannon.com.

Feb. 22-25, 2017


www.wwettshow.com

Water & Wastewater Equipment,


Treatment & Transport Show
Expo
The latest technology. The newest equipment.
The best ideas.

Learn

Education sessions led by the industrys top experts.

Network
This is where the industry gathers.

The WWETT Show is the worlds largest


annual trade show for environmental
service professionals. Over 10,000
attendees will gather from across the U.S.
and beyond to see the latest in equipment
and technology in the expo hall, participate
in over 100 education sessions, and network
with professional colleagues.
Sign up today at www.wwettshow.com, and
well notify you when registration opens
this October.

PRODUCT FOCUS
August 2016

Hand-Wash Equipment and Supplies


By Craig Mandli
PAPER PRODUCTS

HAND SANITIZERS

CPACEX FOAMING HAND SYSTEM


CPACEX Foaming Hand Systems can help make
hand cleansing easier and more effective. The foam
dispenses from the top of the unit, eliminating leaks
and waste, and delivering the right amount of cleanser to kill 99.9 percent of common germs found on
hands. The system meets all CDC recommendations
for hand antiseptic. The push-pad at the top of the dispenser eliminates over-dispensing waste and is ADAcompliant. The refill bag system contains less plastic
than hard cartridges, and reduces packaging waste by 50
percent, according to the maker. 800/974-7383; www.cpacex.com.

HAULER AGENT WHISKCARE 375


Whiskcare 375 hand sanitizer from
Whisk Products, distributed by Hauler Agent, is fragrance free, does not
drip in summer heat, contains no artificial color and meets European sanitizing requirements. It is designed to
meet the needs of organic farmers with no special retrofitting of dispensers. 888/557-1460;
www.hauleragent.com.

WALEX EXODOR
INSTANT HAND SANITIZER
Exodor Instant Hand Sanitizer from
Walex kills 99.9 percent of the most
common disease-causing germs with
just one dispenser pump. Its easy to
rub in with a great after-feel, and helps
maintain skin health without water
needed, according to the maker. The
800 mL bag-in-box system is easy to
use and install. Each case comes with
12 bag-in-box systems. Dispensers are sold separately. 800/338-3155;
www.walex.com.

42

August 2016

Portable Restroom Operator

CENTURY PAPER & CHEMICALS


CENTER PULL TOWEL
The two-ply Center Pull Towel from Century Paper & Chemicals comes six rolls to a case, and is 7
inches wide with a 3-inch core and 550 feet long. Other hand towel products such as Single Fold, C-Fold
and Multifold Kraft and bleached hand towels are
available. 866/767-2737; www.centurypaper.com.

DEL VEL CHEM CO. SIMPLY SOFT


Simply Soft toilet tissue from Del Vel Chem Co.
offers an alternative to standard tissue with the
small-core roll lasting 2 1/2 to five times
longer and the double roll lasting 1 1/2
to three times longer than standard rolls. Each roll of tissue is individually wrapped and packaged.
800/699-9903; www.delvel.com.

PORTABLE SANITATION ACCESSORIES/SUPPLIES

COMFORTS OF HOME SERVICES


EMOTION HANDS-FREE
The Emotion Hands-Free stainless steel paper towel dispenser from Comforts of Home
Services provides all the same features of the
standard Emotion dispenser, but in a sleeker
profile with the added durability of stainless
steel. The company provides many hands-free
options, ideal for handicap-accessible restroom trailers or handicap-accessible lowering modules that can be used on larger trailer
models. 630/906-8002; www.cohsi.com.

PORTABLE SANITATION ACCESSORIES/SUPPLIES

J & J CHEMICAL CO. J-LIGHT


The solar-powered, motion-activated
J-Light from J & J Chemical Co. is
designed to be a dependable light
source and easily installed in the roof
through a 1 1/2-inch hole. The self-contained solar panel acts as a day/night sensor,
saving energy during the day and charging the batteries, allowing the light to
activate only when its dark. The long-life rechargeable batteries will save operators time and money not having to replace standard alkaline batteries, as well
as operate more environmentally friendly. The motion sensor turns the light on
when activity is detected. Once the toilet is exited or there is no longer activity,
the light will remain on for 35 seconds then turn itself off. Five high-intensity
LEDs emit 30 lumens of light. 800/345-3303; www.jjchem.com.
PORTABLE SINKS

ARMAL AQUA STAND


The Aqua Stand outdoor portable hand-wash sink from
Armal is designed to withstand any weather condition
and can be used for construction, special events and in
municipal parks. Its 23-gallon water tank has a tamperresistant lid. It has foot-pump operation and optional soap
and paper towel dispensers. It is double-sided, lightweight
and easy to maneuver and use. It fits inside the Armal Wave
restroom unit, and most other portable restrooms for easy
transport. 770/491-6410; www.armal.biz.

EXPLORER TRAILERS
HAND-WASH STATION
The hand-wash station from
Explorer Trailers is designed
as a self-contained unit that allows
outdoor event or work site crowds to have
easy access to warm water and soap dispensers. Options include mirrors and lighting. Stainless steel
sinks and counters with self-closing water-saver faucets are simple to clean
and maintain, according to the maker. A large polyethylene freshwater tank,
paired with a galvanized graywater tank, ensure plenty of use before the need
to discharge and recharge. Setup is easy, and a custom-painted steel chassis
with front locking utility cabinet ensures that the unit is aesthetically pleasing, while safely containing the water heater and pressure tank. The graywater tank is horizontally mounted inside the chassis with a 2-inch discharge
port at the rear. All are built on a commercial-grade trailer chassis for easy
towing and placement on site. 866/457-5425; www.explorertrailers.com.

FIVE PEAKS SIERRA RIDEALONG


The Sierra RideAlong freestanding hand-wash station
from Five Peaks has twin basins with molded-in
maintenance-free spigots, recessed beverage holders,
dual soap dispensers, an oversized paper towel dispenser and a large recessed foot-pump area. It is suited for special events, yet is durable enough to handle
day-to-day use, according to the maker. The granite
color camouflages dirt and scratches, keeping the
sink looking new. It conveniently rides along inside
most standard portable restrooms, making transportation more economical. The lightweight, heavyduty rotationally molded sink enables easy access for cleaning
and draining. Its 49-gallon capacity (22-gallon freshwater and 27-gallon
graywater) eliminates the need for bladders and bags. 866/293-1502;
www.fivepeaks.net.

MONSAM ENTERPRISES
PSE-2004LA
The PSE-2004LA commercial four
deep-basin portable sink from Monsam Enterprises can provide hot and
cold running water, eliminating the need
for plumbing. It is designed to clean utensils and cooking equipment, while providing
a separate basin for hand washing. It can be used outdoors or indoors, and
provides three 12-inch-deep basins to wash, rinse and sanitize, as well as two
drain boards. It meets health specifications and provides a safe and easy choice
for running water requirements. Despite its sleek design, it provides ample
washing space and safety lock casters. The water heater and water pump are
UL-approved. It is also available in propane/battery-powered options. Portable sinks are also available in one, two or three-basin models. 800/513-8562;
www.portablesink.com.

promonthly.com

August 2016

43

PORTABLE SINKS

NUCONCEPTS DELI SINK


The Deli Sink from NuConcepts has
three compartments with fold-down
drain boards. It is constructed from an
NFS stainless steel shell, and includes a
prerinse faucet, 18-inch double-jointed
faucet and a separate hand-wash faucet. It comes with a soap dispenser and
water inlet with a regulation. It operates
on 110-volt power. 800/334-1065; www.nuconcepts.com.

POLYJOHN HEATED GRANDSTAND


The Heated Grandstand compact, portable sink from
PolyJohn has a foot pump for hygienic, hands-free operation. It includes soap and paper towel dispensers, and a
molded handle. Its warm water capability can help service
providers expand rentals into new markets. It comes with
heavy-duty rubber wheels, making it usable at schools,
food kiosks, farmers markets and refineries. Plug the unit
into any 110-volt outlet and its ready to go. 800/292-1305;
www.polyjohn.com.

POLYPORTABLES SUPER TWIN


The Super Twin portable sink from PolyPortables
has double the hand-washing capacity of
a standard unit, making it a choice for large
construction sites, festivals or other highly
attended events. It has a 45-gallon freshwater capacity, 45-gallon graywater capacity,
foot-pump operation, and is designed to accommodate complete forearm washing. It has
dual, molded-in spigots that make for a vandaldiscouraging design. Large cutouts make the
foot pumps easily accessible, even for users in heavy
work boots. The unit has no risky bags or bladders, and comes
with two spray soap dispensers, lockable paper towel dispensers, and a 1.8
gpm foot pump. Options include a Super Mate to provide forearm pump
ADA-compliant hand washing. 800/241-7951; www.polyportables.com.

Featured
In An
Article?
We provide
reprint options

44

August 2016

SATELLITE INDUSTRIES BREEZE


The Breeze easy-to-operate hand-wash station from Satellite Industries has a sealed water tank to ensure proper
hygiene. It includes two stations with fingertip-to-elbow
washing, and operates with a hands-free, baby foot pump.
It includes freshwater and graywater drain plugs and an
additional pumpout port on the base for wastewater. To
aid drivers, all plugs are tethered to the unit to prevent
loss or damage. It has two handles for lifting and fits easily inside most portables for ease of transporting. It has a
sealed freshwater tank where chlorine can be added to
kill bacteria. Blue areas have a fleck pattern to hide scuffs
and scratches. For added protection and simplicity of care,
the top, middle and bottom gray sections are extended to provide a natural
bumper. The middle gray wash basin section is replaceable. 800/883-1123;
www.satelliteindustries.com.

T.S.F. COMPANY TUFF-JON


90-GALLON FREESTANDING SINK
The Tuff-Jon 90-gallon freestanding sink
with trash container from T.S.F. Company
provides two wash stations; hands-free,
foot-operated pumps; towel dispenser; and
10-cup-capacity soap dispenser. A sinklifting bracket allows for easy positioning
in high-rise applications. The sink-lifting
bracket has a 1/4-inch wire cable, weighs
30 pounds and is safety orange. The unit
is constructed from easy-to-clean polyethylene, with 45-gallon waste and
freshwater capacities, a towel dispenser, trash container, protective skid
plate and freshwater drain plug. The unit weighs 85 pounds. 800/843-9286;
www.tuff-jon.com.

TM

May 2013
www.promonthly.com

FILE

PORTABLE RESTROOM OPERATOR

COVER STORY

TM
TM

FILE

February
2013
May 2013
www.promonthly.com
www.promonthly.com

MOJO

At the oregon Jamboree


music festival, the crew
at Bucks Sanitary Service
provides service that sings
BY BettY dAGeFoRde

An estate manager for a country star in


Nashville saw the potential for restroom
trailer service and dialed in to land exclusive
outdoor events. By PaTrICK dUrKIn

Taking
a Bow
Nashvilles Brandon
McNeely brings special
events expertise to country
stars, backyard parties
Page 10

hen Brandon McNeely graduated college about


eight years ago, he couldnt see himself working in
an office-cubicle environment, even though he had
just earned a bachelors degree in finance and economics.
Soon after, McNeely began working as an estate manager
for country music star Ronnie Dunn, of Brooks & Dunn
fame, a job that requires regular 10-hour days overseeing the
performers 17-acre residence and 250-acre farm. As his work
duties bounced him back and forth between the properties,
McNeely learned he enjoys the energy and excitement
surrounding fundraisers and other big events that drew large,
well-dressed crowds to Dunns properties.
McNeely figured there must be a way for a businessman
with entrepreneurial instincts to become a regular part of that
excitement. He sifted through various ideas, but when nothing
took root, he returned to college about three years ago to get a
masters degree in finance and economics.

the crew at Bucks Sanitary


provides service that sings
for oregon Music Festival

Music City

MOJO
Page 10

2013 EXPO SHOW ISSUE

February 25 - 28, 2013, Indiana Convention Center

Results

cleanliness means success for


North carolinas teS Group
Page 18
Cleanliness
is critical for PROs who serve
California farm operations Page 18

about a specialty restroom service company in an online news story. The


concept of renting posh privies for business, family or formal affairs might
offer everything he desired: independence, flexible hours, fun and exciting
events, a service that wont fade away, and weekend work that allows him to
keep the day job he loves.
Still, McNeely knew better than to jump
>>> Brandon McNeely
into a business before studying and analyzing
set up shop at home for his
the idea further. His analysis of the Nashville
boutique restroom service,
areas ability to support a boutique, high-end
PoshPrivy. He operates
portable restrooms company led him to Atlanta.
the business with his wife,
He spent a day there with the owner of an Kristeen, in Nashville.

to pick up toilets if theyre


all in one spot. I probably
spent a little bit extra labor,

Pricing
options
The very
day we found out wed have to move our shop, somebody
In addition
thedoor
trailers,
two price
packages.
came
throughtothe
andPoshPrivy
said, Dooffers
you want
to buy
Bucks The
back? It
waspackage
really a door
door
opening,
allFor
in the
same day.
They
quickly
basic
is justclosing,
the trailer
with
toiletries.
an additional
cost,
Mcjumped
at thea chance.
Neely
provides
signature package, which includes flowers, fresh mints,
LED candles,
and a personalized
chalkboard
message.
Todayindoor-outdoor
their businessrugs
is exclusively
portable
restrooms,
serving the
He100-mile-wide
also sets out amenity
baskets.
When
yourgot
niche
is 1,500
special
events,Industries
you
Willamette
Valley.
Theyve
about
Satellite
must
cater
to high
expectations
and meet
says.
units
gray
Tufways
and Maxims
(andthem,
a few he
white
ones for weddings, and
green units for their University of Oregon tailgating; quack shacks, they call
them
after
the Oregon Ducks mascot), several ADA-compliant Freedoms
Show
it off
andMcNeely
wheelchair-accessible
uses PoshPrivysLiberties
website
to an
giveAmeri-Can
customersEngineering
a virtual tourCrowd
restroom
trailer,
two is
smaller
Comfort
trailers
of Pleaser
his restroom
trailers.
Ourand
website
clean and
easy Station
to navigate.
We from
Advanced
Containment
percent
of their
work is
describe
our features
under Systems,
Products Inc.
and About
Pricing50
and
show them
in our
specialOur
events,
including,
2012,
the U.S. Olympic
track-and-field
trials.
Gallery.
trailers
offer so in
many
advantages,
and pictures
tell that story.
People look at photos of our trailers and say, Ive got to have that. Once we
rollMaking
in and set connections
them up, they walk into something special.
The Welds live in Sweet Home so theyve always had the hometown
Plush interiors
advantage for the Jamboree and Bucks has done it since its beginning in
If anyone still has doubts about portable restroom luxury after study1996. They feel confident theyll retain the work as long as they provide good
ingservice
the online
photos, McNeely offers guided tours of the trailers and their
and a reasonable price.

luxurious interiors at his storage site. Some customers just need to see
things in person to be convinced, and I have no problem with that, he
the
Main
event
says.
But
that doesnt
happen too often. When it does, though, it allows
McNeely
discuss
upgrades
clientscame
inspect
trailers.
In tothe
early possible
90s, when
Sweetas
Home
up the
with
an idea to help

fund civic projects, this little town asked a big star to perform at their first

have to send somebody


with a map to go to this
campground,
these six,
I want
to be part get
of my
clients
Im
genuinely
go toevent
another
campground,
interested in being part of
get these
eight.
a great
wedding,
reunion or
whatever.
When you deal with
Scott Weld
brides and brides mothers, they
want the best. This is not just a
business proposition for them.
Brandon Mcneely
<<< The Bucks team includes, from

upscale
sanitation
company,
left, portable
Milah Weld,
Susie Sieg,
Josh and
Wooley,
Sten Weld,
and idea
the trip
reinforced
thatScott
his Weld
business
Eric Brownrigg.
was solid.
In January 2012, McNeely and his
^^^ As part of PoshPrivys
wife, Kristeen, put his plan into action. He
Signature Service, Brandon
McNeely
flowers
and Surprisingly,
a
takes
a conservative
approach
countryplaces
music
festival.
Wynonna
Judd said
yes and to
thebuilding
festival
personalized
chalkboard
message
PoshPrivy.
business
is a baby
right
has attracted
top talent
ever since.
In 2012, This
the 9,000
residents
welcomed
of congratulations in his Comforts
40,000 visitors August 3-5, most ofnow,
whom
camped
out. to
Judd
to help
and
we want
paywas
forback
everything
of Home trailer.
celebrate the Jamborees 20th anniversary,
with Rascal
Flatts,
Dierks
as we go,along
he says.
I dont
believe
in
Bentley, the Charlie Daniels Band,
and enough
for 22
shows
assuming
debt.performers
Ill get where
I want
to on
go
two
stages.
Other
attractions
included
beer
and
wine
by
adding
one
or two
trailers at
a time as
I can
pay
for gardens,
them. merchandise
booths
and a kids
zone.
is held
in a no-facilities,
McNeely
bought
hisThe
firstevent
restroom
trailer
in early 201220-acre
from a park-like
portable
setting near
the edge
of the picturesque
town.
restroom
company
in Michigan
that was shedding
some inventory. This 6-by8-foot restroom trailer which he calls The Petite includes a 300-gallon
internal
waste
tank and a 125-gallon onboard freshwater tank. McNeely
By the
nuMBers
brought
the two-stall 2010 Comforts of Home trailer back to Nashville, and
The company brought in 265 units (20 Maxims, 10 Freedoms, 20
then
remodeled
it. It was
our first
sounit,
I wanted
to make
sure
it had a
Liberties,
one Standing
Room
Onlyunit,
urinal
and the
balance
Tufways),
modern,
upscaletrailers,
look and
feel,
McNeely says.
three restroom
and
73 hand-wash
stations (half Satellite Industries
Hefrom
started
makeover
by removing
thePolyPortables,
units free-standing
pedestal
Waves
thethe
companys
inventory,
the rest
Inc. Tag
Alongs
sink,
replacing
vinyl for hardwood-style flooring, then installing designer
rented
from a colleague).
lighting,
floating
vanities
and automatic
touchless faucets.
he
Some
115 units,
including
five handicap-accessible,
wereTo
setfinish,
up at the
repainted
the
interior
anstops,
up-to-date
color scheme.
main venue
a few with
at bus
the hospitality
center, and parking lots,
he bought
new 2012
three-stall
Pal hand-wash
restroom trailer
fromwere
Rich
but Next
the bulk
in largea banks,
along
with sixPorta
to eight
stations,
Specialty
13- foot
trailer
which
he calls
The
Polished
placed atTrailers.
the fourThe
corners
of restroom
the facility.
Thecrew
placed
the
ACSI
trailers
near
has athe
400-gallon
waste tank
105-gallon freshwater
tank.
stage forinternal
the performers
andand
theaAmeri-Can
Engineering
trailer in
In fall
2012, McNeely
Plush,
anunit.
Alpha Mobile Solutions
the food
court/beer
garden,added
along The
with the
urinal
Signature
featuring
two private
womens
rooms and
one banks
room
ThirtySeries
units 3and
six hand-wash
stations
were arranged
in two
for
It comes
withvenue.
a 500-gallon
tankwas
andtaken
125-gallon
at amen.
smaller,
adjacent
The restinternal
of the waste
inventory
to 23
freshwater
tank.Thirteen
Each restroom
features
including
vessel sinks,
campgrounds.
units were
rentedamenities
to individual
campsites.

Eight times, Sunday through Wednesday, a caravan of three trailers


made the hour-long drive up Interstate 5 from the companys yard to the
Jamboree site to deliver units. Two of their 15-year-old company-built
trailers held 16 units each and a third trailer carried 20 (also company-built,
using an Explorer receiver from McKee Technologies, Inc.). The company
used service vehicles to pull the trailers.
Weld tried a new approach for the removal process. Sunday night
and continuing Monday, the team pumped and moved all units to a single
staging area, which he felt simplified the job. Its easier to send a driver to
pick up toilets if theyre all in one spot, he explains. I probably spent a little
bit extra labor, but at least you dont have to send somebody with a map to
go to this campground, get these six, go to another campground, get these
eight. Then you start leaving sinks behind and the (handicap unit) doesnt
fit. Its just a logistics nightmare trying to get the loads to work out. During
the week, they grabbed units as schedules permitted.

McNeely runs a power cord to his Porta Pal unit from


^^^
keepin
itMusic
cLean
Rich
Restrooms.
City customers organizing backyard
weddings
and special
events want
a lot of amenities
when
Jamboree
organizers
required
someone
be on site and available by
shopping
units.
radio at for
all portable
times sosanitation
Weld, his
son and another member of the team stayed in
a motor home at one of the campgrounds.
floating
vanities,
Corian
countertops,
Venue
units were
serviced
each night stereo,
from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. At 6:30
ceramic
andinflatscreen
TVs.
a.m. theyfloors
started
on the campground
units, finishing around 9:30 a.m.
Rounding
hispumped
inventory
The
During
the day,out
they
outis 20
RVsPremiere
and 19 holding tanks 10 at the
trailer,
another
upscale
unit
by Rich
Specialty
Trailers, which McNeely
two shower
facilities
and
themade
balance
for the
food vendors.
subleases
a partnership
Portable
Restrooms
Charlotte,
Five through
service vehicles
werewith
used:
A 2010
Peterbilt LLC.
335 in
and
a 2008
N.C.
This large4300,
two-suite
which
has a 600-gallon
waste tank
International
bothtrailer
built out
by Progress
Vactruckinternal
with 1,500-gallon
and
200-gallon freshwater
tankaluminum
includes atanks;
working
as well
hot
waste/500-gallon
freshwater
a fireplace,
2001 Isuzu
FTRasfrom
water,
solid marble
andSales
granite
countertops,
designer
vanities,
and heating
Workmate/FMI
Truck
& Service
with an
850-gallon
waste/350-gallon
and
air conditioning
forand
full two
climate
freshwater
steel tank;
2000control.
International 4700s built out by Lely
Manufacturing Inc. with 750-gallon waste/350-gallon freshwater steel tanks.
TARGETING
CUSTOMERS
All have Masport
pumps.
When McNeely was assembling his inventory, he contacting his target
Waste was transported to the companys yard each night and transferred
markets to alert them to his fledgling business. He services the Nashville
to a 20,000-gallon tank. From there, another pumping contractor picked up
area and roughly 100 miles in all directions in middle Tennessee, going after
the waste and disposed of it by land application.
weddings, festivals, large reunions, corporate fundraisers and other events.
saMe But different

If people cant find you quickly with Google, you dont exist.
In one sense, Weld was an old pro at this event, so it was pretty much
And
once they find you, your website must instantly project
business as usual, he says. On the other hand, the size and scope had
your
brand
and what
youre
all about.
have
to sayin 60
changed
significantly
over
the years
their You
first dont
year, they
brought
units forbut
oneyou
venue
andtofour
That was the most difficult
much,
have
saycampgrounds.
it right.
thing for me, he says. So I had to get my act together. He quickly got his
Brandon
Mcneely
arms around
it. Youve got to just scratch your head and kick it in gear and
go. We didnt stop moving all weekend.
McNeely puts himself at the center of the business as the contact person
and chief problem-solver. He handles all email communication, and every
call placed to PoshPrivy routes to his personal phone.
I want to be part of my clients event, he says. I take time to make
them feel comfortable with me, and assure them Im genuinely interested
in being part of a great wedding, reunion or whatever. When you deal with
brides and brides mothers, they want the best. This is not just a business
proposition for them.
McNeely believes PoshPrivys website and targeted email campaigns
play key roles in establishing and building the companys unique brand. His
maxim is Redefining the portable restroom experience. That starts with
a clean, simple website that projects PoshPrivys upscale niche. He also
works hard to ensure the company pops up prominently when people search
for upscale portable restrooms on Google or other Internet search engines.

the teaM
Lisa and Scott Weld, owners of Bucks
Sanitary Service in Eugene, Ore., have a
sta of 10 an office worker, yard worker,
part-time mechanic and seven drivers.
Lisa works in the office answering phones
and managing the creative and marketing
side while Scott fills in on everything
from management to running routes to
maintenance. Five people worked on the
Oregon Jamboree along with the Welds
and their three children, Maren, 9; Milah,
13; and Sten, 17; who are accustomed to
helping out at events.

coMpany history

Lets roLL

Its easier to send a driver

but at least you dont

Tips for Bringing


the Wow Factor
Brandon McNeely wants people to be talking
about PoshPrivys restroom trailers the minute they
walk out the door, no matter who they are and what
the event. After all, people wearing wedding gowns,
tuxedos and fine footwear expect five-star restroom
accommodations.
Using a portable restroom doesnt have to be
a cringe-worthy deal, McNeely says. Were a boutique business. Our restroom trailers are unique and
designed specifically for special events. We try to really wow people. They cant believe how nice our
trailers are. Most people have never seen anything
like them.
Here are some of the ways McNeely markets to
VIP customers:

parties. So he started PoshPrivy,


where this compact Comforts of Home
restroom trailer is a popular offering.
(Photos by Patrick Durkin)

In April 2012, Lisa and Scott Weld


bought Bucks for the second time. Their
first crack at it was in 1995 when Scotts
father heard the 20-year-old business was
having problems. The family made an oer
to the founder and operated it for four
years as an add-on to their trash and septic
service business. In 1999, when Welds
father retired, they sold it to a national
solid waste company. Weld went to work
for that company, then 10 years later tried
his hand again at self-employment in the
trash business. A few challenges cropped
up, but they turned out to be fortuitous,
says Lisa Weld.

Owners: Brandon and Kristeen McNeely


Tennessee
Employees: 2
Service area: 100-mile radius of Nashville, Tenn.
Specialty: Upscale portable sanitation for weddings and special events
Affiliations: Portable Sanitation Association International, National
Association of Catering and Events, Tennessee Wedding and Events
Specialists Association
Website: www.poshprivy.com

Producing
Glove Test

<<< Susie Sieg, of Bucks Sanitary Service,


unloads
a Satellite
Industries
Working
for singer
Ronnie Maxim
Dunn, 3000
restroom
at the recognized
Oregon Jamboree.
Brandon
McNeely
a need
(Photos by
Peter Krupp)
for portable sanitation
at upscale

Scott Weld

(continued)

PoshPrivy Nashville, Tenn.

The White

tHe JoB: Oregon Jamboree


locAtIoN: Sweet Home, Ore.
tHe PRo: Bucks Sanitary Service

The very day we found out wed


have to move our shop, somebody
came through the door and said,
Do you want to buy Bucks back?
It was really a door closing, door
opening, all in the same day.

RESEARCHING THE MARKET


A few months after earning his masters degree in
May 2011, McNeely stumbled onto his niche while reading

Entertainment: Just an Ole Boy Page 16 | Expo Eats: 10 to Try Page 38 | Attractions: Tip a Frosty Mug Page 30

(continued)

OUTDOOR EVENTS
If people cant find you quickly with Google, you dont exist, McNeely
says. And once they find you, your website must instantly project your
brand and what youre all about. You dont have to say much, but you have
to say it right.
That doesnt mean McNeely just flipped a switch and waited for
business to build. He also networks with job-related companies to spread
his message by word-of-mouth.
I started going around to party-tent rental companies because our
business is mostly geared toward outdoor
events, McNeely says. Probably 70 percent
of our business (has been) from their
referrals.
At the same time, he targeted event
planners to raise awareness of PoshPrivy.
For that, targeted emails generate results.
I spent a couple of days compiling an
email list of every event planner I could find
around Nashville and middle Tennessee,
McNeely says. I use a service called
are lined
up and
ready
to design
go before
the
^^^ Satellite Industries Tufway restrooms
MailChimp,
which
helps
me
letters
Oregon Jamboree, complete with lighting
strung
the front who
of themight
units.need my
to target
eventinplanners
restroom trailers. MailChimp works much
better than traditional mail. Event planners
need to think of you when giving portable
^^^ McNeely adjusts the
restroom options to their clients.
wastewater outlet valve on one
of his restroom trailers.
Finally, McNeely who doesnt own
a vacuum truck partners with a local
company to pump out the trailers before hauling them home from the event
site. Most of the events we service last a half-day or so, which means we
usually dont have to pump them until theyre ready to be removed, he
explains. Its less trouble for everyone if we get them pumped on the job
site right after the event.
SELL YOURSELF
All the while, McNeely builds business through face-to-face contact.
Once were in touch with companies that can help us, I try to meet with the
owners and essentially sell myself and our product to them, he said.
Part of selling himself means being an expert in the field. Before
launching his venture, McNeely joined the Portable Sanitation Association
International and attended its annual convention and trade show in 2011. While
there, he attended seminars and talked with experts to broaden his knowledge.
helpshe
outjoined
her fathers
crew, keeping
restrooms
and hand-wash
MoreWeld
recently,
the National
Association
of Catering
and Events
^^^ Milah
stations
with
soapevents
and paper
theservice
Oregonthem.
Jamboree,
includto
learn stocked
all he can
about
andproducts
how bestatto
He also
plans
ingjoin
these
Wave
sinks from
Satelliteand
Industries.
to
the
Tennessee
Wedding
Events Specialists Association this year.
The more I can network with experts in those areas people who also need
my trailers the more Ill learn, and the more ideas and referrals Ill get.
Meanwhile,
MORE
INFO he provides personal touches to complement his restroom
trailers. That includes mints, amenity baskets, flower bouquets in the
Advanced
Containment
Progress
Inc. message for the
womens
side
of the trailers,Masport,
a personal
brideVactruck
and groom on
Systems, Inc.
800/467-5600
800/228-4510
a chalkboard,
that illuminate the path to
the trailers after dark.
800/927-2271 and tiki lightswww.masportpump.com
www.progressvactruck.com
www.acsi-us.com
After all, the more McNeely does to make his portable restrooms
Industries
Technologies
pleasing, and perhaps evenMcKee
memorable,
the -greaterSatellite
the chance
hell never
Ameri-Can
Explorer
Trailers
have
to workEngineering
from the confines
of an
office cubicle. 800/328-3332
574/892-5151
www.ameri-can.com

MORE INFO

Music City

oN locAtIoN

COVER STORY

Taking

a Bow
Music City

PORTABLE RESTROOM
RESTROOM OPERATOR
OPERATOR
PORTABLE

866/457-5425
www.mckeetechnologies.com

POSTERS
Starting At

35

ELECTRONIC
REPRINTS
Starting At

25

(See ad page 27)

(See ad page 33)

Reprinted with permission from PRO / February 2013 / 2013, COLE Publishing Inc., P.O. Box 220, Three Lakes, WI 54562 / 800-257-7222 / www.promonthly.com

Portable Restroom Operator

Starting At

10

Page 10

Music City

MOJO

Order through
our website

Working for singer Ronnie Dunn,


Brandon McNeely recognized a need
for portable sanitation at upscale
parties. So he started PoshPrivy,
where this compact Comforts of Home
restroom trailer is a popular offering.
(Photos by Patrick Durkin)

MOJO
An estate manager for a country star in
Nashville saw the potential for restroom
trailer service and dialed in to land exclusive
outdoor events. By PaTrICK dUrKIn

hen Brandon McNeely graduated college about


eight years ago, he couldnt see himself working in
an office-cubicle environment, even though he had
just earned a bachelors degree in finance and economics.
Soon after, McNeely began working as an estate manager
for country music star Ronnie Dunn, of Brooks & Dunn
fame, a job that requires regular 10-hour days overseeing the
performers 17-acre residence and 250-acre farm. As his work
duties bounced him back and forth between the properties,
McNeely learned he enjoys the energy and excitement
surrounding fundraisers and other big events that drew large,
well-dressed crowds to Dunns properties.
McNeely figured there must be a way for a businessman
with entrepreneurial instincts to become a regular part of that
excitement. He sifted through various ideas, but when nothing
took root, he returned to college about three years ago to get a
masters degree in finance and economics.
RESEARCHING THE MARKET
A few months after earning his masters degree in
May 2011, McNeely stumbled onto his niche while reading

Producing

Results

Cleanliness is critical for PROs who serve


PoshPrivy
Nashville, Tenn.
California
farm operations
Page 18

(continued)

Owners: Brandon and Kristeen McNeely


Tennessee
Employees: 2
Service area: 100-mile radius of Nashville, Tenn.
Specialty: Upscale portable sanitation for weddings and special events
Affiliations: Portable Sanitation Association International, National
Association of Catering and Events, Tennessee Wedding and Events
Specialists Association
Website: www.poshprivy.com

about a specialty restroom service company in an online news story. The


concept of renting posh privies for business, family or formal affairs might
offer everything he desired: independence, flexible hours, fun and exciting
events, a service that wont fade away, and weekend work that allows him to
keep the day job he loves.
Still, McNeely knew better than to jump
>>> Brandon McNeely
into a business before studying and analyzing
set up shop at home for his
the idea further. His analysis of the Nashville
boutique restroom service,
areas ability to support a boutique, high-end
PoshPrivy. He operates
portable restrooms company led him to Atlanta.
the business with his wife,
He spent a day there with the owner of an Kristeen, in Nashville.

Tips for Bringing


the Wow Factor
Brandon McNeely wants people to be talking
about PoshPrivys restroom trailers the minute they
walk out the door, no matter who they are and what
the event. After all, people wearing wedding gowns,
tuxedos and fine footwear expect five-star restroom
accommodations.
Using a portable restroom doesnt have to be
a cringe-worthy deal, McNeely says. Were a boutique business. Our restroom trailers are unique and
designed specifically for special events. We try to really wow people. They cant believe how nice our
trailers are. Most people have never seen anything
like them.
Here are some of the ways McNeely markets to
VIP customers:
Pricing options
In addition to the trailers, PoshPrivy offers two price packages. The
basic package is just the trailer with toiletries. For an additional cost, McNeely provides a signature package, which includes flowers, fresh mints,
LED candles, indoor-outdoor rugs and a personalized chalkboard message.
He also sets out amenity baskets. When your niche is special events, you
must cater to high expectations and meet them, he says.
Show it off
McNeely uses PoshPrivys website to give customers a virtual tour
of his restroom trailers. Our website is clean and easy to navigate. We
describe our features under Products and Pricing and show them in our
Gallery. Our trailers offer so many advantages, and pictures tell that story.
People look at photos of our trailers and say, Ive got to have that. Once we
roll in and set them up, they walk into something special.
Plush interiors
If anyone still has doubts about portable restroom luxury after studying the online photos, McNeely offers guided tours of the trailers and their
luxurious interiors at his storage site. Some customers just need to see
things in person to be convinced, and I have no problem with that, he
says. But that doesnt happen too often. When it does, though, it allows
McNeely to discuss possible upgrades as clients inspect the trailers.

www.satelliteindustries.com

(See ad page 46)

Alpha
Solutions Inc.
Comforts of Home Services Inc. Rich
Specialty Trailers
Lely Mobile
Manufacturing,
Workmate/FMI
Truck
877/789-1213
260/593-2279
630/906-8002
800/334-2763
Sales & Service
PolyPortables, Inc.
www.richrestrooms.com
www.cohsi.com
www.alphamobilesolutions.com
www.lelyus.com
800/927-8750
800/241-7951
(See
ad page 19)
www.fmitrucks.com
www.polyportables.com

(continued)

(continued)

Sizes: 24" x 30" & 36" x 45"

LASER
REPRINTS

Nashvilles Brandon
McNeely brings special
events expertise to country
stars, backyard parties

I want to be part of my
clients event Im genuinely
interested in being part of
a great wedding, reunion or
whatever. When you deal with
brides and brides mothers, they
want the best. This is not just a
business proposition for them.
Porta Pal Mcneely
unit from
^^^ McNeely runs a power cord to his
Brandon
Rich Restrooms. Music City customers organizing backyard
weddings and special events want a lot of amenities when
shopping for portable sanitation units.upscale portable sanitation company, and
the trip reinforced that his business idea
was solid.
floating vanities, Corian countertops, stereo,
In January 2012, McNeely and his
As part offloors
PoshPrivys
^^^ceramic
and flatscreen TVs.
wife, Kristeen, put his plan into action. He
Signature Rounding
Service, Brandon
out his inventory is The Premiere
McNeely places flowers and a
takes a conservative approach to building
trailer, another
upscale
unit made by Rich Specialty Trailers, which McNeely
personalized
chalkboard
message
PoshPrivy. This business is a baby right
subleases through
a partnership with Portable Restrooms LLC. in Charlotte,
of congratulations
in his Comforts
andhas
wea 600-gallon
want to pay
for everything
N.C.trailer.
This large two-suite trailernow,
which
internal
waste tank
of Home
we go, ahe
says. fireplace,
I dont as
believe
and 200-gallon freshwater tankas
includes
working
well asin
hot
debt.
Ill get where
I want
to go
water, solid marble and graniteassuming
countertops,
designer
vanities,
and heating
by adding
or two trailers
at climate
a time as
I can pay for them.
and airone
conditioning
for full
control.
McNeely bought his first restroom trailer in early 2012 from a portable
restroom
companyCUSTOMERS
in Michigan that was shedding some inventory. This 6-byTARGETING
8-foot restroom
trailer was
which
he calls The
Petite includes
a 300-gallon
When McNeely
assembling
his inventory,
he contacting
his target
internal
waste
tank them
and ato125-gallon
onboard
freshwater
tank.
markets
to alert
his fledgling
business.
He services
theMcNeely
Nashville
brought
the two-stall
2010
Comforts
of Homein
trailer
back
to Nashville,
area and
roughly 100
miles
in all directions
middle
Tennessee,
goingand
after
thenweddings,
remodeled
it. It was
first unit,
so I wanted
to make
it events.
had a
festivals,
largeour
reunions,
corporate
fundraisers
andsure
other
modern, upscale look and feel, McNeely says.
He started the makeover by removing the units free-standing pedestal
If
people cant find you quickly with Google, you dont exist.
sink, replacing vinyl for hardwood-style flooring, then installing designer
And once
they
find you,
your website
mustfaucets.
instantly
lighting,
floating
vanities
and automatic
touchless
To project
finish, he
your brand
and with
whatanyoure
all about.
You dont have to say
repainted
the interior
up-to-date
color scheme.
Next hebut
bought
new 2012
three-stall
Porta Pal restroom trailer from Rich
much,
youahave
to say
it right.
Specialty Trailers. The 13- foot restroom trailer which he calls The Polished
Brandon
Mcneely
has
a 400-gallon
internal waste tank and a 105-gallon freshwater tank.
In fall 2012, McNeely added The Plush, an Alpha Mobile Solutions
McNeely
himself at
theprivate
center of
the business
as the
contact
person
Signature
Series puts
3 featuring
two
womens
rooms
and
one room
problem-solver.
He handles
all email
communication,
and every
for and
men.chief
It comes
with a 500-gallon
internal
waste
tank and 125-gallon
call placed
to PoshPrivy
routesfeatures
to his personal
phone.
freshwater
tank.
Each restroom
amenities
including vessel sinks,
I want to be part of my clients event, he says. I take time to make
(continued)
them feel comfortable with me, and assure them Im genuinely interested
in being part of a great wedding, reunion or whatever. When you deal with
brides and brides mothers, they want the best. This is not just a business
proposition for them.
McNeely believes PoshPrivys website and targeted email campaigns
play key roles in establishing and building the companys unique brand. His
maxim is Redefining the portable restroom experience. That starts with
a clean, simple website that projects PoshPrivys upscale niche. He also
works hard to ensure the company pops up prominently when people search
for upscale portable restrooms on Google or other Internet search engines.

OUTDOOR EVENTS
If people cant find you quickly with Google, you dont exist, McNeely
says. And once they find you, your website must instantly project your
brand and what youre all about. You dont have to say much, but you have
to say it right.
That doesnt mean McNeely just flipped a switch and waited for
business to build. He also networks with job-related companies to spread
his message by word-of-mouth.
I started going around to party-tent rental companies because our
business is mostly geared toward outdoor
events, McNeely says. Probably 70 percent
of our business (has been) from their
referrals.
At the same time, he targeted event
planners to raise awareness of PoshPrivy.
For that, targeted emails generate results.
I spent a couple of days compiling an
email list of every event planner I could find
around Nashville and middle Tennessee,
McNeely says. I use a service called
MailChimp, which helps me design letters
to target event planners who might need my
restroom trailers. MailChimp works much
better than traditional mail. Event planners
need to think of you when giving portable
^^^ McNeely adjusts the
restroom options to their clients.
wastewater outlet valve on one
of his restroom trailers.
Finally, McNeely who doesnt own
a vacuum truck partners with a local
company to pump out the trailers before hauling them home from the event
site. Most of the events we service last a half-day or so, which means we
usually dont have to pump them until theyre ready to be removed, he
explains. Its less trouble for everyone if we get them pumped on the job
site right after the event.
SELL YOURSELF
All the while, McNeely builds business through face-to-face contact.
Once were in touch with companies that can help us, I try to meet with the
owners and essentially sell myself and our product to them, he said.
Part of selling himself means being an expert in the field. Before
launching his venture, McNeely joined the Portable Sanitation Association
International and attended its annual convention and trade show in 2011. While
there, he attended seminars and talked with experts to broaden his knowledge.
More recently, he joined the National Association of Catering and Events
to learn all he can about events and how best to service them. He also plans
to join the Tennessee Wedding and Events Specialists Association this year.
The more I can network with experts in those areas people who also need
my trailers the more Ill learn, and the more ideas and referrals Ill get.
Meanwhile, he provides personal touches to complement his restroom
trailers. That includes mints, amenity baskets, flower bouquets in the
womens side of the trailers, a personal message for the bride and groom on
a chalkboard, and tiki lights that illuminate the path to the trailers after dark.
After all, the more McNeely does to make his portable restrooms
pleasing, and perhaps even memorable, the greater the chance hell never
have to work from the confines of an office cubicle.

MORE INFO
Alpha Mobile Solutions
Comforts of Home Services Inc. Rich Specialty Trailers
877/789-1213
260/593-2279
630/906-8002
www.richrestrooms.com
www.alphamobilesolutions.com www.cohsi.com
(See ad page 19)

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August 2016

45

CLASSIFIEDS

August 2016

MARKETPLACE
ADVERTISING

BUSINESSES
Portable toilet rentals in Berks County, PA, established 21+ years. Gross sales $130,000+.
Price $220,000. Employees: Owner/ Operator.
Excellent turn-key business opportunity that
has grown 30% in the last year, more than
100% in the last 15 years. Steady customer
base. Business includes all contracts, 150 portable toilets/sinks, 2 service/delivery trucks,
and an 8-unit delivery trailer. Owner can assist with training and transition if requested.
Vehicles, equipment, or customer list will not
be sold separately. Call Rick at 610-927-9114
or email itspottytime@comcast.net
(T08)

The Best Trailer


For All Of Your
Portable Toilet
Transport Needs

The

800-498-3000

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Works daily. Dale 708-878-4391
(T09)
(3) International 4300s for sale. 2002-2004
models. $6,000-$12,000. Primary use for
portable restroom services. For more information email aheflin@donsjohns.com (T08)
1999 Ford F550: 7.3 diesel, 5-speed manual,
well maintained. 500-gallon waste/400 fresh,
308,000 miles. Masport pump, 2-unit carrier.
One owner. $16,000. 336-625-6374 (T08)
2006 Ford F550 4x4: New 11 flatbed, new
950-gallon portable toilet slide-in tank 650/300. Conde SDS6, 9hp electric start
Honda. Bucket fill, 30 Tiger Tail. Ready to
work. $29,995. Denver, CO. 303-789-9440
Ask for Matt.
(PBM)

46

August 2016

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Fr e e S e r v i c e R e m i n d e r S o f t w a r e . c o m ,
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950 Gallon
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In Stock
Trailers Ship
o
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Read

25-year-old portable restroom business for


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11216

IN A SELF-SERVICE WORLD.
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