Dealer Round Up – Innovations for Reduced Labor

The snow removal industry faces constant pressure to increase efficiency and reduce labor costs, especially with today’s labor shortages. Contractors are always searching for innovative equipment and strategies to minimize the number of workers needed while still maintaining top-notch service. Here are some of the latest trends and technologies that experts in the field are turning to for reducing labor in snow removal operations.

October 13, 2024 | Staff Editor

UTVs and Sidewalk Solutions

With labor shortages hitting hard, one of the biggest challenges contractors face is clearing sidewalks efficiently. Gene Stork from Storks Plows noted the rise in popularity of UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles) for both the residential and commercial markets. “UTVs have picked up in recent years,” Stork explained. “You can outfit them with a small spreader in the bed and a V-plow on the front, making them perfect for clearing sidewalks efficiently.” He also highlighted expandable plows like the Western Wideout and Fisher XLS as key players in cutting down plow time. “These plows can carry 30 percent more snow, which reduces the number of trucks needed.”

Cab Comfort = Happy Workers

Labor shortages aren’t just about finding employees—it’s about keeping them comfortable and willing to work in extreme conditions. Jerre Heyer from Jerre’s Service emphasized the importance of UTVs in this regard: “It’s hard to get someone to clear sidewalks in 10 degrees below zero with the wind blowing, but put them in a cab, and they’re happy to work.” With UTVs offering protection from the elements, workers are more productive, and job satisfaction increases.

Advanced Salt Spreaders and Brine Systems

Innovative salt spreaders and brine systems are also playing a huge role in reducing labor needs. Erik Flores from Push-N-Pull was excited to discuss a revolutionary new product from Finland called Hilltip. “It’s a modular-style salt spreader, but what’s really cool is that it has geofencing software,” Flores explained. “It automatically adjusts salt and brine distribution based on location and ground speed. This automation reduces the need for constant human oversight and ensures efficient material usage.”

Snow Raiders and Stand-On Units

For sidewalk snow removal, many contractors are turning to specialized equipment like Snow Raiders and stand-on units, which help eliminate the need for large crews. Greg Saltz from NESS Auto pointed out how these machines are replacing traditional manual labor. “They don’t call in sick, and they’re highly efficient,” Saltz remarked, adding that these units are becoming a staple for contractors dealing with large properties.

Walk-Behind Power Brooms and Push Shovels

While high-tech machines are making waves, simpler tools like walk-behind power brooms and push shovels are also seeing a resurgence in popularity. William Fries from Xtreme Fabrication shared that many contractors are using walk-behind power brooms and push snow shovels like the Snow Dozer for clearing sidewalks. “One of my customers has over a hundred of these for his sidewalk crews,” he said. Fries also emphasized the cost-effectiveness of using brine for sidewalk pre-treatment, reducing material usage and offering immediate results.

Embracing Efficiency for the Future

As labor remains hard to find, the future of snow removal is leaning heavily toward equipment that allows for maximum efficiency with fewer workers. From UTVs and Snow Raiders to cutting-edge brine systems, contractors are investing in technology that gets the job done faster and with fewer hands. For anyone still relying on manual labor-intensive processes, the message from the experts is clear: “If you haven’t upgraded yet, now is the time to consider it.”