Behind the Curtains of Snow Removal Planning and Kick-Off Process
Handling Minnesota’s unpredictable winters requires more than just being reactive. Our approach to the snow season centers around strategic planning, so we’re ready to face the worst conditions head-on. And because we know efficiency depends on planning and coordination, we use snow specific software to help our teams communicate, stay organized, and keep everyone updated as we go. Here’s a closer look at the how and the why, and some things we learned along the way.
The Role of Planning in the upper midwest
The frequent snowfalls, icy temperatures, and biting winds can quickly turn a peaceful property into a treacherous landscape. Our planning process ensures operations run smoothly, downtime is minimized, and properties stay safe no matter what storms bring. Everything—from site-specific analysis and custom service plans to real-time weather monitoring—is in place to make our response as effective as possible.
The Planning Process
Each season, we start with an assessment of each client’s property to map out specifics, especially important here in Minnesota. Our software supports this phase by giving our teams access to important property information and site maps on their mobile devices, so every detail is clear and accessible.
Site Assessments and Detailed Mapping
Before winter hits, we conduct full property assessments of each client site. Software such as Yeti or LMN helps us map high-traffic areas, snow storage zones, and note any site-specific details that might impact the flow of work. With everything mapped digitally, our crews know exactly where to prioritize and where snow can be safely stored, so they’re well-prepared to work effectively on every site. It’s time-consuming up front, but it makes things go smoothly once the snow starts falling.
Development of Customized Service Plans
Selecting the right equipment for each site is crucial. For plowing parking lots big and small, we choose to use various sizes of wheel loaders mated with the appropriate hydraulic wing plows such as Metal Pless plows, while tighter spaces and walkways are handled with mechanical sidewalk equipment such as Boss snowrator and snowrator Mag. Using a software to manage routing, our team members are assigned to specific properties in a specific order which minimizes relearning curves and improves efficiency. Our crews can also log details about conditions in the app, like snow amounts or temperature variations, for accurate site records. For de-icing, we use brine as a pre and post treatment to reduce salt use and manage icy surfaces sustainably and safely.
Equipment Readiness and Material Stockpiling
The backbone of effective snow response is having equipment ready to go. From loaders with hydraulic wing plows to sidewalk machines, each piece of equipment is inspected, repaired, and serviced ahead of time. Our service software allows us to track equipment readiness and update teams on stock levels for brine, so everyone knows we’re prepared for high-demand periods.
Real-Time Weather Monitoring and Response Planning
Forecasting is key to managing Minnesota’s winters. By monitoring weather in real time, we can coordinate with crews and assign resources based on each event’s specifics. Our software helps us adjust routes dynamically and keep crews informed of real-time conditions so we’re ready for both proactive and reactive responses.
Kicking Off the Season: Putting Plans into Action
When the snow season arrives, it’s time to put all that preparation into practice. Our kickoff process is about executing our plans in real-world conditions and using digital tools to stay connected and informed.
Crew Training and Communication
We start the season with team refreshers, reviewing site-specific instructions, safety protocols, and equipment handling, we call this our snow rodeo. Through our software, each crew has instant access to any new client updates, service requests, or site maps, so everyone’s on the same page. With strong communication channels, any issues or changes are addressed quickly, keeping everything moving smoothly.
Onsite Equipment and Materials Staging
For high-traffic sites, staging equipment onsite can be a game-changer. With pre-arranged snow storage and brine application points, we can start and end each job efficiently. Crews use our software to coordinate setup and stay updated on inventory needs, minimizing the chances of delays.
Handling the First Snow Event
The first significant snowfall is always a test of our preseason planning. With hydraulic wing plows and specialized sidewalk machines we get to see how well our service plans meet client needs. As crews log snow amounts, temperatures, and site-specific challenges in the software, we capture data that helps us improve performance. After this first event, we debrief with each team to assess any needed adjustments and fine-tune our approach for the rest of the season.
Staying Flexible: Adapting to Minnesota’s Weather
Minnesota’s weather doesn’t always follow a predictable pattern, so we stay ready to adjust our strategies as needed. The software helps us keep in touch with crews, update routes on the fly, and stay flexible.
Ongoing Client and Team Communication
Keeping clients updated on response timing and post-storm assessments aligns expectations. Our software helps manage these communications and keeps everyone, from clients to team, in sync. This open communication loop means any adjustments to our strategy or equipment needs are handled quickly.
Reviewing and Adapting Our Approach
After each storm, we analyze performance. Using feedback from crews, we identify any modifications to routes, resource allocations, or site-specific needs. These small adjustments keep our operations efficient and ensure we’re making the best use of time, equipment, and materials.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Minnesota winters can be unpredictable, and even the best planning can’t cover every contingency. We keep backup equipment and standby crews ready. With the right contingency plans, we’re ready to keep properties safe and usable, regardless of what winter gives.
Long story short
Commercial snow removal in Minnesota demands planning, preparation, and flexibility. Through site assessments, specialized equipment, and a responsive, well-informed team, we’re ready to manage the snow season’s challenges. And as each winter brings new insights, we continue to adapt, using technology to keep our teams connected and our operations streamlined. By staying committed to quality, we’re able to keep our clients’ properties safe and functional all winter long.
