How to Choose a Commercial Snow Removal Service
In the Twin Cities, snow isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a major liability and operational hurdle for businesses. Just like choosing the right grass seed requires understanding our unique climate, choosing a commercial snow removal partner requires a strategy that goes beyond just "clearing the lot."
When the sub-zero temperatures hit and the North Star State delivers a foot of heavy snow, you need a partner who treats your property with precision. Here is how to choose a commercial snow removal partner that will keep your business safe and accessible all winter long2.
Response Time & Communication
In commercial snow removal, timing is everything. If your employees arrive at 7:00 AM and the lot isn't cleared, you’ve already lost money.
The Standard: Ask potential contractors about their "trigger" times. Do they start plowing as soon as the snow hits a certain depth, or do they wait for the storm to end?
Communication: Does the company provide real-time updates? A quality service will have a dispatch system or a point of contact who can tell you exactly when your property is next on the route.
Understanding Service Thresholds
Not every business has the same needs. You need to define your snow removal threshold—the amount of accumulation that triggers a visit.
Zero-Tolerance: Essential for hospitals, retail centers, or 24-hour facilities where the pavement must remain clear at all times.
1-Inch or 2-Inch Triggers: The most common standard for general office buildings and industrial parks. Ensure these thresholds are clearly defined in your contract to avoid "gray areas" during light dustings.
Attention to Detail: Beyond the Plow
A "one-size-fits-all" approach leads to icy patches and damaged curbs. A premium service uses the right tool for the right job:
Plows: For the main expanse of the parking lot.
Blowers & Shoveling: Critical for sidewalks, entryways, and tight corners where a truck can’t reach3.
Ice Management: High-traffic entryways often require treated salt that works at lower temperatures to ensure pedestrian safety. Learn more about local salt usage guidelines from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Piling vs. Hauling Capabilities
In Minnesota, we don't just get one storm; we get a season’s worth of accumulation. Where that snow goes is just as important as how it's moved.
Piling (On-Site Storage): Does the company have the equipment (like front-end loaders) to stack snow high and tight? Poorly placed piles can block sightlines for drivers.
Hauling (Off-Site Removal): If your lot is small or the winter is particularly brutal, your "snow graveyard" will eventually fill up. Ensure your contractor has the heavy machinery and dump trucks required to physically haul snow off-site4.
Pricing Models & Budgeting
Commercial contracts generally fall into three categories. Choose the one that fits your risk tolerance:
Per-Event: You pay every time the plow drops.
Seasonal (Fixed Rate): A flat monthly fee regardless of how much it snows. This provides budget predictability.
Time & Materials: Usually reserved for specialized tasks or extremely large industrial sites.
Professional Considerations
Insurance & Liability: Never hire a "guy with a truck." Ensure the company carries high-limit commercial general liability insurance specifically for snow removal to protect you from slip-and-fall claims.
Pre-Season Site Mapping: A professional crew will visit your site in the fall to mark curbs, fire hydrants, and drains with stakes.
The Bottom Line
you set the stage for a green space that will look great and withstand our challenging climate.
Whether you’re starting from scratch with a new installation or looking to improve your existing turf, the right expertise can save you time, money, and frustration. If you’re ready to achieve the lawn of your dreams without the guesswork, the team at Monson Lawn and Landscape is here to help.
Contact us today for a free quote and let our team of experienced professionals bring year-round excellence to your property!