Maximize Value and Ensure Spring Readiness

As the busy season winds down, it's time to assess your portable restroom inventory. Which units are still revenue generators? Which need repairs? Which have reached end-of-life? A strategic post-season inventory review protects your investment and sets you up for success next year.

Why Post-Season Inventory Matters

Peak season is behind you. Now's the time to:

• Identify repairs needed before units sit idle
• Prevent costly damage from winter storage
• Plan capital investments for next year
• Maximize the lifespan of good equipment
• Recycle or salvage value from worn-out units

Operators who skip this step often face disappointing surprises when equipment won't start in spring.

Step 1: Inspect All Units Systematically

Walk through your entire inventory and rate each unit:

Excellent (5+ Years of Life):
• Cosmetic condition good
• No major structural damage
• Mechanical systems functioning well
• Worth maintaining and deploying next season

Good (2-3 Years of Life):
• Some cosmetic wear
• Minor repairs needed
• Functionally sound overall
• Worth servicing and keeping in rotation

Fair (1-2 Years of Life):
• Significant wear or cosmetic damage
• Needs repairs before deployment
• Still functional but declining
• Plan replacement within 1-2 years

Poor (End of Life):
• Significant structural or mechanical issues
• Repairs exceed 50% of replacement value
• Unsafe or unreliable for rental
• Candidate for recycling or retirement

Step 2: Prioritize Repairs and Maintenance

For units you're keeping:

Critical Repairs (Do Now):
• Structural damage that could worsen
• Plumbing or pump issues
• Unsafe door or latch mechanisms
• Roof leaks (prevent water damage during storage)

Maintenance (Can Wait Until Spring):
• Cosmetic touch-ups and repainting
• Non-critical hardware replacement
• Interior cleaning and refreshing
• Decal updates

Prioritize what prevents further damage or makes units unsafe.

Step 3: Develop a Service Plan

For units needing service:

• Document all issues found during inspection
• Get repair quotes from trusted vendors
• Schedule service during off-season when shops have capacity
• Consider doing some work in-house if cost-effective
• Coordinate with suppliers on parts availability

Winter service is often cheaper than emergency spring repairs.

Step 4: Plan Unit Retirement or Recycling

For end-of-life units:

Try Selling First:
• Online marketplaces for used restroom units
• Local used equipment dealers
• Salvage for parts if unit is too damaged for resale
• Negotiate fair prices based on condition

Recycling Options:
• Many components are recyclable (plastic, steel, wood)
• Responsible disposal centers exist in most areas
• Some vendors buy old units for salvage value
• Environmental responsibility builds reputation

Tax Deduction:
• Retirement of fully depreciated equipment may have tax implications
• Consult your accountant about documentation
• Keep records of disposal method

Step 5: Plan Capital Investment for Growth

Use this review to plan next year:

• How many units reach end-of-life? Budget replacements.
• Did you turn away business due to capacity? Plan growth.
• What equipment types perform best? Invest in those.
• Do you need new features or capacities? Plan additions.

Create a Capital Plan:

1. Number of units to replace this year
2. New capacity or features needed
3. Total investment required
4. Timeline for acquisition
5. Financing options (cash, loan, leasing)

Storage and Winterization

Before winter storage, prepare units properly:

• Drain all water systems (prevent freezing damage)
• Treat waste tanks with bio-enzymes
• Close vents and secure all openings
• Cover or shelter units when possible
• Keep inventory organized for spring access

Documentation and Planning

Create an inventory management system:

• Record condition of each unit
• Document repairs and maintenance
• Track acquisition date and cost
• Plan replacement timeline
• Monitor profitability by unit type

This data drives better business decisions.

The ROI of Post-Season Planning

Investing time in this process pays dividends:

• Reduce spring emergency repairs (saves 30-40% on repair costs)
• Extend equipment lifespan (smart maintenance adds 2+ years)
• Optimize capital spending (know what to replace vs. repair)
• Improve spring season readiness (units available when needed)
• Maximize fleet utilization (right equipment in rotation)

Get Help with Your Inventory

TOICO supplies everything you need for unit maintenance and repair—from replacement parts to repair guidance. We can help you assess your fleet and plan optimal capital investment.

Call 1-888-935-1133 or visit www.toico.com to discuss your fleet maintenance and planning needs. Your spring success starts with autumn preparation.