When is Low Cost Costing You More

Choosing the right portable restroom, roll-off dumpster, temporary fence, or portable power services for your project usually means sifting through a range of quotes, some strikingly low, others higher. However, let’s look more closely at whether the least expensive quote really is the best. Or, if you should invest a little more upfront when selecting your project partners to be sure you’re not regretting your choice in the long run? 

Before you settle on a quote, it’s worth questioning whether the cheapest option will truly deliver the long-term reliability and quality you’re after. 

There are many factors to consider, including: 

1. Will the partner working on your project be professional, capable, respectful, and knowledgeable — or are they simply laborers? It may seem like a simple task, but servicing your portable toilets, roll-off dumpster, fencing, or power services is actually a really important part of a safe, clean, productive job site. You want the people servicing these items to be engaged, empowered individuals who take pride in their jobs and the service they offer. 
2. Are the service technicians background checked? On any work site, safety is the top concern. But safety doesn’t stop with the site itself; the workers and technicians on the site should be background checked, honest, and reliable. This requirement is particularly critical when working on security-sensitive sites like schools, community centers, government buildings, and more. 
3. Are the service technicians legally permitted to work in the United States? Companies who hire undocumented individuals are often able to offer services far below market rate – because they pay their workers less and assign these workers longer shifts. Be certain you’re working with a partner who respects their workforce and follows all labor and employment laws. 
4. Will you have the same technician each time your site or project is serviced? Or will you see a new face each time? It’s always better when you can develop a relationship with a technician you can trust on your site. The technician gets to know you, understands your expectations, and remembers your preferences. When you have an issue, it’s reassuring to be able to call your trusted contact. 
5. Does the company have documented service procedures to ensure your units are cleaned thoroughly and efficiently each time? Listen, everyone is busy and, without a standardized checklist, it’s easier for a technician to sometimes forget the steps involved in servicing your units. That’s one of the reasons every United Site Services Service Technician is trained in our Ten Point Service Plan, to ensure we provide consistent and high-quality sanitation services across all sites. 
6. Are they easy to get in touch with to resolve issues? Do they use technology that allows you to self-service when appropriate? When you have an issue, you don’t want to call, leave a voicemail, wait for standard business hours, etc. Your projects are your business’s lifeblood, and you need to be sure any problems are resolved as soon as possible. You want self-service tools and portals to help you either solve the issue directly or connect quickly with a service expert. United Site Services is committed to and investing in self-service technology to ensure our customers get the support they need when they need it. 
7. Do they offer coverage in your area? If you’ve got multiple sites across a region, it’s so much simpler and more efficient to work with one partner who can offer the same consistent, familiar services across all of your sites. United Site Services offers more coverage and locations than nearly any other site services organization. 
8. How long have they been in business? A company’s longevity in the industry can be a strong indicator of its reliability and service quality. An established business with a proven track record demonstrates experience, trustworthiness, and the ability to adapt to industry changes. Choosing a well-established partner can give you confidence that they will be there to support your project from start to finish. 
9. Are they insured? Insurance coverage is crucial for protecting both you and the service provider in case of accidents, damages, or unforeseen issues. Working with an insured company ensures that you won’t be held financially liable for mishaps that may occur on the job site. Always verify that your provider carries adequate liability and workers’ compensation insurance. 

Choosing the right site service provider is about more than just cost. It’s about reliability, professionalism, and ensuring your job site runs smoothly. United Site Services is dedicated to delivering top-tier service and support to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your next project!