The Current State and Future Growth of Mobile Fleet Washing

Please log onto the Operator Page to view this video discussion.

Shad: A Pioneer in Fleet Washing Shad, with 27 years in the truck wash business, is truly one of the original BioClean Operator. Starting back when mobile fleet washing was just beginning, he saw the industry grow and evolve. St. Cloud, with a population of about 60,000 in the city proper and 150,000-200,000 within a 60-mile radius, is his primary service area. 

Tyler: Riding the Wave of Growth in Omaha Tyler has been in the fleet washing business for 12 years, spending the last three with Bio Clean. Omaha, with a metropolitan area of nearly a million people, has experienced rapid and sustained growth in its trucking industry over the past five years. This includes significant expansion in food distribution, aggregate, and concrete hauling. Tyler’s company was well-established before this boom, allowing them to become the go-to for fleet washing in the Omaha area. 

The Current State of the Fleet Industry: Steady Growth and Future Optimism 

Both Shad and Tyler noted a consistent theme: growth. While Shad described the St. Cloud market as “steady” and only slightly down from his best year ever, he’s optimistic about a potential boom in the next year or two, driven by anticipated national investment. Tyler, on the other hand, is experiencing “massive growth” in Omaha, necessitating a recent expansion with a new shop and three new trucks. 

The strategic geographic locations of both St. Cloud and Omaha, positioned near major interstate crossings and key agricultural/industrial hubs, contribute significantly to the constant demand for fleet washing. This continuous need highlights the industry’s inherent resilience. As Shad put it, “I don’t know if it’s recession proof, but it’s pretty close.” Fleet washing is an essential business, even during economic downturns or global pandemics, though service frequency might adjust. 

Tackling Industry Challenges 

No industry is without its hurdles, and fleet washing is no exception. Tyler pinpointed staffing as his biggest challenge. Finding and retaining competent wash technicians is crucial for growth and maintaining quality. Tyler emphasized the difficulty of filling truck seats even with new vehicles ready to go, often putting him back on the wash gun himself.  

Another key challenge, particularly Shad, involves environmental issues and the complexities of washing polished aluminum. Some companies prefer not to have washing done even with reclamation, and polished aluminum requires specialized care to avoid damage, demanding highly skilled operators and specific products. 

Why Fleet Washing? The Appeal of a Resilient Industry 

So, what makes fleet washing such an attractive industry? 

• Convenient Hours: Unlike commercial storefronts or residential jobs that often demand late-night or early-morning work, fleet washing can be done during daytime hours on weekends or afternoons during the week when truck yards are less busy. This flexibility offers a better work-life balance for operators. 

• Recurring Revenue: Many customers opt for weekly or bi-weekly washes, providing a consistent and predictable revenue stream. As Shad noted, “If you do a good job, I don’t have to seek out a lot of new customers.” 

• Less Hassle than Residential: Both operators agreed that fleet washing avoids the common complaints associated with residential work, such as issues with landscaping or minor soap residue. Trucks are a more straightforward washing proposition. 

• A Steppingstone for Employees: Shad highlighted a unique benefit: providing opportunities for employees to gain experience and even obtain CDLs, serving as a “springboard” for them to advance their careers. 

The Evolution of Fleet Washing: Technology and Network Power 

BioClean Systems has come a long way and continues to learn, especially concerning equipment and support. 

• Improved Technology: Shad raved about advancements in equipment. BioClean guns, injectors, and tips are far more durable, lasting years without problems compared to the constant checks and replacements needed previously. New wands with removable handles have been a “game-changer,” reducing wear and tear. Pumps and pressure regulators are also more efficient, allowing for consistent pressure between 1200-1300 PSI – the “sweet spot” for effective cleaning without overworking operators or wasting water. 

• The Power of the Bio Clean Network: Both Shad and Tyler emphasized the immense value of being part of the Bio Clean Systems network. Tyler noted that Bio Clean has allowed his business to “scale faster” and “train faster without letting quality slip.” Shad, a long-time operator, appreciates the readily available answers and support from the network, a stark contrast to the early days when he had to figure out solutions largely on his own. This collaborative environment, including mastermind meetings and shared knowledge, has made the industry “all around much better.” 

What Keeps Customers Coming Back? 

Quality and relationships are paramount. 

• Exceptional Service: Making things right when a mistake occurs is crucial. As Shad stated, “If we do a bad job, I don’t charge… I make it right.” 

• Personal Touch: For each of them, maintaining a personal connection with customers – where they know the owner or a dedicated manager – fosters loyalty that large corporations often lack. 

• Reliability: In a competitive landscape, consistently delivering quality service and being a trusted name keeps businesses like Tyler’s as the “go-to” option. 

• Value Over Just Price: While price is a factor, the overall value, reliability, and service often outweigh being the absolute cheapest option, especially when competition tends to be less experienced.