”Mowing may seem simple, but profitability hinges on strategic fleet management, disciplined purchasing cycles, and razor-sharp pricing. Industry leaders reveal how optimizing equipment choices, maintenance schedules, and job pricing separates thriving lawn care businesses from those barely cutting it.”
Industry Experts Share Insights on Fleet Management and Profitability
For many lawn care operators, mowing—though seemingly straightforward—presents hidden complexities, from optimizing equipment purchases to setting accurate service prices. Business owners and industry leaders emphasize that overlooking these factors can quickly erode profits.
Building the Ideal Mower Fleet
Selecting the right mowers depends on property types, job sizes, and budget constraints. Scott Bierman, owner of Pro-Mow Lawn Care in Charleston, IL, favors 60-inch mowers for efficiency and simplified maintenance.
“Having a uniform fleet streamlines parts inventory and servicing,” Bierman says. “Brand loyalty also matters—our local dealer’s support heavily influences our decisions.”
Joseph Holland of Majestic Lawn Care & Landscape in New York echoes this sentiment, noting that sticking with one brand simplifies parts stocking and upkeep. However, he cautions against adopting new technology too soon.
“We wait a few years to ensure any kinks are resolved,” Holland explains. “Preventative maintenance is key—our in-house mechanic helps us extend mower lifespans to 2,500+ hours.”
Timing Equipment Purchases
Brian Schoenthaler of The Grasshopper Co. highlights varied approaches: some operators replace mowers every 2–3 years for warranties and updated features, while others prioritize longevity. Trade-in value remains a critical consideration.
Bierman’s strategy involves buying new mowers, using them for 3–4 years (or 1,200–1,500 hours), then selling them while they retain value. “Beyond that, repair costs add up,” he says. Holland’s team, however, maximizes equipment life through rigorous maintenance.
Pricing for Profit
Pricing mowing services requires balancing overhead, labor, and market rates. Schoenthaler advises operators to assess local competition and consider efficiency-boosting investments, like diesel mowers, which can save 650+ gallons of fuel annually.
Both Bierman and Holland enforce minimum pricing thresholds. “Even a quick job must cover drive time and overhead,” Bierman stresses. Holland’s firm drops clients who don’t meet annual revenue targets, emphasizing constant financial analysis.
“Efficiency dictates profitability,” Bierman adds. “We optimize routes—saying ‘no’ to misaligned schedules protects margins.” Holland agrees: “In competitive markets, knowing your numbers separates thriving businesses from struggling ones.”
By refining fleet choices, purchase cycles, and pricing models, lawn care operators can transform mowing from a cost center into a profit driver.
