Playing in the Snow

Inside the World of Shoveling Snow

February 25, 2025

Winter brings more than just beautiful snowfall - it brings opportunity for enterprising individuals looking to earn some money. Shoveling snow is pretty straightforward, but turning this activity into a successful side hustle requires careful planning and execution.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into everything that you need to know to start and grow a snow shoveling business.

What Do I Need To Get Started?

Starting a snow shoveling business has a relatively low barrier to entry. At a minimum, you will need a quality snow shovel ($20-40), but investing in better equipment can increase your efficiency and earning potential.

To get started, you should consider purchasing the following:

  • An ergonomic snow shovel with a curved handle to reduce back strain

  • A snow pusher for large, flat areas

  • Snow boots with excellent traction

  • Waterproof winter clothing

  • High-visibility safety vest for early morning or evening work

Once you begin to make money, you might consider buying a snow blower to make the process more streamlined. Just keep in mind that you will need to factor in costs for equipment maintenance if you decide to go this route.

Who Can Benefit From These Services?

Be sure to choose your service area carefully. Dense suburban neighborhoods will often work best, as you will be able to service multiple clients without having to spend too much time travelling between jobs.

Your primary clientele will consist of:

  • Elderly residents who cannot safely shovel themselves

  • Busy professionals who leave for work early

  • Property management companies

  • Small businesses requiring clear walkways

  • Homeowners who are frequently away during winter

Be sure to emphasize your ability to be reliable and professional in your marketing efforts. People are looking to hire someone that they are able to trust to get the job done properly.

Below are a few ways that you will be able to build your client base:

  • Neighborhood apps like NextDoor

  • Local Facebook groups

  • Flyers in mailboxes before winter

  • Word-of-mouth referrals

  • Local business networking

  • Creating partnerships with property management companies

How Much Can You Earn?

As a starting point, many successful snow shoveling companies charge $30-50 for residential services such as driveway and walkway clearing, with rates that increase depending on how much snow has accumulated and the size of the property.

You should consider offering seasonal contracts in which the client pays a fixed monthly rate which will ensure that you receive a steady income regardless of the amount of snowfall.

You can also offer additional services such as driveway and walkway salting which will help to bring in even more income.

Be sure to establish clear policies with the customer in regard to the following:

  • Service triggers (how much snow must fall before you clear)

  • Response time expectations

  • Additional service requests

  • Payment terms

  • Cancellation policies

Be Sure To Protect Yourself

While shoveling snow seems low risk, you should consider getting general liability insurance. This will protect you in the event that you get injured while on the job. It will also protect you in the event of any damage that occurs while you are working.

You can help to protect yourself while shoveling snow by:

  • Using proper lifting techniques (lift with your legs, not your back)

  • Taking regular breaks

  • Staying hydrated despite the cold

  • Wearing appropriate layers that can be removed as you warm up

  • Being visible to traffic in low-light conditions

  • Knowing your limits and not overexerting yourself

Are You Ready To Start Your Side Hustle Grind?

Success depends on reliability, professional service, and smart business practices. While the work is physically demanding and weather dependent, the flexibility and potential earnings make it an attractive option for those who are willing to brave the cold and put in the effort.

Hopefully this idea has piqued your interest and sparked your entrepreneurial spirit.

If you have an idea for a unique side hustle, or if you have turned a side hustle into a full time job, send us an email. We would love to share your success story.

The next Side Hustle Grind newsletter will arrive in your inbox soon. Until then, be sure to check out previous posts from the archive.