New vacuum trucks are perhaps the most visible symbol of Darin Gross’ efforts to refresh Turner Sanitation, a Lake Orion, Michigan, septic pumping and restroom-rental company he bought in January 2020.

“The trucks are probably right up there at the top in terms of our rebranding efforts,” says Gross. “It’s right up there as part of our business plan.”

The first was built out by TankTec. The 2020 International CV515 is equipped with a 1,600-gallon aluminum tank; an air-cooled Challenger 607 Max Pak pump manufactured by National Vacuum Equipment; a 350 hp International diesel engine; and an Allison automatic transmission. The second is a 2021 International HV607-H1 built out by FlowMark Vacuum Trucks with a 4,200-gallon aluminum tank and National Vacuum Equipment pump.

The trucks check off a lot of boxes for Gross. Aluminum tanks help the vehicles reduce weight when fully loaded. The CV515 is light enough loaded to be driven by non-CDL drivers.

“We sometimes turn down jobs because we don’t have enough CDL drivers,” he says. “I hate to turn down business, and this smaller truck solves that problem.”

Furthermore, the smaller truck can be maneuvered in tight quarters without damaging driveways or yards. The heavier-duty pump cuts tank cleaning time roughly in half, which boosts productivity and profitability.

Because two waste disposal sites are within a reasonable distance of Lake Orion, located about 40 miles north of Detroit, Gross likes the option of using the smaller truck, as well as the large capacity of the larger rig.

Gross also believes newer vehicles are a great employee retention tool because drivers dislike a rig that breaks down frequently. He’s also convinced that employees treat new trucks better.

Moreover, new trucks impress customers. “A new truck like this makes us look more professional and legit,” he says.