Advice for someone (me) wanting to start a land clearing business.

[naveediq70]

That sounds like a solid plan, especially considering the terrain in Western Washington. A tracked compact loader with a high-capacity flail mower is a smart choice for handling the soft soil conditions. A utility tractor could work for basic mowing, but as you mentioned, it would limit your ability to take on more diverse land-clearing jobs.


Starting as a side business is a great approach—it gives you time to build a client base without taking on too much financial risk. One thing to consider is renting equipment initially to test demand before committing to a purchase. You might also look into financing options for a used machine to help with cash flow.


For inspiration, companies like Cold Start Construction specialize in dirt work and land clearing, and checking out their approach could give you some valuable insights into growing your business efficiently.

 

[ultrarunner]

Childhood friend has done the same 15 years now and picked up government contracts…

He has his commercial license and able to haul his own equipment, wife is the book keeper and takes calls and son in law is helper…

His 2 excavators are the backbone and the larger one with the 6 way blade is a real money maker…

It helps that he isn’t bothered much by poison oak/ivy.

He seriously underestimated one of his early jobs but completed on time… the customer was impressed and said your bid didn’t cover expenses?

My friend said no but the customer was impressed by my friends integrity and started sending business and word of mouth can make or break a company.

Insurance is a big factor but without it many jobs are out of reach.

 

[naveediq70]

Sounds like your friend built a solid business through hard work, integrity, and smart equipment choices. Government contracts, a reliable team, and word-of-mouth referrals are huge advantages. Insurance is definitely a must for scaling up and securing bigger projects. His experience shows that reputation and professionalism go a long way in this industry!

 

[Daviddan]

I am considering starting a small land clearing business here in western Washington. I will have to start small as I don't have start-up capital to purchase a small mulcher outright so my thought was going with a used tracked compact loader (bobcat, case, deere, etc) and a high capacity flail mower like this one. http://www.usmower.com/products/skidsteer/razor/razor_specifications.pdf This will initially be a side line business for me to give me time to build a client base and the loader will be used around my home on 5 acres. I feel that I have no option but to go tracked given the soft soil conditions around here in the spring and fall in this area. I have also considered a utility tractor, 4wd, with a flail on the back but I think this would only give me the capability of mowing overgrown pasture and small vegitation, limiting my potential client base.

I am looking for any input folks in this business may have on this plan of mine. Any advice or experiences you care to share would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Christian.

Your plan makes sense, especially starting with a tracked compact loader for better traction in wet conditions. A high-capacity flail mower should handle brush and small trees well, though it may struggle with larger material compared to a dedicated mulcher. As you grow, consider reinvesting in a forestry mulcher for greater efficiency. Networking with local property owners, developers, and farmers could help build a steady client base. Best of luck with your new venture!

 

[dodge man]

Just a note that this thread was started over 10years ago.

 

[deezler]

Zombie threads are the best though. This one is chock full of good advice, keep it rolling!

Does a basic skid-steer flail mower actually shred woody bushes and saplings well enough for a land-clearing biz?

 

[charlespace]

I am considering starting a small land clearing business here in western Washington. I will have to start small as I don't have start-up capital to purchase a small mulcher outright so my thought was going with a used tracked compact loader (bobcat, case, deere, etc) and a high capacity flail mower like this one. Account Suspended This will initially be a side line business for me to give me time to build a client base and the loader will be used around my home on 5 acres. I feel that I have no option but to go tracked given the soft soil conditions around here in the spring and fall in this area. I have also considered a utility tractor, 4wd, with a flail on the back but I think this would only give me the capability of mowing overgrown pasture and small vegitation, limiting my potential client base.

I am looking for any input folks in this business may have on this plan of mine. Any advice or experiences you care to share would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Christian.

Your plan sounds solid, especially with the tracked compact loader for handling soft soil conditions. A high-capacity flail mower is a great start for clearing light to moderate brush, and you can expand to a mulcher as your business grows. Networking with local contractors and marketing to small landowners can help build your client base faster. Best of luck!