How to Land Government Contracts for Your Septic Pumping Business
Whether you're looking for long-term growth, high value clients, or consistent work; government contracts can be a GAME-CHANGER. Municipalities, public schools, military bases, parks, and other government entities need reliable waste management - and they often outsource to private companies. Here is how you can start winning these contracts.
#1 - Get Your Business Registered (Like Yesterday)
Before you can bid on government work, your business needs to be properly registered. This includes:
- Getting a DUNS number: Required to identify your business in federal databases
- Register with SAM.gov: Required to get federal contracts and grants
- Acquiring a NAICS Code: This will most likely be code 562991 - Septic Tank and Related Services
Local and state governments may have different or additional requirements, so check with your city or county procurement office.
#2 - Meet Compliance and Licensing Standards
Government agencies only work with businesses that are fully licensed, insured, and compliant with environmental regulations. Make sure you have the following:
- A valid business license and septic hauler permit (if your state requires it)
- General liability and commercial auto insurance
- Proof of compliance with OSHA and EPA standards
- A clean track record (background checks may apply)
If you or your drivers need to go on federal property (like military bases), they may need additional clearance or security checks.
#3 - Find Opportunities
Once you're registered, start searching for open bids:
- SAM.gov - Federal opportunities
- Local procurement portals - City and county government projects
- State vendor websites - Many states have their own bid sites
- FedBizOpps / GSA eBuy - For specific departments and schedules
- BidMatch services - Paid tools that send relevant opportunities straight to your inbox
Set up email alerts or RSS feeds so you're notified when a good opportunity comes up.
#4 - Prepare a Strong Bid
Government contracts are highly competitive, believe it or not, and your proposal needs to stand out. Key tips:
- Follow the instructions EXACTLY - missing a single form can disqualify you
- Include all requested documentation (licenses, proof of insurance, past job performance, etc.)
- Price competitively, but profitably
- Highlight experience with similar work and any past contracts or references
- Showcase your capacity, reliability, and availability (important for emergency or recurring work)
If you're new to government bidding, consider starting with small or local contracts before going after larger federal jobs.
#5 - Build Relationships
Many contracts are awarded to businesses that have proven themselves. Start small, deliver excellent service, and build a track record with local agencies. This is one of the most important steps. Also:
- Attend vendor days and municipal networking events
- Introduce yourself to local procurement officers
- Ask current clients if they know of opportunities
Reputation matters - and one great job can lead to years of recurring government work.
Final Thoughts
Government contracts can provide steady income and long-term growth for your septic pumping business. It takes paperwork, preparation, and persistence, but the payoff is worth it.
Need Equipment to Take on Bigger Jobs?
At Iron-Vac Trucks, we help pumpers grow their businesses with custom-built, reliable trucks. Whether you're bidding on a city contract or expanding into municipal work, we can build a truck that gets the job done. Visit septictrucks.com or call us today at 501-279-0001.
By Riley Reed