FAQ

Where do I start?

The first thing to do is get an idea of what it takes to run a shaved ice business. Then, get your business license & health department approval requirements from your city/ county. This process can take some time, so start looking for a location at this time as well.

How much money do I need to get started?

It depends on which building & start-up package you want. Contact us today to get a quote & discuss which options will work best for you!

How long will it take for my order to ship?

We ship orders within 48 hours of receiving your order; however, we usually ship orders the same day we get them. If ordering a Sno Shack building we have a four week lead-time.

What size ice block will fit in my block ice shaver?

A 16 lb. block that is 7.75" x 5" x 12" is what we use here at Sno Shack, Inc. Anything smaller will fit too, just remember the smaller the block, the more often you'll have to pause to re-load ice into the machine if you are busy!

What do I say to property manager to secure a location?

When approaching a location’s leasing manager, especially in a grocery store parking lot, use the concept that you want to rent a parking space to the back of the parking lot away from the store entrance. This will benefit their business by creating extra income for them from a parking space that on its own does not bring in that much income in a summer (because grocery store clients want to park close to the entrance of the store). But this also allows you your own identity.  Research other concession businesses in your area to get a realistic idea on the going rate for rent.  Having an offer in mind will help in the negotiation of your agreement.

How many employees do I need?

Many Sno Shack owners run & operate the business themselves but you'll find that as you get more & more regular customers you may need to hire some employees. Read More...

What prices should I charge?

Click here to see our recommended pricing.

How often do I need to sharpen/ change my blades?

Every 3000 servings on the block shaver blades & every 5000 servings on a cube shaver blade.

How long are the flavor concentrates good for?

They will usually last about two years. Note: this is just the concentrated flavors. The syrup (flavor concentrate mixed with sugar water) will usually only last a few days un-preserved & 6 weeks if it's preserved.

How do I make sugar water?

It's simple! Click here to get the recipe.

Are there different types of block ice?

Yes! Make sure you get the best ice that is available to you!

Can I put ice straight from the freezer into the ice shaver?

We suggest letting the ice sit out for 15-20 minutes to let the ice temper. You will notice the edges of the ice bag come away from the ice about 1" on all sides of the corners...that's how you'll know it's ready.

Can my blades be sharpened?

We can sharpen block shaver blades but not cube shaver blades, we suggest replacing the cube shaver blades when they wear out.

Where do I send my block shaver blades to be sharpened?

Sno Shack, Inc.
2774 North 4000 West
Rexburg, ID  83440

Please include a note in the box indicating that you want the blades sharpened with your name/ address/ phone number so we can contact you for payment information & let you know they are on their way back to you. We can usually ship sharpened blades back to you the same day we receive the dull blades.

Why do I need to use both the citric acid AND the preservative powder to preserve the sugar water?

The citric acid acts as the activator for the preservative powder (sodium benzoate) so you really need to use both to properly preserve the sugar water so your flavor syrups stay fresh.