Satellite Industries makes the portable restroom units you see on job sites, at events, and in temporary work zones

Satellite Industries is a manufacturer based in Longview, Washington that designs and builds portable restroom units, handwashing stations, and waste management equipment. They do not operate rental fleets themselves — instead, they make the units that rental companies buy and then rent to customers. If you are renting a portable restroom from a local vendor, there is a reasonable chance it came from Satellite Industries' factory.

Understanding what Satellite Industries makes matters because the features, durability, and price of a portable restroom depend partly on who manufactured it. Satellite's units tend to appear in mid-range rental markets — not the cheapest options, but not the premium luxury models either. Knowing the manufacturer can help you understand what you are paying for and what to expect from the unit's condition and features.

Key Takeaways

  • Satellite Industries manufactures portable restroom units sold to rental companies, not directly to end users — you rent through a local vendor, not from the factory.
  • Their units are standard fiberglass or plastic construction and typically include a holding tank, toilet seat, and ventilation, with options for handwashing stations and waste pumping equipment.
  • Rental prices vary by location and vendor, not by Satellite Industries directly, so you will need to contact local portable restroom companies for quotes.
  • Satellite Industries units are designed for construction sites, outdoor events, and temporary facilities where standard plumbing is not available.

What Satellite Industries portable restrooms include

A standard Satellite Industries portable restroom unit contains a fiberglass or plastic cabinet, a holding tank underneath, a toilet seat with a lid, and a ventilation system to manage odor. Most units have a hand sanitizer dispenser mounted inside. The holding tank sits below ground level or on a trailer, depending on the installation type, and a pumping truck empties it when full.

Satellite Industries also manufactures handwashing stations that can stand alone or attach to a restroom unit. These typically include a water tank, soap dispenser, and paper towel holder. Some vendors rent these as add-ons to a restroom package, especially for food service events or construction sites where health codes require handwashing stations nearby.

The company makes units in different sizes and configurations. A single-stall unit is the most common rental. Some vendors also offer multi-stall trailers that Satellite Industries manufactures — these are larger units with multiple toilet compartments, sinks, and mirrors, often used at large events or construction projects with many workers.

How rental pricing works when Satellite Industries units are involved

Satellite Industries sets the wholesale price for their units, but that cost does not appear on your rental invoice. Instead, local rental companies buy Satellite units and mark them up based on delivery distance, rental duration, pumping frequency, and local market rates. A one-week rental in a rural area costs less than the same rental in a city, even if both units came from Satellite Industries.

Monthly rentals are cheaper per day than weekly rentals. Event rentals (one day or a few days) carry a higher per-day rate because the vendor must deliver, set up, and pick up. Construction site rentals often run for weeks or months at a lower daily rate. Pumping fees — the cost to empty the tank — are usually separate from the rental fee and depend on how often the tank needs emptying.

To find out what a Satellite Industries unit costs in your area, contact three or four local portable restroom rental companies and ask for quotes. Mention the duration of your rental and how many people will use the unit, because that affects pumping frequency and the vendor's recommendation for unit size.

Where Satellite Industries units appear most often

Satellite Industries portable restrooms are standard equipment on construction sites, especially residential and commercial building projects. Contractors rent them because they are durable, straightforward to move on a trailer, and designed to withstand outdoor weather and heavy use. The units are also common at outdoor events — festivals, fairs, marathons, and temporary markets — where temporary restroom facilities are needed for a few days or weeks.

You will also find Satellite Industries units at campgrounds, outdoor recreation areas, and temporary work zones like utility repair sites or agricultural operations. The company's units are not typically used in permanent buildings or facilities with existing plumbing, because those locations have standard indoor restrooms.

Maintenance and condition of Satellite Industries rental units

Satellite Industries units are designed to be cleaned and serviced repeatedly. A rental company is responsible for cleaning the unit before delivery and pumping the tank regularly during the rental period. The condition of the unit you receive depends on the rental company's maintenance schedule, not on Satellite Industries directly — the manufacturer builds the unit, but the vendor maintains it.

If you receive a unit that is dirty, damaged, or not functioning, contact the rental company when ready. They are responsible for providing a clean, working unit. Do not assume damage is normal wear — most reputable vendors will replace a unit if it arrives in poor condition.

Satellite Industries units are built to last several years with regular maintenance. The fiberglass or plastic exterior resists weather and UV damage. The holding tank is sealed to prevent leaks. If a unit fails during your rental, the vendor should replace it at no additional cost.

How to rent a Satellite Industries portable restroom

You do not rent directly from Satellite Industries. Instead, search online for "portable restroom rental" plus your city name, or call your local waste management or sanitation companies — many of them rent portable restrooms as a side service. Ask the vendor whether they stock Satellite Industries units, though many vendors do not advertise the manufacturer by name.

When you call or visit a rental company's website, provide these details: the location where the unit will be placed, the dates you need it, the number of people who will use it, and whether you need a handwashing station or other add-ons. The vendor will quote a price, delivery date, and pumping schedule. Most companies require a deposit and payment before delivery.

Delivery usually happens the day before or the morning of your event or project start date. The vendor will position the unit where you specify, make sure it is level and stable, and show you how to use it. Pickup happens after your rental ends, usually within one business day of your requested end date.

Satellite Industries versus other portable restroom manufacturers

Other manufacturers in the portable restroom market include PolyJohn, Thetford, and Orion. Each company makes units with similar basic features — a holding tank, toilet, ventilation — but differences exist in materials, design, and durability. PolyJohn units are often the most affordable option. Thetford and Orion units sometimes cost more but may include upgraded features like larger tanks or better ventilation.

Satellite Industries units fall in the middle range. They are not the cheapest option, but they are not premium luxury units either. If you have a choice between vendors, you can ask which manufacturer they use and compare features and prices. In most cases, the rental company and location matter more than the manufacturer — a well-maintained Satellite unit will serve you better than a neglected unit from any other maker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a Satellite Industries portable restroom instead of renting?

Satellite Industries sells units to rental companies and contractors, not to individual consumers. If you want to own a portable restroom, you would need to contact a commercial supplier or dealer who sells used units. Ownership is practical only if you need a restroom permanently or for many years, because the purchase price is high and you are responsible for maintenance and pumping.

What happens if the Satellite Industries unit breaks during my rental?

Contact the rental company when ready. They are responsible for providing a working unit and should replace it at no cost to you. Do not attempt to repair it yourself. The vendor will send a replacement unit and pick up the broken one.

How often does the tank get pumped during a rental?

Pumping frequency depends on how many people use the unit and how often. A vendor typically pumps every three to seven days for a construction site with many workers, or once at the end of a short event rental. Ask the rental company what their schedule is when you book, and let them know if usage is heavier than expected.

Are Satellite Industries portable restrooms ADA accessible?

Satellite Industries makes standard units and also manufactures accessible units designed to meet ADA requirements. If you need an accessible restroom, tell the rental company when you request a quote. They may charge more for an accessible unit, and availability depends on local inventory.

Can I move a Satellite Industries unit myself?

No. Portable restrooms are heavy and require a specialized trailer and towing vehicle. The rental company handles all delivery and pickup. Moving a unit yourself could damage it and void your rental agreement.