Rates and costs
HOW THE PRICE IS FORMED · WHAT IS INCLUDED · WHAT IS NOT
The rate for a machine or a job is not a fixed number, and “price on request” is not a sales trick. The same job can cost twice as much depending on distance, duration and ground. Below we explain exactly what goes into the calculation, so you know what to ask and what to compare when you receive several quotes.
The three ways of invoicing
| Basis | When it is used | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| By the hour | short interventions, a few hours of work | there is a guaranteed minimum, because the machine has to be transported anyway |
| By the day | the most common option | one day generally means 8 hours of actual work |
| Per job | when you know the result you want, but not the duration | the estimating risk passes to the contractor |
What is included in the rate
- the machine
- the operator qualified for that type of machine
- fuel
- maintenance and any breakdowns
What is invoiced separately
- transport of the machine to the site and back
- materials: ballast, crushed stone, sand, asphalt mix
- removal of soil or debris
What moves the price the most
Distance. A machine that travels tens of kilometres to the site uses up half a day just on the road. That is why companies work within a radius, and beyond it the price rises noticeably.
Duration. A single isolated day is the most expensive way to rent. Five consecutive days work out much cheaper per day, because the transport cost is spread out.
Access. If the machine gets in with difficulty, if a fence has to be taken down or if the work is in a tight space, the duration increases — and with it, the cost.
Ground. Topsoil, wet clay or gravelly ground are not dug equally fast. For asphalt paving, the condition of the existing layer decides half of the price.
How to get an accurate quote first time
The best way to shorten the discussion is to come with the details ready. Tell us:
- what the job is and its approximate dimensions
- the exact location
- whether the machine has clear access or not
- whether the soil or debris stays on site or has to be removed
- when you would like the work to start
With this information, the quote comes the same working day. Without it, any figure is guesswork.