According to reports, the estimated average cost of a mini digger is already $120 per day while an excavator can be priced at $100 hourly.
Excavators tend to be more expensive than mini diggers as they do more dig works. But if you are going to hire an operator, the price will change depending on how you negotiate it with the hiring company. Notably, the cost of an operator can be as low as $50 per hour and as high as $150.
If you are going to add this to the cost of the machine, you are going to spend about $150 per hour for an excavator and operator. Have it in mind that this cost is driven by different factors. But, you can always negotiate the price.
A bobcat machine is helpful in many ways. Whether you are digging a large area as part of your construction project or you just intend to use it for your personal home improvement, it is easier to leverage this kind of machine rather than waste your time to dig manually.
No one does manual digging anymore as it is a waste of money and time. However, if you are looking to settle or charge a fair price, just consider these factors and the guide properly outlined below to know how much you should charge for your bobcat work per hour.
Factors That Determine How Much to Charge for Bobcat Work Per Hour
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Level of experience
An entry-level or new operator can be hired at a minimum of $50 per hour. Meanwhile, an experienced or great operator has a cost of up to $150 per hour. Note that some contractors only work on excavation projects; therefore, you will have to hire other people for the rest of the job.
In other cases, one company can offer multiple services (ex: excavation and installation of a French drain). If you do business with this type of company, the full price will be on one bill and you won’t have to deal with different contractors, which could make things easier for you.
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Size of the Project
The size of the project is one of the most important determinants of price. For example, the cost of excavation for septic tank installation is minuscule compared to the cost of digging the foundation of a 600,000-square-foot distribution center. The larger and more complex the excavation project is, the more expensive it will be.
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Type of Equipment Needed
Have it in mind that the type of equipment the project calls for can impact the cost you charge for excavation more than you may expect. Using a bulldozer to create a level surface is usually the least expensive approach. If the project requires a grader or backhoe, you can expect to charge more to cover equipment rental and compensation.
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Time of Year
Note that seasonal differences impact project costs, as well. In New York State, most people schedule excavation between late spring and early fall when the ground is soft, and the weather is clear, so business is booming during those months and prices are typically high.
You will be expected to charge a lower rate if the excavation falls in during early spring or late fall when you have more time available.
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Location
Prices may also vary depending on where you live. The farther a client lives from the excavation company, the more you will charge to get your equipment and expertise to their house and to cover the cost of various trips (to the dumping grounds, to the home renovation store, to the gas station).
Also, if the soil in the yard has particular characteristics that complicate the excavation process, this could affect the final price. Many different types of soils exist. Indeed, soft ground is easier to dig whereas soil that is hard and stony will make things more complex. In certain cases, you might have to demolish a concrete slab or a solid structure.
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Cost calculation methods
Each company uses different cost calculation methods. Sometimes, labor costs and equipment usage are charged on an hourly basis, soil removal is calculated according to the size of the truck, and extra charges, like adding a new layer of soil, are added subsequently.
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Size of Bobcat
Another that will ultimately affect the price is the size of the bobcat, the bigger the machine, the higher its cost. You can charge an extra $5 on top of the original cost of the machine if you want more tonnage bracket.
Some clients will expect discounts especially if they are planning to hire both the bobcat and the operator from the same company. Packages are usually priced lower compared to when prices are added to the independent costs of the bobcat and operator.
These factors mentioned above will greatly influence the price you charge for your Bobcat Work. However, note that offering discounts can help you find new clients as well as building a solid business base for loyal and regular clients.