Construction, landscaping, and home improvement projects all require material hauling. If you've never hired a hauling service before, the costs might be a mystery to you. Let's break down what to expect and some budgeting tips so you can stay in budget for your project.
What Affects Hauling Costs?
Material hauling isn't a flat rate. It depends on a few things:
1. Type of Material
Different materials have different weights, volume, and handling requirements.
Gravel, sand, and dirt are typically priced by the cubic yard or ton.
Heavy materials like concrete or asphalt may require specialized equipment and handling, increasing the cost.
Bulkier items like lumber may require a different type of transport, affecting the rate.
2. Distance and Location
The farther your delivery site is from the supplier, the more you’ll pay in fuel and labor costs.
Deliveries to rural or hard-to-access areas may come with extra charges.
Urban areas may have restrictions that require special permits or additional planning.
3. Load Size
Smaller loads can be more expensive per unit because they don't fill the truck, making the trip less efficient.
Larger, full-truckload deliveries provide better value per ton or cubic yard.
4. Time of Delivery
Some haulers offer flexible scheduling, but last-minute requests or specific time slots may come with an added premium.
Weekend or after-hours deliveries can also affect pricing.
5. Additional Services
Need unloading assistance? Some haulers charge extra for offloading services.
If you require specific placement (e.g., spreading gravel instead of just dumping it), that can add to the cost.
Special handling, such as hazardous material transport, will also increase the price.
How to Budget for Material Hauling
Planning ahead can help keep costs in check.
1. Get an Estimate
Ask for an itemized quote that breaks down material cost, delivery fees, and any potential extras.
Be clear about your location and any special requests upfront.
2. Maximize Your Load
If possible, consolidate orders to reduce per-unit hauling costs.
A slightly larger order might be cheaper overall than making multiple smaller hauls.
3. Schedule Smart
Plan deliveries during standard business hours.
If your project is flexible, ask about off-peak pricing or bundled delivery options.
4. Watch for Hidden Costs
Check whether unloading fees, permit requirements, or fuel surcharges are included in your quote.
Make sure your delivery site is easy to reach.
Recap
Material hauling costs depend on the type of material, distance, load size, timing, and extra services. Getting a clear estimate, planning deliveries wisely, and maximizing your load can help keep costs down. Watch for hidden fees and confirm that the delivery site is accessible to avoid extra charges. Now that you know what to expect, you can plan your project.
Need a quote? Ordered too little? Need more on the spot? Fortress Trucking has you covered. Quick deliveries, friendly drivers - just like our customers say. Give us a call today if you need hauling in the OKC area.