How Much Does Hydro Excavation Cost? A Detailed Breakdown

Hydro excavation is the preferred method for safe, non-destructive digging around underground utilities, pipelines, and infrastructure. Contractors, municipalities, and utility companies increasingly rely on hydro excavation trucks to perform precision soil removal without risking damage to buried assets. But one of the most common questions asked is: “How much does hydro excavation cost?”

If you’re a contractor or project owner looking to compare service rates or invite qualified operators to bid, you can post your hydro excavation project for bids  directly through our platform.

The answer depends on multiple factors—ranging from equipment type and project scope to soil conditions and regional rates. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of hydro excavation pricing, helping project managers, engineers, and utility planners budget accurately for upcoming work.

Average Cost of Hydro Excavation

On average, hydro excavation services cost between $250 and $500 per hour, depending on location, scope, and contractor. Daily rates typically range from $2,000 to $4,500, with larger-scale projects priced by volume or cubic yard.

Factors such as mobilization fees, labor, water supply, and debris disposal also play a role in the final cost.

Key Cost Factors in Hydro Excavation

1. Equipment Type

  • Hydro Vac Trucks: Full-sized units with larger debris tanks and higher-powered pumps typically cost more per hour than trailer-mounted systems.
  • Trailer Units: Smaller and more affordable but limited in tank size, making them better for short-duration jobs.

2. Soil Conditions

  • Clay and Frozen Soil: Require higher PSI, a diesel fired boiler to heat the water and more time, increasing fuel and labor costs.
  • Sandy or Loamy Soil: Easier to excavate, reducing overall time and expense.

3. Project Scope

  • Potholing/Daylighting: Quick utility exposure jobs often billed hourly, per hole or per project.
  • Trenching or Large Excavations: Priced per cubic yard, a daily rate or per project.

4. Mobilization and Travel

  • Contractors often charge a mobilization fee for transporting hydro vac trucks to the jobsite. Long-distance travel may add mileage surcharges.

5. Labor and Crew Size

  • Most hydro excavation projects require 2–3 operators per truck. Labor rates vary by region and union requirements.

6. Water Supply and Disposal

  • Some contractors provide water; others charge extra if water must be delivered.
  • Debris disposal fees (dump site charges) can significantly impact costs depending on soil volume.

Cost Breakdown Example

For a single-day hydro excavation project in average soil conditions:

  • Hourly Rate: $300/hour × 8 hours = $2,400
  • Mobilization Fee: $500
  • Water Supply: $150
  • Debris Disposal: $250
    Estimated Total: $3,300 for one full day

Regional Price Variations

Hydro excavation costs vary across North America:

  • Midwest/Canada: $250–$350/hour (competitive markets, common in utility work).
  • Western U.S.: $300–$400/hour (higher fuel and labor costs).
  • Urban Projects: Often more expensive due to traffic control and permitting.

Is Hydro Excavation Worth the Cost?

While hydro excavation can seem more expensive than traditional digging, it often reduces overall project costs by:

  • Preventing expensive utility strikes and repairs.
  • Speeding up work in frozen or compacted soils.
  • Reducing restoration and backfill costs.
  • Minimizing liability and safety risks.

Cost-Saving Tips for Hydro Excavation

  • Combine multiple jobs into one mobilization to reduce transport fees.
  • Use smaller units for limited potholing jobs.
  • Schedule work during off-peak times to secure better hourly rates.
  • Partner with experienced contractors who can complete jobs efficiently.

Conclusion

The cost of hydro excavation varies based on location, equipment, and project complexity, but typical rates range from $250 to $500 per hour. While the upfront price may be higher than mechanical digging, the safety, precision, and risk reduction benefits often make hydro excavation the most cost-effective solution in the long run.

If you’re ready to get accurate pricing for your upcoming project, invite hydrovac contractors to bid today.