Pricing factors
A useful estimate starts with the site.
Photos and measurements help, but access, elevations, soil, drainage, material, and the finished use of the property determine the actual work.
- Project size
The amount of ground, material, and machine time required is usually the largest cost factor.
- Access
Narrow gates, overhead lines, nearby structures, traffic, and limited room for trucks or equipment can change the work plan.
- Soil and moisture
Wet ground, heavy clay, buried debris, soft areas, and unsuitable material can require additional preparation or haul-off.
- Drainage
The finished slope, culverts, swales, outlets, and erosion protection matter because the site must continue working after the equipment leaves.
- Material and hauling
Gravel, fill, topsoil, riprap, disposal, delivery distance, and truck access all affect the final scope.
- Finish requirements
Rough clearing costs differently from a compacted building pad, finished driveway, or precisely graded drainage area.