"All I Want is a Price per Foot"

August 29th, 2024

Underground Systems often gets requests for a "per-foot price" estimate without detailed project information. While some other contractors may offer this, it's important to question the accuracy and reliability of such estimates. 

This is because the cost of an HDD project is influenced by multiple variables. Factors such as those listed below, must be carefully considered to determine a fair and accurate price. 

Location:

• Driving distance from main office

• Site accessibility (e.g., open land, urban areas, downtown congested areas)

• Bore path conditions (e.g., concrete, walls, water, elevation changes)

• Existing underground utilities to be verified and exposed before you can legally proceed with drilling   

• Road crossings (traffic control requirements)

• Site Type (commercial, residential, industrial, multi homes)

• Additional security protocols or after hour work requirements

Size of conduit or pipe:

• Conduit/pipe size and type

• Larger size conduit/pipe require larger size drills

• Mud/Slurry removal and disposal. Mud/Slurry is created when drilling.

• Inclusion of mule tape or tracer wire

Distance of the bore:

• Short-distance bores may fall under the “Minimum Price” charge for a crew to be mobilized.

• Longer bores may receive a discount per foot

• Multiple equipment set ups

Other factors that may influence pricing include soil conditions, environmental regulations, and any additional services or equipment requested by the customer. 

HDD pricing is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. To ensure a just and transparent cost, various factors must be weighed. The bottom line: it's essential to discuss your specific project needs with an experienced Project Manager to obtain an accurate, customized and complete price estimate.