Earth moving businesses move mountains, literally and figuratively. They are the ones who prepare land for construction, build roads and bridges, and mine for resources. If you have a construction project in the works, it’s likely that you’ll need to hire a reputable earth moving business.

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about earth moving businesses, including:

• What tasks can they take care of
• The most common earth moving issues
• The cost of contracting an earth moving business
• How to hire a reputable local earth moving business 
• Benefits of earth moving businesses
• Getting quotes from earth moving businesses near you

What tasks can earth moving businesses take care of?

Earth moving businesses can handle a wide range of tasks, including:

• Site preparation
• Excavation
• Land grading
• Demolition
• Backfilling
• Compaction
• Drainage
• Road construction
• Landscaping

Read more: What is landscape construction?

Most common earth moving issues

One of the most common challenges that earth moving businesses face is dealing with hazardous materials. Hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, and mould can be found in many older buildings and construction sites. However, earth moving professionals are trained to safely remove and dispose of hazardous materials to protect construction workers and the public.

Another common challenge they face is working in difficult conditions. They often have to work in remote areas, in bad weather, and on uneven terrain. They also have to be able to work quickly and efficiently to meet tight deadlines.

Cost of contracting an earth moving business

Earth moving businesses charge between $80 and $100 per hour for their services, depending on the size, complexity, and location of the job, as well as the equipment and manpower required. Expect to pay more for specialised equipment and soil removal.

Land clearing for residential properties is generally charged per cubic metre, and is priced between $50 and $150 per m3. House foundation excavations typically cost between $1,000 and $15,000.

Read more: How much does excavation cost?

How to hire a reputable local earth moving business

To find the best earth moving business for your needs, it's crucial to be prepared, informed and ready to ask the right questions.

Key questions include:

• What is your experience with earth moving projects similar to mine?
• What is your estimated timeline for completion of the project?
• What safety measures do you have in place?
• How will you minimise environmental impact?
• How will you dispose of hazardous materials?

This is also an opportunity to ask about the specifics of your project. For example, if you are building a new home, you may want to ask about the contractor's experience with preparing land for new construction. Or, if you are excavating a foundation, you may want to ask about the contractor's experience with excavating in difficult soil conditions.

Benefits of earth moving businesses

Earth moving businesses can help ensure the safety and success of your construction project. Their expertise and equipment are essential for removing hazards such as asbestos and lead, and for preparing the land for the foundation of the new structure.

Hiring a professional earth mover also gives you peace of mind knowing that your project is set up for success. Their methods ensure a strong and stable foundation, which is essential for the safety and longevity of your structure.

Getting quotes for an earth moving business

The best way to get quotes for an earth moving business is to contact multiple companies. You can find companies in your area by searching online through the hipages directory. Be sure to provide the businesses with as much information as possible about your job, such as the type of work you need done, the size and scope of the job, and your budget.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.