Yeah I watched this video about till he started praising all the good Services the government provided. Then I knew he was delusional and had no good information for me
Great video buddy! Definitely have to figure your cost for sure and yes it gets easier with experience. The pricing and bidding is very intimidating especially when you are just starting out. One thing I finally learned is it’s ok to not get jobs because you are to high. I use to want to get every job and all I was doing was losing money. Once you know what your machine can do it becomes easier to price things. Awesome video again thanks for sharing!
Hey Elite earthworks how would you like to grow your Excavation business by obtaining funding Im talking amounts up too 500k in as little as 48 hours no credit check you could use that to expand , advertise invest in equipment you name it bro so let me know if you interested
Hey, from central nc i just found your channel from a driveway wash out wth big ruts but my biggest problem is bidding on jobs ive had several ppl try to explain different ways on bidding on jobs and its difficult and frustrating and nervous and like someone else mentioned in a comment said i wanted to get every job i bided on and i absolutely hardly made money after paying my helper/gofer 😂 but i can pretty much do any type of job especially landscaping, tree work, remolding & grading but the equipment i dont have and i have and still do rent the equipment and ive made all kinds of mistakes land just bad judgement oh how long jobs would take ive had to go back to working in the electrical supply as a delivery driver but my heart and soul is working for myself i love it and while at my “real job” im constantly thanking about working for myself, but the biggest problem is bidding on jobs bc i dont want to over bid on a job and not get it and payn taxes here in nc 30% is ridiculous but i have always paid my taxes bc i was raised doing it the right way from my grandparents and my grandpa owned his on business for 50+ years and id love to do the same
You got me from the introduction and how you feel about newcomers to the industry. I get my Takeuchi TL8R2 with a number of attachments hopefully next month all going well. This really helped listening to your ideas. It’s the one thing I’ve been struggling with most in how to price jobs. Thanks mate from a newbie in Australia. Liked and subscribed!
I been in this type of business for well over 20 years, and bidding jobs has always been the most challenging factor involved. I enjoy and appreciate your videos and sharing information.
I really been thinking about it hard I even make CZcams videos on some the work I’ve done and been watching for a couple years and always come back to this video when I am discouraged or steer away thanks for the advice brother!
I started a dirt company last summer after I got my class A. I now have a single axle dump truck, 10 ton trailer, vio 55 and vio80. And a bunch of other equipment as I gave up dairy farming. So going into the commercial side I needed to learn a lot. I decided to talk with anyone that I knew with machines to get an idea of what there hourly rate was so I could be in line with them. Then I did time and materials for all of 2021. I learned a lot. What I can do in a day. The fact that a half day job to do is really a whole day. So I could get base line. This coming summer I am hoping to do much better on the profit side with bidding a job instead of just T and M.
I saw this video for the first time almost a year ago. I was brand new to excavator work at that time. It just popped back up in my suggested again and I rewatched it. Wow! I didn’t realize how much of your suggestions I have put into practice. I can tell from the experience I’ve gained over this year that this advice is spot on. I had almost no experience as an operator or a business owner when I got started and it was kinda by accident that it even happened. I watch quite a few different excavation channels and you’re one of the few that go into the business side of the business and I appreciate that a bunch. The operation techniques you give are great but I can honestly say I get the most value out of this type of information. Keep up the great work and great videos and again, thank you very much!
Thank you for your videos they have been a great help lately, I decided to Start my own company after being in the trades for 10 years and have been soaking up all the advice so thank you and keep doing what your doing!
Digginlife21 I have just found your videos I’m 23 getting started into the excavation business, and your videos have inspired me a lot I use to think I could never run my own business but watching your videos has brought me to a mindset that I can do it and be successful so thank you.
This is glorious, been searching for "job auction site software" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Biyabriel Alarming Pastures - (do a search on google ) ? Ive heard some decent things about it and my buddy got amazing success with it.
Hi David. Thanks for asking that question.. My name is David shields as well. Im from Michigan. It was cool hearing Digginlife21 say my name on you tube like that..lol. Small world. Hope you two get lot's of work. Love the video, thanks.
@@DigginLife21 I have 20 hours on my little John Deere 26g and I love it . I’ve done two jobs so far and looking forward to many more , thank you glad I found your videos 👍
This was a great video! The business and bidding aspect is the most intimidating part in my opinion on starting an excavating company but this video definitely helped
Just found your channel when this video popped up on my suggested feed. Great video, with lots of good info for a smaller, couple year old company like i have. Going to subscribe and looking forward to more videos from you in the future.
Appreciate all of your efforts in getting us going. Some specific examples and even a sample job bid would be awesome if you ever do another one. Thx 💪
I love your channel and how u give the positive motivation for people not to be o everwhelmd and just since watching ur channel u have taught me more than I already knew thank you
Hello from Western New York. Thanks for the very good advice. As a newer business owner it’s nice for someone to explain the behind the scenes details because in my neck of the woods there isn’t a lot of people sharing advice for success it’s like a big secret nobody is willing to give away. I’ll definitely subscribe and I look forward to more videos
Hey Jessie how is business going and I’m also from New York the city ti be exact , I’d like to check out your work does your company have a dedicated Instagram?
Thanks for the video! Very informative and helpful! I operated heavy equipment in the Air Force Reserves and currently work for a GC as an assistant Project manager but man I really love to operate equipment. My dream is to own an earthwork company and this video has given me a bit of a push to start something. Thanks a lot! Really like how you said, start out small (self operate) and work your way up.
Awesome info! Thank you very much! How did you get your business out there?? I’m currently workin as a mechanic planning on starting only on the weekends so I can keep my secure job. Thanks again
Hey brother, Good advice for people starting out. Always start out high until you learn what your overhead is. If we get every job we bid, then there is something wrong with our pricing. God Bless!!
@@DigginLife21 Yeah it will be a mini excavator for my size grading and hardscape jobs. I know it'll be a lot more efficient than my backhoe. Really appreciate your response and I'm learning from your videos.
Hello from Ireland I run a volov 140 track digger doing most farm and forestry I lot of my work is in bad ground or mountains so it hard to price jobs so a lot of time it day rate because of ground
Thanks for the video. Im looking to start from scratch. If i could get 15k a month in profit id be super happy. I need to dive into this some more to understand bidding and getting things arranged
Right now I'm debating on which I will need the most. A mini x in the 10-12k lb. Range or a skid steer of the same weight class. I feel like from renting both i always end up doing more with the mini outside of just moving material. In which case I would feel more justified renting a skid steer so assist instead of a mini as the assisted rental. Which is the most effective across the board from backyard work to land clearing in low land swamps to put in new culvert pipe type of work?
Good advice. Its better to lose a job because your bid is too high than to lose money because you under bid it and go bankrupt. My personal route was working for someone else and learning how long jobs would take and how to bid them, how much a machine costs to run per day, etc. I personally usually work for time and materials, naturally I charge for driving time to the job, going to pick up materials, or anything else that I have to do to complete the customer's job. I dont spend my own time or money without charging for it. My dad always said "if you're going to work for nothing then you might as well stay home". He was right. Good videos.
DigginLife 21 I gotcha bud and is it hard to get and if it’s under 30k then u don’t need a licenses? And thanks for answering my question and have a great day
I’d love to start a company up with a mini and skid loader but I don’t even know what type of jobs I’d do. I’ve mostly ever done commercial work like building trades, highway work, and pipeline work. It would be tough starting out with small jobs since I don’t have the knowledge of residential work.
watched this video a couple weeks ago and since then have watched all of your videos. I too am starting out in the business and have been searching and searching the last 2-3 years for a channel like this. This video earned you a thumbs up and subscribed to your channel. I really need help with the bidding jobs and reasons, but also truly knowing what material to use for roads/driveways/etc. also what kind of contract do you sign with a potential client? down payment? etc. also whats your take on track skidsteers? I too own a kubota tractor, mine is a GrandL6060. But a track skidsteer Harley rake/brush mowers/ different buckets/ heck they even have rollers out there for them, they do all the work you do, all the work i want to do? also love yanmar great machine, what excavator did you start out with? why string line vs transit? its hard to find honest help out there for bidding and prices, not many guys want to give you there prices or math, so thank you for this, and i look forward to your future videos. -Zack -NH
Hello Mcgraw how would you like to grow your Excavation business by obtaining funding Im talking amounts up too 500k in as little as 48 hours no credit check you could use that to expand , advertise invest in equipment you name it bro so let me know if you interested
Putting a money away each month for replacement of your machine or for growth to a bigger machine is a necessity. If you can keep yourself into newer machinery you will most likely be happier. Is what I found out to. Less breakdowns putting a guy through heavy equipment operation school was a great thing. When I decided to sell he now owns it. Maybe I shouldn't have been such a nice guy selling it all at current value but he was a fine employee and a great friend so I did what I could to help him out. Would I do it again you could bet my last dollar I would. If I would have been a better friend I would have stayed in contact with him.
Hi...Good advice using machine rental rate as baseline for machine ownership cost. I'm in rural Michigan, and trying to retire from my small welding business. I'm a farm 'kid' and have always been interested in operating dirt equipment. Dirt work around here is seasonal. Soil conditions all around this area are mostly flat and boulder free. I'd like to start a 1man seasonal gravel driveway repair biz with +-1ton truck, trailer, and hopefully 1 piece of dirt equipment. I don't have any desire to get a CDL at this stage, so under 26000lbs. What would be your advice regarding the most useful piece of gravel driveway repair equipment?
I just bought a Cat 308 which is also a 20k lb machine like yours I'm shopping for a pintle hitch trailer what size and length do you have and if you could do it over would you change anything? look forward to your advice love your channel.
Hi my question to you is hard to do there a special license or to be certified to do feel backs for brand new homes when they're doing sewage hookups from the house to the main
Dude awesome video man it's awesome that you are so close to me. My shop is in Charlotte NC but we work as west as rutherfordton. Just found your channel and I'm liking it so far
Just subscribed to the channel I really like your videos and am getting into the business. I have found my best jobs are the ones I am cleaning up other people’s mistakes. And that can bite you in the butt. I just found a giant bunch of worthless dirt full of roots and rocks on a job site I have to dig a hole and bury to get good dirt cost me a days work so about 1300 dollars.
Hey you guys sound very knowledgeable In respects to the field of excavation I commend you for that , are you only based out of Ohio ? And how can I check out your work ?
I was wondering if you had to get a cdl to move your equipment and what that took to accomplish(time,cost,etc) I am new to excavating and have only had my company for 9 months. Trying to figure out the most efficient ways to operate like everyone else. I appreciate you and others taking the time to share your thoughts on business operations.
Dude I’m interested in knowing how much has your company progressed from then to now 2022 I know your a driven ambitious dude so sky’s the limit with you
@@victorramirez7343 got my CDL, bought 2 dump trucks, a skid steer, a mini excavator, a full size excavator, and a bulldozer. Also was able to double the business income every year for the past three years! Lot of hard work, but it was the best choice I ever made!
@@ericshaw6030 wow that come up is very impressive Eric I commend you for your hard work and dedication , what that being said , you ever thought about obtaining funding in order to expand your business? I’m talking large amounts to the tune of 300k and up deposited to you in 48 hours dude no credit check all you need to qualify is proof of revenue and you got that
im scared of the big jobs too, i didnt know if you bid based on cubic yards of dirt moved or what? ive just stuck to land clearing using ecavator and burning the trees when i pull em out and everyone ive talked to that does it told me average was about 2800 per acres? but ive only been in business since aug.
If you are renting, sometimes it's best to go to a dealer not a rental shop and do an RPO (Rental Purchase Option). That way your rental payments go to buying the unit if you have it for longer then you thought you would.
Very good advice!! I am 19, starting out excavating on my own, got a 50g John Deere, amazing machine, any advice on where to start finding work?? So far I’m just doing some work on land that my dad has bought. Getting experience digging, clearing, finally got comfortable with the machine, know all my ways with it now!
I'm trying to figure out how to average $75 an hour with a mini x. It's a 4000 lb machine which is basically a micro excavator. I bought the machine about 3 months ago but having a hard time landing jobs. Don't know how to advertise it very well. Dallas Texas.
So my question is... I have a bobcat and a 2ton mini ex, both machines are say $225 retail from the rental close to me, I add say 5/hr fuel and I want 30/hr for my time. On an 8hr day that gives me $450 for both machines and $240 for my time that’s and $50 fuel that’s $92.50/hr. That sound right? Cause where I am, I’m finding it hard to get $80/hr, now when I rent an 8ton machine or bigger ppl don’t seem to have any problems paying $90-$100/hr Is it a perception thing maybe? Smaller, equipment not as valuable in the jobs they do? I went with smaller equipment to start only because it’s easier for mr to get it to a site. But now I’m starting to think I made a mistake and shoulda bought a 3-5 ton machine. What are your thoughts, great video btw
John, Teel’s Excavating & Johnny Snowplow Services great question. It can sometimes be a perception thing to a customer. It’s all about the kinds of jobs you really want to get into and what they are worth to an individual. I think your pricing is fair. You may want to try pricing by the jobs. I don’t think you made a mistake. You made a decision and now you’re gaining experience. You’re also not stuck if you find you need to sale or trade up to a bigger machine.
DigginLife 21 my equipment is older stuff, 90’s bobcat and 2011 mini ex, but they work tirelessly with only one small breakdown in 6 months so far. I feel my pricing is fair also but when I try to add a second operator/labourer to a job then ppl are like” no your too expensive, you can do it all yourself.” When I start getting pushback like that I say thank you, have a nice day, but when I’m in the larger stuff, they don’t have an issue having 2 operators lol ppl I tell ya. Thanks for the reply. Have a good one
Try making contacts with local builders and concrete guys. I own a concrete business and I used to sub out or rent machines for footings until I finally got my own. Heck I wish I could fire everyone and just do dirtwork and excavator work myself.
Hey hope all is well john how would you like to grow your Excavation business by obtaining funding Im talking amounts up too 500k in as little as 48 hours no credit check you could use that to expand , advertise invest in equipment you name it bro so let me know if you interested
thank you for the video, I am thinking about starting this type of work part-time, and as I build a hobby farm at the same time, am 65 years old and still feel young - AMERICAN STRONG
This may be an older video but the best way to not waste time is to screen your customers. Give them a ball park on what you think it will take to get the job done. Then if they are okay with the price, that is when you can go out and give them a final bid price. It pushes a lot of wasted time off your plate and keeps the tire kickers away.
Bro, become an LLC and pay yourself a reasonable salary fully taxed and said/medicare all that fun stuff, the rest you take as a draw. Get a good CPA, and it’ll be worth it and then some. Your business can run a 0.00 profit and contract out for your LLC (you).
Don’t be afraid to rent. I know that people don’t have over $80’000.00 to buy a new piece of equipment. We started back in 2010 and from this day we still rent certain pieces of equipment for instance we rent out a bulldozer y beacuse we will probably use it 2 times in one year
Hey man I've been watching alot of your videos and was thinking of starting my own excavation company any way you could give me a list of jobs that would be ideal to start me out
Gravel driveway grading, culvert installation, parking pads, cutting in house seats/homesite prep, pothole repair, sidewalk prep, new driveway construction, etc. Just think of anything dirt and gravel related.
The hardest part for me is the business aspect. I could use help with putting together a contract. Can you create a video to show us the paperwork involved with writing a contract?
I plan on starting up my own company, my first thoughts for start up are acquiring a skid steer and perform simple jobs I just have so much to learn, like what is the difference between Excavating and Landscaping?
Todd I would love to have a brush hog with a skiddsteer iam a very good skidsteek operated to do brush hogging for people I’m retired and would like to make extra money for my family but can’t afford to have a skidsteer only marking only the money I make what can I do shore would to do that kind of work for people that can’t get out to cut there land
You need to Buy a book called ( The Complete I.R.S. Tax Code ) cost about $210.00. This book will show you, you do not owe taxes and is written by the IRS
I think renting is the way to go,until I can get more future customers lined up .i like the small track hoes,but the general backhoe is hard to beat it does a lot more.
I thought that until i did it for 2 years and lost my butt off. I'm about to purchase my equipment because I lose alot of bids covering the cost of the rental fee, taxes for rentals and delivery of rentals.
I beg to differ ..I know how to spend my hard earned money better than Washington Elite's
If you own a business make sure this happens. I know it can be done. The rich don’t pay taxes
Yeah I watched this video about till he started praising all the good Services the government provided. Then I knew he was delusional and had no good information for me
Great video buddy! Definitely have to figure your cost for sure and yes it gets easier with experience. The pricing and bidding is very intimidating especially when you are just starting out. One thing I finally learned is it’s ok to not get jobs because you are to high. I use to want to get every job and all I was doing was losing money. Once you know what your machine can do it becomes easier to price things. Awesome video again thanks for sharing!
It means a lot to me for you to take time away from your day to comment on my videos🙏🏻
DigginLife 21 you bet buddy! You’ve got great videos, I’m trying to get caught up on them
Elite Earthworks LLC 🙏🏻
Hey Elite earthworks how would you like to grow your Excavation business by obtaining funding Im talking amounts up too 500k in as little as 48 hours no credit check you could use that to expand , advertise invest in equipment you name it bro so let me know if you interested
Hey, from central nc i just found your channel from a driveway wash out wth big ruts but my biggest problem is bidding on jobs ive had several ppl try to explain different ways on bidding on jobs and its difficult and frustrating and nervous and like someone else mentioned in a comment said i wanted to get every job i bided on and i absolutely hardly made money after paying my helper/gofer 😂 but i can pretty much do any type of job especially landscaping, tree work, remolding & grading but the equipment i dont have and i have and still do rent the equipment and ive made all kinds of mistakes land just bad judgement oh how long jobs would take ive had to go back to working in the electrical supply as a delivery driver but my heart and soul is working for myself i love it and while at my “real job” im constantly thanking about working for myself, but the biggest problem is bidding on jobs bc i dont want to over bid on a job and not get it and payn taxes here in nc 30% is ridiculous but i have always paid my taxes bc i was raised doing it the right way from my grandparents and my grandpa owned his on business for 50+ years and id love to do the same
You got me from the introduction and how you feel about newcomers to the industry. I get my Takeuchi TL8R2 with a number of attachments hopefully next month all going well.
This really helped listening to your ideas. It’s the one thing I’ve been struggling with most in how to price jobs. Thanks mate from a newbie in Australia. Liked and subscribed!
Just bid on a job this morning and was approved. Thank you for all you are doing here. If you are willing to work for it... it can be achieved.
I been in this type of business for well over 20 years, and bidding jobs has always been the most challenging factor involved. I enjoy and appreciate your videos and sharing information.
Is refreshing to hear your input on this important aspect of the industry.
I really been thinking about it hard I even make CZcams videos on some the work I’ve done and been watching for a couple years and always come back to this video when I am discouraged or steer away thanks for the advice brother!
I started a dirt company last summer after I got my class A. I now have a single axle dump truck, 10 ton trailer, vio 55 and vio80. And a bunch of other equipment as I gave up dairy farming.
So going into the commercial side I needed to learn a lot. I decided to talk with anyone that I knew with machines to get an idea of what there hourly rate was so I could be in line with them.
Then I did time and materials for all of 2021. I learned a lot. What I can do in a day. The fact that a half day job to do is really a whole day. So I could get base line. This coming summer I am hoping to do much better on the profit side with bidding a job instead of just T and M.
I saw this video for the first time almost a year ago. I was brand new to excavator work at that time. It just popped back up in my suggested again and I rewatched it. Wow! I didn’t realize how much of your suggestions I have put into practice. I can tell from the experience I’ve gained over this year that this advice is spot on.
I had almost no experience as an operator or a business owner when I got started and it was kinda by accident that it even happened. I watch quite a few different excavation channels and you’re one of the few that go into the business side of the business and I appreciate that a bunch. The operation techniques you give are great but I can honestly say I get the most value out of this type of information.
Keep up the great work and great videos and again, thank you very much!
@@BigOrangeTractors could you ask a little more specific question? I got no secrets at all!😉
Thank you for your videos they have been a great help lately, I decided to Start my own company after being in the trades for 10 years and have been soaking up all the advice so thank you and keep doing what your doing!
This is the first video I watched that he made and he made me feel like it was a one on one conversation keep up the good work mate 👍
Digginlife21 I have just found your videos I’m 23 getting started into the excavation business, and your videos have inspired me a lot I use to think I could never run my own business but watching your videos has brought me to a mindset that I can do it and be successful so thank you.
How's the business going
Drove machines most of my life , good advice ! Maybe add a video about transporting the machine around and the costs of that would be good !
Mike Bills great video idea Mike!!!! I’ll definitely do that. Thanks for watching🙏🏻
This is glorious, been searching for "job auction site software" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Biyabriel Alarming Pastures - (do a search on google ) ? Ive heard some decent things about it and my buddy got amazing success with it.
Can't tell you how much I appreciate this mate. Thanks.
Anytime🙏🏻
Hi David. Thanks for asking that question.. My name is David shields as well. Im from Michigan. It was cool hearing Digginlife21 say my name on you tube like that..lol. Small world. Hope you two get lot's of work. Love the video, thanks.
That was an awesome video! I really like your channel and the great advice.
Thank you for doing these videos so helpful!
Great video! I always say it's all about the numbers!
Dirt Brute always!!!
Thank you sir I’m a bit new on the excavator but this info will be a big help for my little property maintenance business 👍
Glad to help Danny!!! I hope you enjoy running one as much as I do
@@DigginLife21 I have 20 hours on my little John Deere 26g and I love it . I’ve done two jobs so far and looking forward to many more , thank you glad I found your videos 👍
I like the new intro. I really get alot from your videos. It seems like most people don't talk about the finances. Appreciate it
Thanks for commenting and giving feed back. I’m grateful to have ya here🙏🏻
Awesome sauce I just started my own contracting company and this information is very helpful ty
This was a great video! The business and bidding aspect is the most intimidating part in my opinion on starting an excavating company but this video definitely helped
Sounds like some good advice! Even if you own your equipment if it breaks down its nice to have that rental money to finish the job if necessary.
Just found your channel when this video popped up on my suggested feed. Great video, with lots of good info for a smaller, couple year old company like i have. Going to subscribe and looking forward to more videos from you in the future.
pjs5191 thanks for being here🙏🏻
Appreciate all of your efforts in getting us going. Some specific examples and even a sample job bid would be awesome if you ever do another one. Thx 💪
Great stuff. Your explanation makes it all seem less daunting. Good take on taxes, too.
Thanks for this info on the rental rates, didn’t think of that
Great advice !
Great video. Glad I found your channel.
Thanks for this video been thinking about starting a small excavating company with my brother
I love your channel and how u give the positive motivation for people not to be o everwhelmd and just since watching ur channel u have taught me more than I already knew thank you
Hello from Western New York. Thanks for the very good advice. As a newer business owner it’s nice for someone to explain the behind the scenes details because in my neck of the woods there isn’t a lot of people sharing advice for success it’s like a big secret nobody is willing to give away. I’ll definitely subscribe and I look forward to more videos
thanks for watching
Hey Jessie how is business going and I’m also from New York the city ti be exact , I’d like to check out your work does your company have a dedicated Instagram?
The quality of your videos has increased to perfect Brother. Have a great day.
Really enjoyed the video and thank you for sharing your knowledge on this subject!
Jake Duffin anytime. Thanks for watching🙏🏻
@@DigginLife21 your welcome
Thanks for the video! Very informative and helpful! I operated heavy equipment in the Air Force Reserves and currently work for a GC as an assistant Project manager but man I really love to operate equipment. My dream is to own an earthwork company and this video has given me a bit of a push to start something. Thanks a lot! Really like how you said, start out small (self operate) and work your way up.
Best of luck. Makes it easier to be successful if you really enjoy this stuff
love your Video they helped me out a lot
Awesome info! Thank you very much! How did you get your business out there?? I’m currently workin as a mechanic planning on starting only on the weekends so I can keep my secure job. Thanks again
Thanks for the advice!
New member to the Chanel
Thanks great advice!
Thanks for sharing....good video 👍
Hey brother, Good advice for people starting out. Always start out high until you learn what your overhead is. If we get every job we bid, then there is something wrong with our pricing.
God Bless!!
Hey bro what state are you based out of and how can I check out your work are their any before and after images online ?
Great vidoe!!
Good video I do brushhog mowing work with tractor and have lost jobs due to being to high but you have to cover yourself. Bottom line
Great video. Can you make equipment costing 2.0 where you get into more detail for example insurance costs, etc.
Hey Tim I can help you finance yellow iron heavy duty equipment if your ever interested
I forgot to comment on your video I subscribed it was a really good video lot of info and I appreciate that thank you
You seem like a great guy. I loved living in the south. I'm back in California. Ugh lol
Great video, some good advice to think about. I have experience operating but not the business side much.
Thanks Dale
I love your videos brother!! you've probably mentioned this before, but do you have employees? Or are you a "one man band"? keep it up!
So glad I found your channel. I have a lot of pieces of equipment but not an excavator. Which I'm planning on being my next purchase.
Tim you’ll not regret it!!! An excavator is a must. Even if it’s a fairly small one🙏🏻
@@DigginLife21
Yeah it will be a mini excavator for my size grading and hardscape jobs. I know it'll be a lot more efficient than my backhoe. Really appreciate your response and I'm learning from your videos.
Tim thanks for watching🙏🏻
Hello from Ireland I run a volov 140 track digger doing most farm and forestry I lot of my work is in bad ground or mountains so it hard to price jobs so a lot of time it day rate because of ground
Thanks for the video. Im looking to start from scratch. If i could get 15k a month in profit id be super happy. I need to dive into this some more to understand bidding and getting things arranged
Right now I'm debating on which I will need the most. A mini x in the 10-12k lb. Range or a skid steer of the same weight class. I feel like from renting both i always end up doing more with the mini outside of just moving material. In which case I would feel more justified renting a skid steer so assist instead of a mini as the assisted rental. Which is the most effective across the board from backyard work to land clearing in low land swamps to put in new culvert pipe type of work?
Good stuff!
Wish I knew this when I was younger. Cheers
Good advice. Its better to lose a job because your bid is too high than to lose money because you under bid it and go bankrupt. My personal route was working for someone else and learning how long jobs would take and how to bid them, how much a machine costs to run per day, etc. I personally usually work for time and materials, naturally I charge for driving time to the job, going to pick up materials, or anything else that I have to do to complete the customer's job. I dont spend my own time or money without charging for it. My dad always said "if you're going to work for nothing then you might as well stay home". He was right. Good videos.
Thanks for watching 🙏🏻
Thanks for the video
Following from hardeeville sc
Really great video. I’ll subscribe.
Ty McCall thanks Ty!!! Welcome to the family
Hey just found your channel a few days ago really like that your aiming at newbies to excavating, i like the simple and positive approach keep it up!
I’m interested in the work, but I need to find a transition into the field.
Very well said 👍👍👍
Thanks for commenting🙏🏻
I like watching your videos and I was woundering what all licenses do u need for a excavation? And hope y’all have a great Friday
In NC you have to get a GC license if the project is over $30k
DigginLife 21 I gotcha bud and is it hard to get and if it’s under 30k then u don’t need a licenses? And thanks for answering my question and have a great day
I’d love to start a company up with a mini and skid loader but I don’t even know what type of jobs I’d do. I’ve mostly ever done commercial work like building trades, highway work, and pipeline work. It would be tough starting out with small jobs since I don’t have the knowledge of residential work.
Anthony A what area do you live in?
DigginLife 18 I’m from Pittsburgh pa. I see you posted the video in NC. I was just there working a pipeline job.
Can you make a video about finding consistent work? I’m 23 started my own thing started out strong now it’s been very slow the past couple months
jake bridges don’t be disheartened. We all slow down this time of year. It’ll pick up a lot come April.
watched this video a couple weeks ago and since then have watched all of your videos. I too am starting out in the business and have been searching and searching the last 2-3 years for a channel like this. This video earned you a thumbs up and subscribed to your channel. I really need help with the bidding jobs and reasons, but also truly knowing what material to use for roads/driveways/etc. also what kind of contract do you sign with a potential client? down payment? etc. also whats your take on track skidsteers? I too own a kubota tractor, mine is a GrandL6060. But a track skidsteer Harley rake/brush mowers/ different buckets/ heck they even have rollers out there for them, they do all the work you do, all the work i want to do? also love yanmar great machine, what excavator did you start out with? why string line vs transit? its hard to find honest help out there for bidding and prices, not many guys want to give you there prices or math, so thank you for this, and i look forward to your future videos.
-Zack -NH
Where you operating out of?
@@joshbrienen5133 New Hampshire. Central NH
Hello Mcgraw how would you like to grow your Excavation business by obtaining funding Im talking amounts up too 500k in as little as 48 hours no credit check you could use that to expand , advertise invest in equipment you name it bro so let me know if you interested
Putting a money away each month for replacement of your machine or for growth to a bigger machine is a necessity. If you can keep yourself into newer machinery you will most likely be happier. Is what I found out to. Less breakdowns putting a guy through heavy equipment operation school was a great thing. When I decided to sell he now owns it. Maybe I shouldn't have been such a nice guy selling it all at current value but he was a fine employee and a great friend so I did what I could to help him out. Would I do it again you could bet my last dollar I would. If I would have been a better friend I would have stayed in contact with him.
Hi...Good advice using machine rental rate as baseline for machine ownership cost. I'm in rural Michigan, and trying to retire from my small welding business. I'm a farm 'kid' and have always been interested in operating dirt equipment. Dirt work around here is seasonal. Soil conditions all around this area are mostly flat and boulder free.
I'd like to start a 1man seasonal gravel driveway repair biz with +-1ton truck, trailer, and hopefully 1 piece of dirt equipment. I don't have any desire to get a CDL at this stage, so under 26000lbs. What would be your advice regarding the most useful piece of gravel driveway repair equipment?
Terry Lutke I’d say a 35 hp tractor with loader and box blade.
Makes sense...plenty of loader tractors for sale around here, and farm equip dealerships. Thanks!
Nice 👍
Who do you use for insurance?
Do you use contracts?
thanks so much for this vid
My pleasure Rich!!! Thanks for commenting
I just bought a Cat 308 which is also a 20k lb machine like yours I'm shopping for a pintle hitch trailer what size and length do you have and if you could do it over would you change anything? look forward to your advice love your channel.
Mine is a 25 foot 10 ton. I would definitely get an airbrake trailer next time
Hi my question to you is hard to do there a special license or to be certified to do feel backs for brand new homes when they're doing sewage hookups from the house to the main
Dude awesome video man it's awesome that you are so close to me. My shop is in Charlotte NC but we work as west as rutherfordton. Just found your channel and I'm liking it so far
Bambi's Outdoor Service thanks for watching🙏🏻
Dude where can I check out your work man do you have Instagram ?
Just subscribed to the channel I really like your videos and am getting into the business. I have found my best jobs are the ones I am cleaning up other people’s mistakes. And that can bite you in the butt. I just found a giant bunch of worthless dirt full of roots and rocks on a job site I have to dig a hole and bury to get good dirt cost me a days work so about 1300 dollars.
Hey you guys sound very knowledgeable In respects to the field of excavation I commend you for that , are you only based out of Ohio ? And how can I check out your work ?
I was wondering if you had to get a cdl to move your equipment and what that took to accomplish(time,cost,etc) I am new to excavating and have only had my company for 9 months. Trying to figure out the most efficient ways to operate like everyone else. I appreciate you and others taking the time to share your thoughts on business operations.
You're right my friend. We can't price our jobs to suit everyone. Thanks for watching🙏🏻
Dude I’m interested in knowing how much has your company progressed from then to now 2022 I know your a driven ambitious dude so sky’s the limit with you
@@victorramirez7343 got my CDL, bought 2 dump trucks, a skid steer, a mini excavator, a full size excavator, and a bulldozer. Also was able to double the business income every year for the past three years! Lot of hard work, but it was the best choice I ever made!
@@ericshaw6030 wow that come up is very impressive Eric I commend you for your hard work and dedication , what that being said , you ever thought about obtaining funding in order to expand your business? I’m talking large amounts to the tune of 300k and up deposited to you in 48 hours dude no credit check all you need to qualify is proof of revenue and you got that
im scared of the big jobs too, i didnt know if you bid based on cubic yards of dirt moved or what? ive just stuck to land clearing using ecavator and burning the trees when i pull em out and everyone ive talked to that does it told me average was about 2800 per acres? but ive only been in business since aug.
If you are renting, sometimes it's best to go to a dealer not a rental shop and do an RPO (Rental Purchase Option). That way your rental payments go to buying the unit if you have it for longer then you thought you would.
Good advice
good video!
Victor Chaname thanks for watching 🙏🏻
I came back to this video again. Around the 7:15 mark is just what I needed to hear! Thanks @digginlife21
I’m here for ya
Very good advice!! I am 19, starting out excavating on my own, got a 50g John Deere, amazing machine, any advice on where to start finding work?? So far I’m just doing some work on land that my dad has bought. Getting experience digging, clearing, finally got comfortable with the machine, know all my ways with it now!
I'm trying to figure out how to average $75 an hour with a mini x. It's a 4000 lb machine which is basically a micro excavator. I bought the machine about 3 months ago but having a hard time landing jobs. Don't know how to advertise it very well. Dallas Texas.
So my question is... I have a bobcat and a 2ton mini ex, both machines are say $225 retail from the rental close to me, I add say 5/hr fuel and I want 30/hr for my time. On an 8hr day that gives me $450 for both machines and $240 for my time that’s and $50 fuel that’s $92.50/hr. That sound right? Cause where I am, I’m finding it hard to get $80/hr, now when I rent an 8ton machine or bigger ppl don’t seem to have any problems paying $90-$100/hr Is it a perception thing maybe? Smaller, equipment not as valuable in the jobs they do? I went with smaller equipment to start only because it’s easier for mr to get it to a site. But now I’m starting to think I made a mistake and shoulda bought a 3-5 ton machine. What are your thoughts, great video btw
John, Teel’s Excavating & Johnny Snowplow Services great question. It can sometimes be a perception thing to a customer. It’s all about the kinds of jobs you really want to get into and what they are worth to an individual. I think your pricing is fair. You may want to try pricing by the jobs. I don’t think you made a mistake. You made a decision and now you’re gaining experience. You’re also not stuck if you find you need to sale or trade up to a bigger machine.
DigginLife 21 my equipment is older stuff, 90’s bobcat and 2011 mini ex, but they work tirelessly with only one small breakdown in 6 months so far. I feel my pricing is fair also but when I try to add a second operator/labourer to a job then ppl are like” no your too expensive, you can do it all yourself.” When I start getting pushback like that I say thank you, have a nice day, but when I’m in the larger stuff, they don’t have an issue having 2 operators lol ppl I tell ya. Thanks for the reply. Have a good one
Try making contacts with local builders and concrete guys. I own a concrete business and I used to sub out or rent machines for footings until I finally got my own. Heck I wish I could fire everyone and just do dirtwork and excavator work myself.
Hey hope all is well john how would you like to grow your Excavation business by obtaining funding Im talking amounts up too 500k in as little as 48 hours no credit check you could use that to expand , advertise invest in equipment you name it bro so let me know if you interested
What kind of excavator is it you're sittimg in? Looks to have a giant of a cab on it?
mhazel9551 it’s Yanmar Vio 80. Looks big mostly because because of the wide camera angle.
@@DigginLife21 And you are 5'9" tall .. hey you disclosed that in one of your videos ... not me. haha.
Hey Have you heard of the 60/40 rule? Its my personal number theory
How to you get your name out there and/ or building a customer base
Are you doing any hiring?? How far are you from Greeneville TN
MATT MATT videos not hiring here. About an hour and a half.
thank you for the video, I am thinking about starting this type of work part-time, and as I build a hobby farm at the same time, am 65 years old and still feel young - AMERICAN STRONG
Have fun Bill!!!
This may be an older video but the best way to not waste time is to screen your customers. Give them a ball park on what you think it will take to get the job done. Then if they are okay with the price, that is when you can go out and give them a final bid price. It pushes a lot of wasted time off your plate and keeps the tire kickers away.
Absolutely. We definitely try to do that most of the time.
I always do this. Couldn’t agree more
Bro, become an LLC and pay yourself a reasonable salary fully taxed and said/medicare all that fun stuff, the rest you take as a draw. Get a good CPA, and it’ll be worth it and then some. Your business can run a 0.00 profit and contract out for your LLC (you).
Don’t be afraid to rent. I know that people don’t have over $80’000.00 to buy a new piece of equipment. We started back in 2010 and from this day we still rent certain pieces of equipment for instance we rent out a bulldozer y beacuse we will probably use it 2 times in one year
Great point
Hey man I've been watching alot of your videos and was thinking of starting my own excavation company any way you could give me a list of jobs that would be ideal to start me out
Gravel driveway grading, culvert installation, parking pads, cutting in house seats/homesite prep, pothole repair, sidewalk prep, new driveway construction, etc. Just think of anything dirt and gravel related.
Where do apply for bids
The hardest part for me is the business aspect. I could use help with putting together a contract. Can you create a video to show us the paperwork involved with writing a contract?
I’ll try to do that for ya
Greatly appreciated.
I plan on starting up my own company, my first thoughts for start up are acquiring a skid steer and perform simple jobs I just have so much to learn, like what is the difference between Excavating and Landscaping?
Excavation is the process of moving material from one area to another. Landscaping refers to how you finish the area after grading
Thanks
Great explanation bro couldn’t have said it better 👌🏽
What do you pay yourself per hour?
Todd I would love to have a brush hog with a skiddsteer iam a very good skidsteek operated to do brush hogging for people I’m retired and would like to make extra money for my family but can’t afford to have a skidsteer only marking only the money I make what can I do shore would to do that kind of work for people that can’t get out to cut there land
You could always rent . That’s how I got started
I charge $150 an hour me and my excavator and that's a pretty good price
I am trying to get excavator 75g johndre
You need to Buy a book called ( The Complete I.R.S. Tax Code ) cost about $210.00. This book will show you, you do not owe taxes and is written by the IRS
I think renting is the way to go,until I can get more future customers lined up .i like the small track hoes,but the general backhoe is hard to beat it does a lot more.
I thought that until i did it for 2 years and lost my butt off. I'm about to purchase my equipment because I lose alot of bids covering the cost of the rental fee, taxes for rentals and delivery of rentals.
Put all sorts of how to
Dirtman707 thanks for watching Dirtman🙏🏻