How Much to Charge for Plowing Snow in Construction
Snow removal is an essential service in many regions, especially in areas with harsh winters. For construction companies and contractors, snow plowing is often an additional revenue stream during the off-season. Knowing how much to charge for plowing snow is critical to balancing fair pricing, covering costs, and ensuring profitability.
This guide will break down the factors that affect snow plowing costs, typical pricing models, regional differences, and tips for setting competitive rates.
Why Snow Plowing Matters in Construction
In the construction industry, snow plowing plays a vital role in:
- Keeping job sites accessible during winter.
- Ensuring safety for workers and heavy machinery.
- Helping property owners maintain driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.
- Providing contractors with a reliable source of income when traditional construction projects slow down.
Factors That Affect Snow Plowing Charges
Several factors influence how much you should charge for plowing snow in construction:
- Size of the Area
- Residential driveways are cheaper compared to large commercial lots.
- Bigger areas require more time, fuel, and equipment.
- Amount of Snowfall
- Light snow (under 2 inches) is quicker to clear.
- Heavy snow or blizzards require multiple passes and higher costs.
- Type of Equipment Used
- Pickup trucks with plows, skid steers, and loaders vary in cost to operate.
- Fuel, maintenance, and wear-and-tear must be factored in.
- Frequency of Service
- One-time plowing charges are higher per visit.
- Seasonal contracts provide steady income and discounted per-service rates.
- Geographic Location
- Areas with frequent snowfall (e.g., New England, Midwest) typically have more competitive but slightly higher prices.
- Warmer regions charge premium rates since snow removal is less common.
- Surface Conditions
- Flat, wide-open spaces are easier to plow.
- Narrow driveways, steep slopes, or obstacles (trees, curbs, fencing) take more time and skill.
Common Pricing Models for Snow Plowing
1. Per Push (Per Visit) Pricing
- Customers are billed each time their driveway or lot is plowed.
- Common for residential services.
Typical Rate:
- Driveway: $30 – $70 per push
- Commercial lot: $100 – $500 per push, depending on size
2. Per Inch Pricing
- Prices increase with the depth of snowfall.
- Helps account for heavy storms requiring more work.
Example Rate Structure:
- 1–3 inches: $40–$75
- 3–6 inches: $75–$125
- 6–12 inches: $125–$200+
3. Seasonal Contract Pricing
- Customers pay a flat rate for the entire winter season.
- Best for homeowners and businesses wanting predictable costs.
Typical Range:
- Residential contracts: $300 – $600 per season
- Commercial contracts: $2,000 – $10,000+ per season
4. Hourly Pricing
- Customers are billed based on time spent plowing.
- Works well for large commercial jobs.
Average Hourly Rates:
- $50 – $150 per hour, depending on equipment and location
Average Snow Plowing Costs
Here’s a breakdown of typical snow plowing charges:
| Service Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Residential driveway (per push) | $30 – $70 |
| Commercial lot (per push) | $100 – $500 |
| Seasonal residential contract | $300 – $600 |
| Seasonal commercial contract | $2,000 – $10,000+ |
| Hourly rate for equipment | $50 – $150 per hour |
Tips for Setting Competitive Snow Plowing Rates
- Know your costs: Factor in fuel, labor, maintenance, and insurance.
- Research local rates: Check competitor pricing in your area.
- Offer tiered pricing: Provide per-visit, per-inch, and seasonal options.
- Use contracts: Seasonal contracts ensure steady income even during light winters.
- Charge for extras: Sidewalk clearing, salting, and hauling snow should be priced separately.
Conclusion
Determining how much to charge for plowing snow in construction depends on factors like property size, snowfall levels, location, and customer preferences. Most contractors charge $30–$70 per driveway push or $50–$150 per hour for commercial services, with seasonal contracts providing stable earnings. By balancing fair rates with operating costs, contractors can make snow plowing a profitable part of their construction business.
FAQs About Snow Plowing Charges in Construction
Q1. How much should I charge for plowing a residential driveway?
Most contractors charge $30–$70 per push, depending on length and width.
Q2. Do I need a seasonal contract or per-push pricing?
Seasonal contracts offer stability for both customers and contractors, while per-push pricing is better for one-time or occasional services.
Q3. How do commercial snow plowing costs differ from residential?
Commercial lots are larger and take more time, typically costing $100–$500 per push or several thousand dollars per season.
Q4. Should I charge extra for salting and de-icing?
Yes. Salting, sanding, and de-icing are usually billed separately, often $10–$50 extra per application.
Q5. Is snow plowing profitable for construction companies?
Yes. Snow plowing provides an excellent winter revenue stream, especially for companies with idle equipment during off-season construction.
Q6. How do I calculate seasonal contract pricing?
Estimate the number of visits per season, multiply by per-visit costs, and offer a discounted package rate.
Q7. How much can I make plowing snow in one season?
Depending on contracts and workload, small contractors may earn $5,000–$20,000 per season, while larger operations can earn much more.
