Last Updated on December 13, 2023
Finding and investing in the perfect dump truck is vital for construction, transportation, and mining companies. The drivers who operate the equipment need something efficient and reliable, but how much does a dump truck cost? Understanding the various costs associated with purchasing this type of heavy equipment will help you plan which type is best to get, when you should buy, and whether operating a dump truck is even worth the expense. Let’s explore everything from initial purchasing price to operating expenses, and the factors influencing these costs for both new and used dump trucks. Here’s the ultimate comparison: new vs. used dump truck costs explained!
How Much Do Dump Trucks Cost?
New vs. Used Dump Trucks
One important consideration is choosing between a new or used dump truck, which significantly impacts the initial cost. Standard used dump trucks generally range from $30,000 to $115,000. In contrast, new models often start at and exceed $100,000, with prices reaching up to and past $200,000. The specific model year, features, brand, and condition also play a crucial role in determining price.
2010-2013 Models
My Little Salesman records that the average cost of a dump truck from these model years is $89,722
2014-2017 Models
They indicate that a dump truck from this period has an average price of $123,750.
2018-2021 Models
And on average, they say that used dump trucks from these years cost approximately $179,450.
2023 Models
Also according to My Little Salesman, in 2023 a new standard dump truck is generally priced between $100,000 and $200,000. Larger models with additional features can exceed $250,000. They list the average cost of a new model at $176,158 and the average cost of a used one is approximately $134,586.
2024 Trends
According to Expert Market Research, their findings indicate that the “global dump truck market size reached a value of USD 52.24 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 9.1% over the 2024-2032 period.” They project that the industry growth will be a result of government spending. The government has not increased spending on dump trucks, but has increased spending on infrastructure in the past 2 years. This will likely drive construction companies to grow their fleets. And consequently, all of this means higher prices for those hoping to procure their own vehicle.
Medium Duty Trucks
Most trucks in this category, if they’re used, sell for somewhere between $20,000 to $60,000. However, there are a few lower-priced options around $15,000, although they may have significant mileage and wear and tear. Those will little usage and are more modern will cost around $90,000.

Heavy Duty Trucks
The price range for used heavy duty trucks falls between $30,000 and $80,000. Relatively new trucks are cost between $150,000 and $270,000.
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Brand Model and Configuration
Different manufacturers offer various pricing for their models too. For example, a new Kenworth tri-axle dump truck costs around $250,000, but you could find used tri-axles of the same brand around $150,000. Similarly, Mack and Peterbilt’s new model trucks cost about $275,000 and $300,000 and used models are sold at lower prices.
Aside from brand, the type of vehicle also matters. Standard models like tri-axle dumps offer versatility and are priced based on condition, ranging from $15,000 to $100,000 for used models and $200,000 to $250,000 for new ones. End dump trucks, with their unique power unit and trailer options, also vary in cost. For instance, an end dump trailer alone can cost around $60,000.
Additional Features and Customization
Whether you’re opting for a standard dump truck or looking into side dump trucks, you should also be asking yourself these sorts of questions:
Am I transporting heavy loads?
What’s my ideal payload capacity?
Does my job consist of working on construction sites or within a quarry?
How should my truck be equipped to best perform the job?
Custom features and additional capabilities drive up the cost, but make transporting materials and dumping much easier. Options include advanced hydraulic systems, higher capacity beds, and specialized materials like high-strength steel for the body. The level of customization required to meet specific operational needs will reflect in the total cost of the vehicle, but these are all of these are key factors to consider when making an investment. Spend some time taking note of organizational needs and your budget, then make that with the right truck.
Financing Options and Credit Impact
Deciding to pay through financing will add to the total cost. Interest rates can come as low as 5.49-5.9% depending on the buyer’s credit score. In addition to that, the other terms of the loan such as the payment period length and down payment will be important.

Operating Costs
Fuel Expenses
Fuel consumption is a significant operating cost for dump trucks. On average, they drive about 3,000 miles a week and get 5-6 miles every gallon. As of December 6, 2023, the AAA lists $3.216 as the average price per gallon. That equals $1,920 or $1,600 per week.
Insurance Costs
Insurance is another crucial operating expense, totaling up to $6,000-$20,000 per year depending on the type of dump truck.
Maintenance and Tires
Regular maintenance and tire replacement are essential for safety and efficiency when operating a dump truck. The cost of tires alone can be substantial, with prices reaching above $1,000 per tire. Consequently, for standard tri-axle models, six tires will total around $6,000, and for semi-trailer end dumps, the cost can go up to $10,000! Aside from tires, just like everyday cars, eventually dump trucks require repairs to the engine, cab, brakes, and dump body. That means you’re paying around $4,000 minimum for a standard dump truck, plus other things.
Inspection Costs
For those not mechanically inclined to inspect used dump trucks, inspection costs can reach up to $300. We recommended using a trusted mechanic to ensure any potential issues are caught before purchase.

Maximizing Investment and Utilization
Leveraging Technology
Using tools like TRUX, a cloud-based dump truck logistics platform, can enhance the return on investment when owning one of these vehicles. TRUX helps increase utilization, offering visibility into available jobs in the area and facilitating more strategic fleet management.
Strategic Business Planning
If you’re an owner-operator, you need to strategize how you go about business. This includes considering the frequency of jobs and the types of materials you haul, such as gravel, sand, or dirt. Likewise, think about the geographical area of operation.

Evaluating the Financial Viability of Owning a Dump Truck
If you’re still unsure about the utility of owning a dump truck, here’s an overview for evaluating financial viability. As a frame of reference, here’s an approximate amount of what the government spent on used and new dump trucks in recent years:
2018 – $286 million
2019 – $262 million
2020 -$188 million
2021 – $265 million
2022 – $254 million
2023 – $247 million
The dip in 2020 is explained by COVID, which resulted in paused projects and backorders. The year after is proof of how it has bounced back and remained steady.
Using those dump trucks, here are the aproximate funds the government put toward infrastructure, construction, roads, and highways:
2018 – $131 billion
2019 – $142 billion
2020 – $156 billion
2021 – $180 billion
2022 – $250 billion
2023 – $214 billion
Revenue Generation
The primary consideration for assessing profitability is revenue generation. How much companies earn will depend on factors like service demand, the types of materials transported, and the frequency of available jobs. As an owner operator, you can engage with various projects including construction, mining, and large-scale landscaping. Each of these provides steady income streams.
Operational Costs
Balancing revenue with operational costs is crucial. Fuel, insurance, maintenance, and any loans, will all take away from your earnings. The only way to be profitable is to ensure more money is coming in than going out.
Market Conditions
Market conditions also play a significant role in the profitability of owning a dump truck. Fluctuations in construction activity, changes in fuel prices, and regional demand for hauling services will either hurt or help your revenue. Stay informed about local market trends and adjust business strategies accordingly.
Diversification and Expansion
Through a diversification of services, you ensure more than one means of making profit. Offering different types of hauling services or expanding to new geographical areas will make this possible. Also, try growing the fleet over time. That way, you increase the scale of operations, leading to higher income potential.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an owner operator or one of many dump truck drivers working for a company, at some point you will need to replace your heavy equipment. Your next vehicle can be new, or you can save money by buying something used. See the latest prices for used dump trucks in real time by visiting Municibid.