You know what they say, there’s so much more than what meets the eye. Such is the case of excavation contractors. In the field of construction, they are a quintessential part as they do so much more than just hauling dirt. Their job description extends to soil-related tasks such as trenching, grading, and site preparation among others. In order for them to deliver the job, they need to operate large scale heavy equipment. For the majority that I have talked with, operating with these equipment puts a smile on their faces as it does fulfill their childhood truck dreams. Let us discover the responsibilities of excavating contractors such as Southwest Michigan Excavating Services: 

Site Preparation
A lot of people don’t realize the construction responsibilities of excavating contractors start with site preparation. They show up right after the surveyors finish their job in plotting the boundaries of houses and lots. Then they remove the soil according to the required depth. It may be for the foundation of a soon-to-be erected building and a road. This has to be precise, so the guys must utilize a level and transit. While doing this, they need to ensure firmness of the soil. This is done through compaction with appropriate equipment. After those two tasks, contractors now pour stem wall and footers, plus backfill new foundation. In addition, excavation contractors can transport dirt to prep water and gas lines, build dams, and create drainage on lands good for farming.  

 

Coordination with other contractors 

As their job is most often one segment of a larger project, excavation guys are considered to be subcontractors. In this effect, they are not the guys who will oversee any construction project. They receive directions from general contractors, the guys responsible for soliciting bids, moreover coordinating and paying other subcontractors when they complete a certain segment of the project. Good coordination then is needed for the excavation guys be considered for the next projects.     

 

Leasing Heavy Equipment 

With its size and capacity, excavation equipment is pricey to purchase. For small time excavation contractors, buying this necessary equipment can be financially burdensome to them. That’s why they opt to lease/rent bulldozers, large front-end loaders, compactors, backhoes, skid steers, trenchers, and the likes. They couldn’t afford to risk their output by just renting from some random guy. It’s inherent of them to rent from the people who are very familiar with this industry. They are the excavation contractors. 

 

Developing new talents in heavy equipment operation   

Excavation contractors are also purveyors of heavy equipment operation. Since there are only few trade schools that offer degrees for such, these contractors will get potential workers and will train them on its ropes. Their training will be backed with their years of experience with heavy equipment operation.     

 

Back office work of Excavation Contracting 

As service providers assisted with heavy equipment, they are bound to create a comprehensive portfolio. This includes their license to operate and certificate to attest technical learning. Their portfolio can also mention stable bookkeeping and payroll system plus knowledge received in financing and insurance responsibilities. This can really impress potential clients. Next to the portfolio is the all-important competitive bid. This should be backed with the usual excavation rate of the community.