Excavation Contractor

Excavation contractors range from large general earthwork companies operating fleets of heavy equipment to specialized hydrovac companies focused exclusively on non-destructive excavation services. General excavation contractors typically use backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, and trenchers for large-volume earthmoving projects. Hydrovac excavation contractors use specialized vacuum trucks to perform precision excavation near underground utilities.

The distinction between general excavation contractors and hydrovac contractors is important for project planning and risk management. General excavation contractors are best suited for bulk earthwork where utility conflicts are minimal. Hydrovac contractors are essential when excavation occurs near known or suspected underground utilities, within tolerance zones, in congested utility corridors, or in any situation where utility damage must be prevented.

Many projects require both types of contractors working in coordination. A common workflow involves the hydrovac contractor first potholing to verify utility locations, then the general excavation contractor performing the bulk earthwork while maintaining safe clearances from the exposed utilities. Some general excavation companies have added hydrovac trucks to their fleets to provide both capabilities, while others subcontract hydrovac work to specialized firms.