Learn How to Make Money With A Dump Trailer in 2025 + Free Guide
Wondering how to make money with a dump trailer?
Learn how much you can realistically earn – and discover why the right dump trailer dramatically increases your hauling capacity and income.
Interested in Independent Contracting? Download our starting a delivery business guide and review your real income potential.
Independent dump trailer owners earn an average of $50K-$75K per year with minimal startup costs – and many scale to six figures within 24 months. That’s not hype or a marketing gimmick. It’s what happens when the right equipment pairs with a smart, service-focused business strategy.
If you’re serious about building a dump trailer business, understanding how the industry works (and how top earners operate) will save you months of trial and error.
At HAULIT, we’ve lived this world – hauling our own loads, refining processes, and helping everyday truck owners turn pickup trucks into dependable income tools.
If we can do it, so can you.
Take it from Matt Ostler, a roofing supplier in Indiana:
“Our company was sold on HAULIT the first day Randy came to our home office for a demo. We currently have 6 units in our fleet. The latest series is really something. It strengthens our company by not requiring CDL drivers or keeping those records. And we love not needing a forklift to unload.”
Matt’s story reflects a growing trend.
With the steady rise in demand for dump trailers across construction, landscaping, and property services industries, it’s no wonder that income opportunities using delivery equipment continue growing. Adding a dump trailer to your operations is an investment that should start profiting sooner rather than later.
What is a Dump Trailer Delivery Business?
A dump trailer business is a service-oriented operation focused on hauling and delivering larger quantity materials and goods that customers can’t transport themselves. Common materials include palletized goods (pavers, blocks, shingles), bulk materials (mulch, gravel, topsoil), and bundled items (lumber, fencing).
It’s often community-oriented work done within a specific mileage service area. A dump trailer business can be versatile or selective depending on what type of trailer you invest in and what contracts you pursue.
Why are independent contractors so interested in versatile, durable, and heavy-duty dump trailers? Because when you’re looking to make significant money, the type of trailer you have and what materials you can haul is extremely important.
When investing in equipment, smart operators see the big picture of what’s possible and calculate real numbers on profitability.
However, running a successful operation doesn’t require a high-end trailer – but you do need the right trailer that maximizes income without unnecessary operational costs eating into profits.
In this guide, we’ll share tips and strategies we’ve discovered from doing our own deliveries, plus how to start and scale your own operation. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- How to make money with a dump trailer
- How to choose the right trailer
- Ways to get contracts for your delivery loads
- Legal requirements and insurance needs
- How to price delivery fees
- Real business ideas that work
- How to scale into a full business
We’ll go over the money-making ideas and scaling strategies in the sections below.
How to Make Money With a Dump Trailer
Starting and running a profitable dump trailer business comes down to smart decisions in eight key areas. Let’s break down each one:
- Have the Right Truck for Pulling Heavy Loads
The size of the truck you need determines how big of loads you can actually haul profitably. Know your vehicle’s towing capacity, hitch rating, and the trailer’s GVWR before you start.
Most dump trailers are manufactured at a standard 14 feet. Whatever you’re hauling, make sure your truck can pull it with ease without putting constant stress on the engine.
Knowing and staying within your personal limits and towing capacity keeps you safe, extends equipment life, and prevents costly breakdowns.
We recommend these trucks because they offer the best combination of towing capacity, reliability, and operational cost-efficiency for dump trailer operations:
By Technical Specifications:
- Towing capacity: 10,000-20,000+ pounds
- Engine: V8 gas or diesel with high torque output
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic or higher
- Payload rating: 2,000-4,000+ pounds
- GVWR compatibility: Stays under 26,000 lbs combined (avoids CDL requirement)
Top Truck Models for 2025:
- Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty: Industry standard for heavy hauling, excellent diesel options
- Ram 2500/3500: Known for Cummins diesel reliability and high towing capacity
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 HD: Duramax diesel, advanced trailering tech
- GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD: Premium features with serious towing capability
- Ford F-150: Lower cost, adequate for smaller loads and simple 2-pallet operations
Most Haulit setups fall under the CDL limit, but operators must check the truck + trailer combined GVWR in their state.
- Use the Right Dump Trailer
Having the right trailer for the job is critical. The #1 benefit to a traditional dump trailer is its ability to tilt the bed and spill out loose loads without manual labor.
While this works great for bulk materials, it also determines (and often severely limits) the types of deliveries you can accept.
Traditional dump trailers handle debris, loose materials, and bulk goods. However, newer versions like the HAULIT not only unload loose or bulk materials but also self-unload palletized and bundled materials without forklifts or hand labor.
Essential Features Your Dump Trailer Should Have:
- Self-unloading capability (hydraulic dump OR conveyor system)
- Heavy-duty construction (reinforced steel frame, durable floor)
- Versatile cargo capacity (handles pallets, bulk, and bundled materials)
- Proper lighting system (LED lights for safety and visibility)
- Reliable tilt mechanism or push-off system
- Replaceable fenders and quality attachment systems
- Safety features (tarping system, brake system, secure gates)
- No CDL requirement for operational flexibility
The HAULIT Workhorse delivers all these features in one trailer. If you’re wanting to make money with your dump trailer, you must maximize loads by increasing the number of deliveries you complete daily.
Having the ability to deliver a wide range of materials allows you to secure more delivery contracts and generate more revenue.
- Get Insurance
Dump trailer operators provide specialized services.
When transporting bulk loose materials, assisting in debris removal, or handling palletized goods – whether for short-haul or interstate – it’s highly recommended to obtain proper liability insurance and coverage.
Three Insurance Options We Recommend:
| Insurance Type | Coverage | Benefits | Approx. Annual Cost | Best For |
| Commercial Auto Liability Insurance | Protects against bodily injury and property damage claims resulting from accidents involving your truck or trailer. | Required by law; provides essential protection if you’re at fault in an accident. | $2,500-$5,000 for basic commercial coverage | All commercial hauling operations |
| Physical Damage Coverage (Collision + Comprehensive) | Covers repairs or replacement of your trailer due to collision, theft, fire, vandalism, or natural disasters. | Protects your trailer investment; covers the trailer whether it’s hitched or unhitched. | $800-$2,000 depending on trailer value and coverage limits | Protecting your trailer asset regardless of fault |
| Motor Truck Cargo Insurance | Protects the materials or goods you haul for customers against damage, loss, or theft during transport. | Often required by commercial clients; builds trust with suppliers and contractors. | $500-$1,500 depending on cargo value limits | Haulers working with landscapers, contractors, building suppliers, and retail deliveries |
- Calculate Your Operating Expenses
You’ll never know if you’re making a profit if you don’t calculate how much it costs to operate. Operating expenses include rent, equipment, inventory (if applicable), marketing, payroll, taxes, insurance, and miscellaneous expenses.
If you’re not sure, start by using an AI tool to help calculate your expenses. We recommend using ChatGPT or your preferred AI tool with this prompt:
“I’m starting a dump trailer delivery business. Help me create a monthly operating expense spreadsheet. Include categories for: truck payment, trailer payment, fuel costs, insurance, maintenance reserve, marketing, licensing fees, and administrative costs. Provide formulas to calculate total monthly expenses and break-even revenue needed.”
You must also talk to an accountant early about your specific operating expenses. Once you know your costs, you can calculate profit margins and set up your business budget properly.
Calculating your profit margins and delivery fees while including operating expenses is how you ensure profitability.
- Calculate Your Delivery Fees
How much do you charge? This is your number one question, and you need to feel confident in your answer.
Average Dump Trailer Hauling Rates in 2025
Based on industry reports, dump trailer hauling rates vary significantly by region, material type, and distance. Short hauls (under 25 miles) command higher per-mile rates because fixed costs stay the same. Long hauls spread costs across more miles.
| Job Type | Distance | Rate Range | Typical Total Cost |
| Local dirt/mulch haul | 5-10 miles | $2.00-$3.50/mile | $200-$350 |
| Construction debris | 15-20 miles | $1.75-$3.00/mile | $350-$600 |
| Gravel/stone delivery | 25-40 miles | $1.50-$2.50/mile | $500-$1,000 |
| Long-distance materials | 50+ miles | $1.25-$2.00/mile | $750-$1,500 |
Important: Dump trailer hauling rates aren’t calculated by mileage alone. Most operators charge a minimum load fee (usually $150-$300) plus a per-mile rate. This is why a 5-10 mile job may still total $200-$350 even though the per-mile rate appears low.
Important Variables Affecting Your 2025 Rates:
- Urban vs Rural: Cities average 20-30% higher.
- Seasonality: Summer = 15-25% higher demand.
- Material Type: Heavy loads justify higher pricing.
- Job Frequency: Returning clients lower acquisition cost.
As a rule of thumb, research comparable services in your area. Make calls to similar services and ask their rates. Search online for supply stores and check current delivery pricing.
You want to be competitive but comparable. FreshBooks offers a great pricing guide for small delivery businesses.
Work the numbers and feel confident in your pricing. Your ability to get the job done makes you valuable. Knowing you’re hitting your margins keeps your business running smoothly.
- Create a Billing & Payment Method
How will you bill clients and accept payments? There are countless options: Square, QuickBooks, Venmo, PayPal, Stripe. Choose what works best for your accounting needs and customer preferences.
At HAULIT, we prefer customers to pre-pay for loads. This allows us to settle on price, receive payment, make the delivery, and be done.
Never wait around for payment – it cuts into time you could be making other deliveries. Settle on price and payment beforehand. Either bill for services rendered or get paid upfront.
- Get Quality Delivery Contracts
Having quality contracts is essential. Being able to offer deliveries for various materials helps you obtain more contracts.
Start by looking at community needs. Make a list of all companies making deliveries: big-chain stores with lawn and garden departments, supply and feed stores, nurseries, sod farms, construction sites, and landscape supply chains. Decide what you want to deliver and what isn’t worth your time.
Use Our Research Template to Find and Book Delivery Contracts:
- Download the template from this link
- List all potential customers in your service area by category (landscaping, construction, retail)
- Research each business – note their delivery needs, current delivery methods, contact information
- Cold call systematically – work through your list with a simple pitch about your services
- Track responses – note interest level, follow-up dates, and specific needs
- Start with easiest wins – target businesses that already offer delivery but struggle with efficiency
Obtaining even just a few quality contracts with these services could provide all the delivery work you want. You may even need to scale up quickly.
8. Work Independently or Scale Up
Ultimately, it’s your business – you decide how big to grow.
Scaling up to make more money is possible with dump trailer deliveries by working more hours, hiring someone to deliver during your off time, or purchasing another trailer and repeating your success.
To scale successfully, start by running your dump trailer as much as possible and hiring another driver. Once your budget allows more equipment, obtain more contracts and purchase another trailer. Here’s how Ron Gohene from Cheyenne, Wyoming contracts his independent delivery business with Menards:
“I purchased my HAULIT XL from a guy who already had the Menards contract several years ago. I was so busy that I paid for my HAULIT in less than five months. My drivers have loved operating the equipment. Customers are ‘WOWed’ every time we make a delivery.”
He uses a variety of equipment with his HAULIT for just about everything to keep up with demand.
9. Drive Loads or Lease Your Trailer Out
Another way to make money with a dump trailer is leasing it out. If you don’t want to obtain more contracts and scale up, leasing during times you’re not using it generates additional income.
Not everyone can purchase large equipment and would gladly pay a fee to lease. If they have to rent from somewhere, it may as well be you – if you’re willing.
Just be sure to have proper insurance and rental agreements in place.
Dump Trailer Business Requirements
Starting a dump trailer business involves meeting certain legal requirements that vary by state and municipality. While specific regulations differ, here are standard requirements most operators need:
Standard Legal Requirements for a Dump Trailer Business:
- Business License: Register with your city/county ($50-$200 annually)
- EIN (Employer Identification Number): Obtain from IRS for tax purposes (free)
- Commercial Insurance: Liability and physical damage coverage (required)
- Vehicle Registration: Register trailer with DMV, obtain commercial plates if applicable
- DOT Number: Required if operating interstate or hauling for hire in many states
- Sales Tax Permit: If charging customers, you may need to collect sales tax
- Zoning Permits: Ensure your storage location allows commercial vehicle parking
- Operating Authority: Some states require freight hauling permits
Always check with your state’s Department of Transportation, Secretary of State office, and local city hall to confirm specific requirements for your location and operation type.
Is a Dump Trailer Business Profitable?
Yes – a dump trailer business is highly profitable when operated with the right equipment and strategic customer relationships. Here are a few of the best reviews we hear from contractors using HAULIT for their delivery business:
Justin Arts from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, started his business in 2018 using Workhorse XL: “I started my $1,000,000 per year business in 2018 using a HAULIT XL.”
Matt Edgington from Kaysville, Utah, specializes in lumber deliveries: “We started delivering bundles of specialty lumbers with a HAULIT in 2018. They have proven so effective that we now have 5 units in our fleet in three different states.”
Moreover, Dale Clark’s cooperative in Salt Lake City operates 22 units: “Our cooperative has 30 locations and provides products to wholesale accounts in 6 states. The first buyer purchased 5 HAULIT because they were safer and easier to operate than our other delivery equipment, and we soon found that retail sales were substantially increased in the stores that provided HAULIT deliveries. We now have 22 units in our fleet.”
You see, the sky’s the limit when it comes to delivery contracts. Because of the equipment needed, servicing deliveries for your community is a niche industry, and the service is essential.
Making your dump trailer business profitable typically depends on three critical factors:
- Equipment efficiency (minimizing downtime)
- Contract quality (repeat customers paying fair rates)
- Operational discipline (tracking expenses and maintaining margins)
Operators using versatile trailers like HAULIT report faster profitability because they can accept more job types, complete more deliveries daily, and avoid the operational costs of forklifts or extra labor.
Top 10 Dump Trailer Business Ideas
Here are proven, profitable ways to make money with your dump trailer business plan in 2025:
- Sod Farms
Contract with local sod farms to handle smaller residential orders. Large farms are thrilled to avoid sending big equipment for small deliveries and get orders to customers quicker.
Revenue Estimate: Sod trailer deliveries average $150-$300 per trip depending on square footage and distance.
Pro Tip: We recommend you target spring and fall peak seasons with discounted rates for regular weekly customers to lock in consistent revenue.
- Landscape Materials
Hauling materials to job sites is critical for landscapers. Contract with landscape companies to handle their deliveries of rock, brick, block, sod, sand, mulch, pavers, cement blocks, and debris cleanup.
Revenue Estimate: Landscape material deliveries range from $200-$500 per load – depending on weight and distance.
Pro Tip: We recommend you offer same-day or next-day delivery guarantees to become landscapers’ go-to delivery partner during their busy season.
- Tree Farms or Nurseries
With the right dump and delivery trailer, you can deliver trees and nursery goods from local nurseries. Contract with nurseries and big-chain stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot that offer nursery goods.
Store managers presented with affordable, efficient delivery options will either invest in equipment themselves or hire out – it might as well be you.
Revenue Estimate: Nursery deliveries average $150-$350 per trip with potential for high-volume spring contracts.
Pro Tip: We recommend you develop relationships with multiple nurseries to smooth out seasonal income fluctuations and ensure year-round work.
- Home Builders
Contract with local home builders and offer a materials delivery certificate program for new homes. This creates consistent, predictable income.
Revenue Estimate: Builder contracts can generate $2,000-$5,000 monthly per builder with multiple deliveries per home.
Pro Tip: We recommend you offer package deals where builders prepay for a set number of deliveries at discounted rates – this guarantees your income.
- Construction Workers / General Contractors
General contractors constantly seek ways to keep projects on schedule. Delivery delays create bottlenecks. Contract with contractors and let them know your delivery capabilities.
They’ll use you when they’re in a pinch or contract more consistently depending on needs. From debris cleanup to delivering materials at building sites, having a dependable delivery source is extremely valuable.
Revenue Estimate: Construction deliveries range from $300-$700 per load for materials; debris removal commands $200-$400 per haul.
Pro Tip: We recommend you establish on-call availability during peak construction months (May-September) and charge premium rates for same-day service.
- Local Zoos / Animal Shelters
The volume of deliveries in and out of zoos or animal shelters is extensive. Medical supplies, feed, and maintenance materials are in constant flux.
Revenue Estimate: Regular monthly contracts with facilities can generate $1,500-$3,000 monthly for 10-15 deliveries.
Pro Tip: We recommend you offer monthly retainer contracts with guaranteed response times to secure predictable recurring income.
- Farming, Feed & Tack Supply Stores
Supply stores like IFA or C-A-L Ranch offer diverse materials: hay, straw, supersacks of fertilizer, wood pellets. Delivery options are always limited to customers having large vehicles or waiting for deliveries.
Having another quality delivery option is a huge advantage.
Revenue Estimate: Farm supply deliveries average $175-$400 per trip depending on material weight and rural distance.
Pro Tip: We recommend you target rural routes where you can combine multiple customer deliveries in a single day to maximize efficiency.
- Car Washes
Ice melt delivery is a great seasonal contract for local car washes, especially during winter months when demand spikes and a reliable supply is critical.
Revenue Estimate: Bulk ice melt deliveries generate $200-$500 per delivery with multiple deliveries per location during winter.
Pro Tip: We recommend you pre-sell winter contracts in late summer/early fall to lock in steady income before peak season demand.
- Family & Friends
There’s truth to the saying, “if you want friends, buy a trailer.” When you have the right equipment, never underestimate word-of-mouth among family and friends for referrals or paid help with projects.
Revenue Estimate: Personal referrals typically pay $150-$300 per job and lead to high-quality business referrals.
Pro Tip: We recommend you offer slight discounts to family/friends but ask them to post reviews and refer you to neighbors and colleagues – this builds your reputation.
- Dump Trailer Rental
If you’re not using your trailer full-time, rent it out by the day or week to contractors, homeowners, and DIYers who need temporary hauling capacity.
Revenue Estimate: Daily rentals command $150-$250/day; weekly rentals range $600-$900/week.
Pro Tip: We recommend you require deposits, insurance verification, and provide simple operation training to protect your equipment and reduce liability.
Materials The HAULIT Dump & Delivery Trailer Can Deliver
Many independent contractors and delivery businesses choose the HAULIT dump trailer for its durability and diversity in handling virtually any material type. HAULIT models can help you deliver:
| Palletized Materials | Bulk / Loose Materials | Bundled Materials | Specialty Items |
| Pavers, brick, block | Mulch | Bunks of lumber | Trees and nursery goods |
| Bagged mulch | Sand | Sheet rock | Sod |
| Bagged soil | Dirt | Fencing materials | Wood pellets |
| Bagged fertilizer | Topsoil | PVC materials | Ice melt |
| Cement mix bags | Gravel | Steel materials | Feed & supply (hay, straw, supersacks) |
| Shingles & roofing materials | Decorative stone | Trusses | IBC totes |
| Cabinets | Landscaping rock | Appliances and grills | |
| Debris & yard waste cleanup | Medical supply deliveries |
You can see why it’s extremely important to have the right dump trailer if you’re serious about maximizing income. The good news: any dump trailer, put to work strategically, can create cash flow. It just takes upfront effort to establish contracts and processes.
Related Resources
Best Versatile Dumper Trailer
Discover why the HAULIT trailer stands out as the most versatile dumper trailer on the market. This guide covers size selection, towing requirements, material capabilities, and income potential. Learn how HAULIT’s chain-driven push-off mechanism allows delivery of palletized, bundled, and bulk materials without forklifts – putting it in a unique category. Features detailed specs, customer interviews, and real-world applications from operators making serious income.
Landscape Delivery Trailer for Efficient Transport
Learn what makes a heavy-duty landscape delivery trailer essential for professional operations. This resource explains transport capabilities (palletized materials, bulk goods, nursery items), payload capacities for different models, pricing considerations, and key features that separate quality trailers from basic utility models. Includes manufacturer information and guidance on choosing the right delivery trailer for your specific landscape business needs.
Routine Trailer Maintenance for Longevity
Proper maintenance is critical for safety and extending trailer life. This comprehensive maintenance guide covers HAULIT-specific care: battery maintenance and charging, wheel bearing inspection and greasing schedules, tire pressure recommendations, chain lubrication, hydraulic fluid checks, zerk fitting locations, and wiring system care. Includes troubleshooting tips, parts replacement procedures, and cargo drag minimization techniques to keep your trailer operating optimally for years.
Ready to Start Your Dump Trailer Business?
HAULIT, headquartered in Brigham City, Utah, specializes in manufacturing premium dump trailers designed for professional delivery operations. Built tough, easy to maintain, and engineered for years of reliable service.
Whether you’re exploring dump trailer business ideas or ready to add trailers to your operation, we’re here to help you succeed.
Visit Haulit.com to explore our Workhorse and Workhorse XL models, calculate your income potential, or contact our team to discuss which configuration works best for your business goals.
We hope this has been a helpful guide for starting and growing your dump trailer business. We’ll keep you posted with developments and tips in the delivery industry here on our blog.
Don’t forget to share this post! Your friends with dump trailers will thank you.