It’s important to consider the type of material you’ll be compacting, the size of the area and the capabilities of your team before purchasing a compaction machine. Walk-behind compactors and rammers are ideal for smaller areas and light-duty compaction; the vibration can cause strain for the operator with prolonged use. For large areas and heavy-duty compaction, ride-on rollers reduce strain on the operator and can compact large areas more efficiently than smaller models. Check out our Project Uptime article, Choosing the Right Roller or Compactor for Your Project.

When purchasing compaction equipment, buying used equipment can offer numerous benefits. One significant advantage is the lower cost associated with used equipment purchases. Buying used construction equipment can help you save significantly on upfront costs compared to buying new. Furthermore, investing in used equipment allows you to avoid initial depreciation when purchasing new machinery.

Consider the type of material you’ll be compacting, the size of the area and the capabilities of your team before making a purchase. A single drum roller will do the trick if you’re compacting sand, soil or gravel. If you’re working with asphalt, concrete or other hard surfaces, you’ll need a machine with a plate compactor. And finally, consider how much space is available to operate on.