Need an exact, machine-by-machine plan? Try the advanced fuel calculator →
How much fuel does construction equipment use?
Fuel use depends on the machine's engine size and how hard it's working. As a rule of thumb, a diesel engine burns roughly 0.05 gallons per horsepower each hour at a full working load. Here are typical figures for common equipment running a normal workday:
| Equipment | Typical use / hour | Per 8-hr day |
|---|---|---|
| Mini excavator (1–4 ton) | ~0.8 gal | ~6 gal |
| Standard excavator (20 ton) | ~5 gal | ~40 gal |
| Large excavator (30 ton) | ~8 gal | ~65 gal |
| Dozer (D6 class) | ~6.7 gal | ~54 gal |
| Wheel loader (mid-size) | ~5.8 gal | ~46 gal |
| Skid steer loader | ~1.3 gal | ~10 gal |
| Backhoe loader | ~2.5 gal | ~20 gal |
| Light tower | ~0.4 gal | ~5 gal (12 hr) |
| 100 kW diesel generator | ~5–7 gal | ~130–170 gal (24 hr) |
Figures are typical estimates based on published equipment and generator fuel data; actual use varies with load, conditions, and operator.
Common questions
How big a fuel tank do I need on site?
Big enough to cover your fuel use between deliveries with a safe cushion. Add up your daily fuel use and multiply by how many days you want between fills. A typical small crew runs a 250–1,000 gallon tank; large earthwork or generator jobs use 2,000–10,000 gallon tanks. The calculator above sizes it for you.
I already have tanks — how often will they need filling?
Use the "I already have tanks" tab. Tell us your equipment and the tanks you've got, and we'll show how many days each tank lasts and flag anything that's undersized or missing a fuel type.
Do you provide the tank and pump?
Yes. We deliver the fuel and can set you up with the right tank and pump — including double-wall tanks and secondary containment where they're required — so you don't have to source anything.
How often will you deliver?
On a schedule that keeps you from ever running dry — often weekly, but we set the cadence to your tank size and burn rate. Many customers get automatic top-offs so they never have to call.
What's the difference between off-road (dyed) and on-road diesel?
Off-road diesel is dyed red and used for equipment that doesn't drive on public roads — it's taxed differently. On-road (clear) diesel is for licensed vehicles. We deliver both, plus DEF and gasoline, and keep them in the correct tanks.
Do I need secondary containment or a permit?
Once your total on-site fuel storage reaches about 1,320 gallons, federal rules require secondary containment and a spill plan. We handle the tank setup to keep you compliant — just ask.