What to Haul: Aggregate vs C&D vs Asphalt vs Topsoil (2026)
Published March 31, 2026·Last reviewed March 31, 2026·9 min read
Short answer
Aggregate is the boring, steady baseline. C&D pays more but needs tarps and transfer-station relationships. Asphalt pays best but requires an insulated bed and tight schedules. Start with aggregate, layer C&D once you have GC relationships.
Pick the material your market has, not the one that pays best on paper. A perfect asphalt truck in a market with no paving is just a slow tandem.
Side by side
| Material | Margin | Season | Equipment needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aggregate / stone | Low-mid | Year-round | Any dump |
| Fill dirt | Low | Peak Q2–Q3 | Any dump |
| C&D debris | Mid-high | Year-round | Tarp system, transfer-station account |
| Asphalt | High | Apr–Nov | Insulated bed, tarp, tight schedules |
| Topsoil / mulch | Low-mid | Peak spring | Clean bed (won't mix with prior loads) |
Dump Truck Academy Editorial Team
Working owner-operators, trucking CPAs, and construction estimators who review every article before it publishes. We update pricing and compliance numbers every quarter.
12+ years combined hauling, GC subcontracting, and small-fleet operations experience.
Get the complete playbook
All 6 modules, 12 bonuses, and the GC directory — $39 one-time, lifetime access.
Enroll for $39