What tandem, tri-axle, and quad dump trucks actually bill per hour, per load, and per ton across Illinois in 2026 — plus when to quote hourly instead of per load.
| Truck | Hourly | Per load | Per ton (10–25 mi haul) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-axle | $95–$135/hr | $240–$340 | $6–$12/ton |
| Tandem-axle | $120–$170/hr | $310–$440 | $7–$14/ton |
| Tri-axle | $145–$205/hr | $410–$570 | $7–$15/ton |
| Quad / super dump | $170–$235/hr | $490–$690 | $8–$16/ton |
Real winter shutdown Dec–Feb. Salt hauling is a huge secondary market — many operators bank $15k–$30k on winter salt runs.
Cycles under 45 minutes, sites with loader or paver wait time, and anything where the GC controls your pace. Always attach a two-hour minimum.
Long, predictable quarry-to-site runs over 90 minutes where you control the cycle. Convert the offer to an hourly figure first — if it lands under $120/hr, counter.
$5,400–$10,600/yr for a single tandem — Chicago metro higher. Chicago runs its own weight enforcement inside city limits. Statewide 80,000 lb GVW with permits through IDOT. Spring thaw restrictions Feb–May on posted county roads.
Full Illinois startup guide →The course includes the rate-quote worksheet, cycle-time math, and the exact language for holding your number when a GC pushes back.