An Earthmoving Equipment Management Policy

Key elements of an equipment management policy which has been used by a successful earthmoving contractor are discussed in this paper. The author emphasizes that similar principals are used by most successful earthmoving contractors, and should be incorporated in a policy by large businesses or government agencies that become involved in earthmoving operations. Included is a discussion of size of fleet, operating and maintenance policies, record keeping, and replacement programs with a detailed presentation of the key factors in deciding to purchase or lease equipment. Specific items such as financial considerations, annual usage expected, dealer availability, operating and maintenance personnel, standardization, obsolescence, total cost, and social factors are discussed.