Calculators › Fuel Estimator

Equipment Fuel Estimator

Estimate fuel consumption and cost for construction equipment over a job duration.

Inputs

For estimation purposes only. Terms of Use

Estimate

—
total fuel cost ($)
Rate—
Total hours—
Total litres—
Cost per day—
→
Connected workflow Continue to the cost control workflow Your fuel estimate carries in as committed cost.
  • Enter hours per day and the number of days to get total operating hours.
  • Multiply total hours by the equipment fuel rate (L/hr) for total litres.
  • Multiply by the price per litre for total cost — and adjust the rate for idle vs. loaded work.

    • Formula Used

    Total Hours = Hours/Day × Days
    Total Litres = Rate (L/hr) × Total Hours
    Total Cost = Total Litres × Price/L

    Worked Example

    A medium excavator (20 L/hr) running 8 hrs/day for 10 days at $1.65/L:

    Total Hours = 8 × 10 = 80 hrs
    Total Litres = 20 × 80 = 1600 L
    Total Cost = 1600 × 1.65 = $2,640

    When to Use This Calculator

    Use this for project budgeting, equipment cost tracking, or estimating fuel allowances on tender submissions before a job starts.

    When Not to Use This Calculator

    Actual consumption varies significantly with load, terrain, idle time, and operator habits. For precise cost tracking, use actual fuel logs from equipment telematics where available.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does idle time count toward operating hours? ▾

    This calculator assumes active operating hours. Idle time consumption is typically lower (around 30-40% of working rate) and would need separate accounting for full accuracy.

    Why do consumption rates vary so much? ▾

    Load, terrain, operator technique, and equipment age all significantly affect actual fuel burn. The values shown are typical mid-range estimates for medium-duty operation.

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