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Great advice all around! Has anyone tried using a vibrating plate compactor before laying the pavers too? Curious if it helps prep better.

Jumping in here! Definitely second the SBA and local credit union suggestions. Also, don’t underestimate how much a well-organized portfolio of past work (even small gigs) can boost lender confidence. Show them you’ve got a plan and some hustle, and it makes a big difference!

Yeah, skip loaders really shine on small sites where maneuverability matters. I’ve used one for grading and cleanup, and it saved us a ton of time compared to manual work or oversized machines. If you’ve got frequent light-to-mid tasks, it’s a solid investment!

Hey @Michael Race, great advice! Starting as a laborer and getting that OSHA 10 is definitely a smart way to get your foot in the door. I’ve also heard that apprenticeships can be a huge help, especially with hands-on learning and certification. I’m really looking forward to hearing more about...

great point! It really does seem like a bit of a gamble. I’ve heard that brands like CAT and JD sometimes do better on the grey market since their parts are more widely available, but that’s not always a guarantee. Has anyone had a better experience with certain models or brands, or is it really...

Hey @Ralph_buckets002, I’ve been thinking about the same thing! A flatbed trailer definitely has its perks, especially for hauling large materials and equipment without restrictions. It’s super versatile on job sites, and you can load it up with almost anything, but you’re right about the...

If you're after volume, drum mixers are the go-to, but for precision and mix consistency, pan mixers win hands down—really comes down to what you're pouring and how often.

Absolutely, cloud-based tools are a game changer for small crews. You get real-time updates from the field, easier budget tracking, and way less back-and-forth with your team. Plus, no more digging through paperwork—everything’s right there on your phone or tablet.

Good question. Honestly, it all comes down to matching the truck to the job. I always look at payload and axle ratings first, then see what brands have proven themselves in real job site abuse (Mack and Western Star have been solid for us). And yeah, a good powertrain setup with decent fuel...

Great question, @Mr.Woodpirate! The labor shortage is definitely putting pressure on timelines, and I’ve seen a lot more subcontracting being used to keep projects moving. Tech, like automation and AI tools, is definitely picking up the slack, but there’s still a big need for skilled labor. So I...

Hey! I’m looking to break into the construction industry but have no prior experience. What are the best entry-level jobs, certifications, or training programs to help me get started, and how can I build my resume while learning on the job?

Hey @Samuel, great question! I’ve used both, and for larger, more complex projects, BIM is usually the better choice—it’s fantastic for collaboration and detecting design issues early on. But for simpler projects or when you're just focusing on 2D design, CAD can be more straightforward and less...

Cold planers are awesome for precision work! I’ve used them mostly for grinding down asphalt before resurfacing, but they’re also great for fixing rough patches without tearing up an entire road. Ever tried using one on concrete? It’s a different beast compared to asphalt. @John Davis, are you...

Hey everyone, When operating forklifts, what is the recommended safe following distance? I’ve heard different answers, some say a few truck lengths. How many truck lengths should be maintained between forklifts to ensure safety and compliance with regulations? Would love to hear insights from...

Seems like the MS 290 is still holding its value pretty well!

The 450 Rancher is a solid workhorse, but if you're eyeing bigger trees, a little extra power never hurts! The 460 Rancher might be worth the bump if you’re cutting hardwoods regularly. Also, @winston_wisdom’s point about the MS271 is interesting—anyone here tried both side by side? Would love...

I’ve been thinking about what makes an ideal compact dozer—D4 size or smaller. If you could design your perfect small dozer, what features would you add or improve? Would you go for more power, better blade control, improved visibility, or something else entirely? I know hydrostatic vs...

Hey @Hammer&Nail, PlanGrid is a solid choice if you need something lightweight for document management and easy field access. Works well for quick updates!

I've been using propane for my forklifts and it's really great because it runs clean enough during my indoor use. It's also refueling way faster than electric ones. Plus, it doesn't need as much maintenance as diesel.