When it comes to clearing of land for construction, there is usually a lot of debris to get rid of. Therefore, it is critical to get the right land clearing equipment. A chipper is one such machine, but you should know that any chipper will not get the job done. It is because chippers vary in capability; therefore, choosing the wrong chipper will likely lead to delays, accidents and even damage to the equipment itself. Coupled with the fact that contractors have a short window of opportunity to clear trees, you begin to understand why getting the right chipper in vital. This article highlights the different factors to consider before getting a chipper.

In-Feed Size

The first thing you should do when contracted to clear land for a construction project is to visit the site. It will allow you to estimate the average size of trees and shrubs that you will be clearing. Getting the estimate is essential because you ultimately want a chipper whose in-feed capacity can handle a majority of the trees and shrubs. Experts, therefore, recommend that contractors should get chippers whose in-feed size can handle at least 80% to 90% of the trees and shrubs on any piece of land. If you select a chipper with a lower capacity, you will be forced to change equipment midway through a project which will cost you more.

Worksite Terrain 

The terrain of a project site is another essential consideration when choosing a chipper. Project sites are not the same, and while some are easily navigable, other sites pose a problem for contractors. For example, clearing land on muddy or swampy ground requires tracked chippers. The ragged steel tracks equip the chipper with go-anywhere-mobility capabilities which ensure that the chipper can get to the trees with ease. On the other hand, a wheeled chipper will easily navigate firm, dry ground better than a tracked chipper. Therefore, it is paramount to examine the terrain on a project site before deciding which chipper to get.

Size of the Project 

What amount of land clearing are you going to do? It is an important question that every land clearing contractor should answer before renting or buying a chipper. It is attributed to the fact that chippers vary in size. Small chippers are designed for small confined spaces where manoeuvring is challenging. On the other hand, large chippers are meant for expansive open areas where there are no obstructions such as power or utility lines.