Tree removal is an expensive service, but with a few simple tricks you can negotiate the price to get the best deal. Removing trees isn’t always an easy job and it doesn’t come cheap. In fact, tree removal can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the size and complexity of the job.
But if you know what factors go into the cost and how to negotiate, you can save money while getting your tree removed safely and efficiently.
With this guide, you will learn all about tree removal costs, what’s negotiable, and how to get the best deal possible. So grab your chainsaws and let’s get started!
What Goes Into The Cost Of Tree Removal?
Tree removal can be an expensive job, with prices ranging from $500 to $5000 depending on the size and risk involved in the process. On average, nationwide, tree removal for a single tree is about $1200 in 20223.
The cost of tree removal depends on three main factors:
- The size of the tree being removed,
- The risk involved with the location and cleanup of the particular tree, and
- The equipment/skill level needed to remove it.
For larger trees, more garbage collection is required which can add to the cost.
We recommend homeowners and/or business owners not attempt DIY tree removal unless it is a smaller tree (10 feet or shorter). Tree removal services employ specialists because they are expert climbers who know how to avoid potentially dangerous pitfalls.
Additionally, these specialists have access to specialized tools like stump grinders and shredders that help them get rid of stumps quickly and cleanly.
In order to get a fair price for your tree removal services, consider getting quotes from multiple providers and researching their additional services as well as their experience with similar types of trees.
Average Cost of Tree Removal
Removing a tree can be a costly endeavor, depending on the size of the tree and other factors. For trees under 30 feet tall, removal costs typically range from $200 to $450. Removing a tree between 30 and 60 feet tall is more expensive and may cost anywhere between $420 to $1,200.
Trees over 80 feet in height can be the most costly to remove with an average cost ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. Additionally, it is common practice to tip your tree removal service providers if they do a good job or go above and beyond.
Tips should generally be about 15-20% of the total project cost or around $5-$15 per worker. With these numbers in mind, it is important to consider how much money you are willing to invest into removing a tree before taking any action.
Why tree removal is so expensive
Tree removal is an expensive process due to the large overhead and running costs associated with it. A professional tree service typically needs to employ a ground crew of at least three people, along with a climber for any tree removal job.
Furthermore, they will need to outlay a significant amount of capital – often more than $200,000 – just to purchase the necessary equipment. This includes things such as trucks and chippers. All of these factors contribute to why tree removal can be so costly.
It’s important to bear in mind that when you hire a professional tree service, you’re not only paying for the removal but also for their expertise and safety measures taken while performing the job.
The cheapest time of year for tree removal
Tree removal can be a costly process, particularly when dealing with larger trees. However, there is one simple way you can save money on tree removal services; selecting the best time of year to remove a tree. Winter is always going to be the cheapest time of year to have a tree removed due to the low demand for such services.
During this time, tree service providers will lower prices in order to compete for work and give customers a fair price. It’s important that you research the type of tree you need removed and select a reliable service provider who offers additional services like stump shredding or grinding if necessary.
Doing your homework can help ensure that you get professional tree removal services at an affordable price while avoiding any potential safety hazards posed by large or tall trees near power lines.
What Areas Of Tree Removal Service Are Negotiable?
Tree removal companies typically price their services based on three main factors: the size and type of tree, the height of the tree, and the complexity of the job. Knowing what to expect in terms of cost is important when considering tree removal. You should be aware that there are a few areas where you can negotiate with your tree removal company for a lower price.
The first area you may be able to negotiate is the cost of cleanup after removal. This can include removing debris from your property or hauling it away. You may also be able to negotiate on stump removal, as some companies offer grinding or shredding services in addition to simple excavation.
Additionally, if you need multiple trees removed at once, you can often get a discount from your tree service provider. Finally, small businesses can sometimes offer discounts since they don’t have all the large overhead costs associated with larger companies.
Overall, it’s important to do your research before selecting a tree removal company so that you know what services are available and which areas are most negotiable. Price should not be your only consideration when selecting a service provider; take into account experience and reputation as well.
How to negotiate tree removal cost
Negotiating the cost of tree removal can be a daunting task, but there are some tricks that you can use to save money. To start, make sure to research and select a reputable tree removal service that is certified and insured.
Not only will this ensure their work is done professionally, but it also shows that they have experience with different types of trees. Also, when possible try to plan your tree removal for the least busy times of year for tree companies.
This will help ensure you get the best price since the company may be able to offer discounts due to less competition.
If there are power lines near your tree, consider having them removed by an electrician before hiring a tree company as this could save you money in the long run. When negotiating with a tree specialist, try not to focus on your specific situation too much as it can lead to higher prices.
Instead, ask about average costs for various sizes of trees (e.g., what is the average cost for a 30-ft tall tree). You should also consider whether stump grinding or shredding services are needed and if these additional services require more money.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices from multiple companies before settling on one – this will likely result in you finding the best fair price for your situation.
1. Keep logs as firewood
If you have a large tree that needs to be removed from your property, you don’t need to send the logs off to be processed. Instead, you can keep them as firewood and use them during the winter months. To do this, get a quote for complete tree removal and another quote to cut the tree down, remove all branches, but leave the logs.
This will save you hundreds of dollars in comparison to paying for professional tree removal services. Once the logs are cut up into smaller pieces, store them in a dry place until it is time to burn them in the fireplace or wood stove.
If you don’t have a log fire yourself at home, take pictures of the logs and post them on Gumtree or another similar website – there are sure to be plenty of people willing to come over and haul them away free of charge!
2. Remove green waste yourself
Removing green waste yourself can be a great way to save money on tree removal costs. This technique involves filling your green bin over time and putting it out for garbage collection or hiring a trailer and hauling the branches to the local dump and disposing of them.
While this may not be the biggest saver, as you will likely have to pay to dump the green waste yourself, it can still result in significant cost savings. Be sure to check with your local municipality for specific requirements regarding green bin disposal.
If you are dealing with larger trees or stumps, you may need additional services such as stump grinding or a stump shredder. Consulting with an expert tree removal specialist can help ensure that all aspects of the tree are properly disposed of before any fees are incurred.
3. Remove the Stump by Hand or Leave It There
Removing a stump is one of the most important steps in getting rid of a tree. Stumps can be difficult to remove, and it can be expensive to hire a professional service provider. But if you’re willing to do the work yourself, there are two ways to go about it: by hand or by renting a stump shredder.
If you decide to go the manual route, you must use an axe or pickaxe to chop away at the tree trunk until you’ve completely removed it from the ground. This can take several hours and will require physical effort, so it’s not for everyone. However, once completed, you won’t have any stumps left in your yard.
If time is a factor and you don’t want to put in the work yourself, then renting a stump shredder is probably your best option. The cost of rental usually ranges between $150-$300 depending on the size of the stump and diameter of the tree trunk. The machine does all the work for you in less time than it takes to remove by hand. However, this is still significantly more expensive than removing by hand.
In order to get a fair price for either method of removal, be sure to research local tree companies and compare rates based on type of tree and how tall they are (usually measured in feet). Most experts agree that winter is typically the cheapest time for professionals because demand tends to be lower during this season.
4. Remove Multiple Trees at Once
Negotiating tree removal can be made easier if you are looking to remove multiple trees at once. Whether it’s for clearing land or getting rid of a pest infestation, you may be able to get a better deal from tree removal companies if you have several trees that need to go.
The process of tree removal will vary depending on the types of trees and any obstacles such as power lines or tall structures that are nearby. The cost also depends on the height and size of the trees, so it’s important to consult with experts about your situation before seeking out professional tree removal services.
On average, the cost per tree is usually lower when more than one is removed at a time. If stump grinding is required, this could add an additional service fee which may cause the overall price to go up. When negotiating with a tree company, make sure to ask whether they offer discounts when multiple trees are removed at once in order to save money on your tree removal project.
5. Ask for Set Discounts
When it comes to tree removal, it can be costly if there are a lot of trees that need to be taken down. However, it may be more economical in the long run to ask for set discounts from a tree removal company if you have multiple trees that need to be cut down.
These companies often offer set discounts on large projects since they save time by having all the work done at once. When considering the price of tree removal, it is important to factor in not only the cost of cutting down and removing the tree but also the cost of getting rid of the tree stumps.
A stump shredder may be necessary for larger stumps and this will add to the overall cost. Additionally, the type and height of your trees should also be taken into account when figuring out an average cost for tree removal.
It’s always wise to shop around and compare prices from different service providers before deciding on who you want to go with. Lastly, usually, winter months are considered as being cheaper times for cutting down tall trees so if that’s an option for you, it could save you money on your tree removal project.
6. Look for Free Tree Removal Options
There are many options available to those looking for free tree removal services. Utility companies may offer free removal when trees threaten power or sewer lines, and local governments can help with removing trees on city property.
Additionally, some states or local governments may provide grants or other financial assistance for removal in areas prone to wildfires or extreme weather. Before seeking professional tree removal services, it’s worth researching these possible sources of free tree removal.
However, if you do need to hire a tree specialist, make sure you get quotes from different companies and compare the cost of their services before agreeing on a fair price. Remember to consider additional services such as stump grinding and the type of tree being removed when figuring out how much money you will spend on tree removal services.
7. Approach Numerous Services
When it comes to negotiating the cost of tree removal, one of the best tips is to approach numerous service providers in your area. By doing so, you will be able to gain a better insight into the average cost of tree removal, and this can give you an advantage when attempting to negotiate a lower price.
Furthermore, getting quotes from smaller companies can also be beneficial as they may offer more competitive rates than larger services in order to attract new customers. Ultimately, researching various services and comparing their prices is essential in order to get the best deal on tree removal costs.
8. Use small local companies
Using a small local company to remove a tree from your property can often be the cheapest and most effective option. Smaller companies may not have all the latest equipment, but they are usually more than capable of dealing with medium-sized trees.
All that is required for tree removal is usually a chainsaw, climbing equipment, and a supporting ground crew. The best way to find these smaller local companies is to avoid the first page of search results and look on pages 2 or 3 instead.
This will generally give you access to lower rates because these smaller companies have fewer overheads. Additionally, they may even offer additional services such as stump grinding and shredding at much lower rates than larger tree removal businesses.
When shopping around for professional tree removal services, always consider going with a small local company as they will likely provide you with the best price for your needs.
9. Select the Off-Season
For anyone looking to save money on tree removal, the off-season can be a great opportunity. Scheduling the removal during the winter season when demand is low can reduce the cost of a removal significantly. However, even if you have an emergency situation and must get rid of a tree immediately, it is still possible to negotiate with the tree removal company for a fair price.
When negotiating, consider factors such as the height of the tree, the type of tree, and whether or not there are power lines in the vicinity that need to be taken into consideration. The more information you have about your tree and its size and condition, the better equipped you will be to negotiate with your service provider. Additionally, if there are any stumps left after the tree has been removed, it is important to account for any stump shredder costs as well.
In conclusion, taking advantage of off-season pricing can help save you money on tree removal services while still getting quality work done. It is also important to provide as much information as possible when negotiating so that you can get a fair price for your service.
10. Getting Rid of Obstacles
When it comes to getting rid of obstacles, preparation is key. It’s important to properly assess the situation before having a tree removal service come in to do the job. This includes looking at surrounding power lines, determining what kind of tree you have, and estimating how tall it is.
Cleaning up any debris from the area or pruning some of the branches yourself can reduce the costs associated with tree removal services significantly. Additionally, if you know when would be the cheapest time for these services (usually during winter), you may be able to negotiate for a better price.
Professional tree removal services sometimes offer additional services such as stump grinding and shredding, so make sure to ask about them too. The average cost for tree removal varies depending on the type and size of the tree, however, there are usually fair prices available from reputable companies.
By doing your research and planning ahead, you can save money on tree removal and get rid of obstacles efficiently.
Tree Removal Cost Factors
It is important to consider several factors when negotiating tree removal costs. The type, size and location of the tree will all impact the project cost. For instance, a tall tree located in a hard to reach area will require more time, labor and equipment than a smaller one in an open space. Furthermore, if there is any cleanup needed after the removal process such as stump grinding or debris hauling services, these should be factored into the cost estimate.
Another factor to consider is the type of tree being removed. Some species may require special cutting methods such as sawing rather than chopping and certain trees may have deeper root systems that require additional care for successful removal. Additionally, some service providers may offer additional specialized services such as tree trimming or pruning for an extra fee.
In order to get an accurate cost estimate for your project it is important to discuss these details with your chosen service provider upfront so you can get a clear understanding of what the final price tag will be. Consulting with a reputable tree removal specialist or expert can also make sure you are getting the best possible deal while ensuring that safety precautions are taken throughout the process.
1. Type of Tree
The type of tree to be removed is an important factor when it comes to estimating the cost of tree removal. Generally speaking, two trees of roughly the same height and trunk diameter will cost about the same to remove, regardless of species.
That said, size is a more reliable determinant of cost than tree type; for example, mature oak trees are typically 60–80 feet tall and will usually cost between $700 and $1300 to remove. Meanwhile, palm trees vary in height depending on species but their trunks aren’t very thick – as such they usually range from $200 to $900 for removal.
It’s also worth noting that some additional services like stump grinding or shredding may add additional costs onto the price of tree removal. When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a professional tree expert or a reputable tree service company who can provide an accurate quote based on your individual situation.
2. Size of the Tree
The size of a tree is an important factor when it comes to determining the cost of its removal. Small trees, typically under 30 feet in height, cost between $150 and $500 for removal. This can include trees such as fruit trees, hawthornes, and silver birches.
Medium-sized trees, including maples and elms that are 30-60 feet tall, typically cost between $600 and $1,000 to remove. Large trees like mature oaks that are 60-80 feet tall usually cost around $800-$1,700 to remove. Trees over 80 feet in height are likely to cost around $1,500-$3,000.
It’s important to keep in mind that tree size is not the only factor affecting removal costs; other factors such as the complexity of the job can also influence pricing. Professional tree removal services will be able to provide you with an accurate quote based on your specific situation.
3. Health or Condition of the Tree
Removing a tree from your property is not something to be taken lightly. Trees, while beautiful and beneficial to the environment, can also pose dangers to your property and loved ones if not properly maintained or in a state of disrepair.
If the tree is diseased or otherwise compromised, it is important to have an inspection performed by a professional tree removal service in order to assess the situation and receive an accurate quote for removal. In some cases, due to the danger posed by the tree, it may be more expensive than removing a healthy tree.
On the other hand, if the tree has already fallen on its own accord you can expect much cheaper rates since there will be less risk involved for the team working on it. The average cost for this type of job is between $100 and $300 depending on the size of the tree and any additional services required such as stump grinding or shredding.
Make sure to do your research before deciding on which service provider is right for you and get a fair price for quality workmanship.
4. Emergency Tree Removal
When a tree falls or leans precariously, emergency tree removal is necessary to prevent further damage. This type of job is more expensive and riskier than a scheduled tree removal, as contractors need to be extra careful not to cause additional damage.
The cost of removing a tree in an emergency situation can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, with prices often increasing after natural disasters due to higher demand for tree removal services. To ensure the best service and price, it is important to research local professional tree removal specialists and ask questions about their experience, types of trees they have removed in the past, and their process for removing the tree safely.
When selecting a contractor for emergency tree removal, make sure that they are properly licensed and insured so that you can be confident that the job will be done correctly and without any additional damages.
5. Multiple Trees
Clearing multiple trees can be expensive, especially if you live in a wooded area. Depending on the tree density, you could end up paying between $500 and $6,000 per acre. When considering a tree removal company, it is important to research their experience and pricing structure.
Make sure that they are experienced in dealing with larger trees and power lines. Ask them to provide an estimate of how much it would cost to remove all of the trees and any additional services such as stump grinding or shredding.
You should also inquire about the cheapest time of year for tree removal, as this could help you save money on the overall cost.
Finally, make sure that the tree company consists of certified arborists or experts in order to ensure a fair price and safe removal process for tall trees.
6. Location
When it comes to tree removal, location is key. Removing a tree in an open, spacious backyard is much easier and less expensive than trying to remove a tree from a difficult area, such as near a fence line, close to the house, or beneath power lines.
The type of tree being removed can also have an impact on the cost and difficulty of the process. For example, a tall oak may require additional services like stump shredding compared to removing a smaller shrub. Hiring professional tree removal services is recommended for difficult locations or large trees as they have the experience and resources necessary for safe and efficient removal.
To get the most out of your money when negotiating with a service provider, be sure to ask questions about their qualifications, experience level with the specific type of tree you are looking to remove, and any special tools or techniques they may need for the job.
7. Cleanup
When it comes to negotiating tree removal, one of the best ways to save money is to handle the cleanup yourself. After a tree has been removed, there will be debris such as fallen twigs and branches that must be cleared away.
Companies usually charge an additional fee for this work, so taking care of it yourself can reduce your overall project total significantly. Most tree removal companies will charge around $70 to haul the tree away and around $95 to put it through a wood chipper.
Taller trees may cost more than average, so make sure you know the approximate height before you approach a company for pricing information. If you’re looking for the cheapest time to remove a tree, consider hiring a professional in autumn or winter when fewer people are looking for this type of service.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to tree removal, the negotiation process is just as important as finding a reliable tree removal service. Make sure that you discuss all of the details before any work begins, so that you don’t have to deal with unpleasant surprises.
Be sure to get in touch with a professional tree removal specialist who can help you determine the type of tree you need to be removed, the average cost for such services, and any additional services available from your service provider.
Remember that when it comes to price, it’s always best to negotiate for a fair price that both parties are comfortable with. With this information in mind, we hope your experience negotiating for tree removal goes smoothly and efficiently!
