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Concrete & Masonryaka: boom pumpaka: line pumpaka: pump truck

Concrete Pump

In Plain English

A machine that pumps liquid concrete through a hose or boom to reach places a concrete truck can't directly discharge.

Definition

A mechanical device that transfers liquid concrete from the truck mixer to the point of placement through a system of pipes or a boom arm, used when direct discharge from the truck is not practical. Boom pumps mount on trucks with a folding articulating arm that can reach over or around obstacles. Line pumps use flexible hoses to reach more confined areas. Pumping requires a mix design with adequate slump and workability.

Why It Matters in Bidding

Pumping is often a separate cost the concrete sub or GC must carry, and forgetting it on a bid can wipe out the pour's margin. Estimators decide between a boom pump and a line pump based on access, reach, and pour volume, then price mobilization plus an hourly or per-yard rate. Pump availability and the required pumpable mix design also affect scheduling and the concrete spec.

Example

Facing a basement slab with no truck access, an estimator prices a boom pump with a four-hour minimum plus mobilization, adds it as a distinct line item in the concrete scope, and confirms the mix design carries enough slump to pump without segregating.

Related Terms

Ready-Mix ConcreteSlump TestFlatworkConcrete Pump

Frequently Asked Questions

Whenever trucks cannot discharge directly at the placement point, such as elevated decks, interior slabs, tight sites, or pours over obstacles. Estimators flag access constraints during the site review and the takeoff, then add pumping as a separate cost rather than assuming chute placement that the site geometry will not allow.
Line pumps generally cost less per pour and suit smaller or confined placements, while boom pumps cost more but place large volumes fast and reach over obstacles. The right choice depends on volume, reach, and access. Estimators weigh the equipment rate against labor savings from faster placement when selecting.
Pumping is typically quoted with a mobilization or setup charge plus an hourly rate or per-cubic-yard rate, often with a minimum. Estimators get a quote from the pumping vendor or include the sub's pumping line, then add it to the placement scope separate from the ready-mix material cost.

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