Concrete Batching Plant Comparisons
Side-by-side comparisons to help you choose the right plant for your Australian operation. Honest, data-driven, and independent.
Mobile vs Stationary Batching Plants
🚚 Mobile Batching Plant
- ✓ Relocate between projects
- ✓ Lower upfront investment
- ✓ Minimal foundations required
- ✓ Faster setup (days, not weeks)
- ✗ Lower maximum output
- ✗ Less automation available
🏭 Stationary Batching Plant
- ✓ Highest output (100–180+ m³/hr)
- ✓ Lower cost per m³ at volume
- ✓ Full automation available
- ✓ Better long-term ROI
- ✗ High upfront capital
- ✗ Extensive foundations ($30k–$100k)
Quick Comparison Table
| Factor | Mobile Plant | Stationary Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost (installed) | $80k – $350k | $250k – $1.2M+ |
| Typical output | 20 – 80 m³/hr | 60 – 180+ m³/hr |
| Setup time | 1–3 days to 1–2 weeks | 4–12 weeks |
| Foundation required | Minimal — compacted ground | Extensive reinforced concrete slab |
| Relocation cost | $3k–$15k per move | Prohibitive — essentially permanent |
| Best for | Multiple sites, remote projects | Fixed production facility, high volume |
Which should you choose? Choose mobile if you work across multiple sites, need flexibility, or have lower volume requirements. Choose stationary if you have a permanent production facility, need high output, or are serving a fixed market.
New vs Used Batching Plants
🆕 New Batching Plant
- ✓ 2-5 year comprehensive warranty
- ✓ Modern automation and controls
- ✓ Energy-efficient systems
- ✓ Full manufacturer support
- ✓ Lower maintenance costs (years 1-5)
- ✓ Higher resale value
🔄 Used Batching Plant
- ✓ 50-70% less upfront capital
- ✓ Already depreciated
- ✓ Faster payback at low utilisation
- ✗ No warranty or limited coverage
- ✗ Higher maintenance ($20k–$50k/year)
- ✗ Unknown history — risk of failure
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership Comparison
| Cost Category (5 years) | New Plant | Used Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase + installation | $350k–$550k | $100k–$200k |
| Annual maintenance | $10k–$20k/year | $25k–$50k/year |
| Major unexpected repairs | $5k (under warranty) | $30k–$60k |
| Downtime cost (lost revenue) | $20k–$50k | $100k–$300k |
| Resale value after 5 years | $150k–$250k | $40k–$80k |
| Total 5-year cost (net) | $240k–$350k | $215k–$530k |
Key insight: Despite the lower upfront cost, used plants often cost as much or more over 5 years due to maintenance, repairs, and downtime. The "cheaper" option is frequently the more expensive one long-term.
When used makes sense: Tight budget, you have in-house maintenance capability, short-term project (2-4 years), and can inspect thoroughly before purchase.
When new makes sense: Long-term operation (10+ years), uptime is critical, you want warranty protection and modern efficiency.