Comparing Traditional Concrete Pouring Methods to Skid Steer Concrete Hoppers, Why the Hawley Hopper Makes Sense

Evaluating Concrete Pouring Techniques on Today's Jobsites

Concrete pouring has traditionally involved various methods, each with its own challenges and costs. Wheelbarrows, hand pouring, pump trucks, mixer buckets, and conveyors are common solutions, but they often require high labor effort, involve expense, or add operational complexity.

For contractors managing footings, foundations, walls, forms, or tight access placements, selecting the right tool improves efficiency, safety, and profitability.

Traditional Pouring Methods and Their Drawbacks

• Wheelbarrows and hand pouring require significant physical effort and time, often leading to fatigue and higher labor costs.

• Pump trucks handle large volumes quickly but require skilled operators, scheduling, and often have high rental fees, making them less cost-effective for smaller pours.

• Concrete mixer buckets mix and pour on-site, but add complexity, need specialized training, and can affect concrete quality if not used properly.

• Conveyor belts and chutes assist in filling difficult areas but require setup time and add logistical challenges.

How Skid Steer Concrete Hoppers Improve Jobsite Workflow

Skid steer concrete hoppers provide a practical middle ground between manual labor and costly machinery. Attached to skid steers or compact tractors, hoppers like the Hawley Hopper offer:

• Faster, precise pours operable via hydraulic controls from inside the cab

• Labor reduction, lowering installer fatigue and crushing injury risk

• Cost savings by reducing dependency on pump trucks and additional labor

• Versatility for handling small to medium pours across diverse jobsite conditions

• Easy maintenance with durable construction and precision-cut parts for long-term reliability

What Sets the Hawley Hopper Apart from Competitors

Brands such as Outdoorica, CID, and Blue Diamond offer well-made skid steer concrete hoppers, but the Hawley Hopper emphasizes:

• American-made craftsmanship, handcrafted in Sand Lake, Michigan, for quality control and quick delivery

• Heavy-duty 7GA hot rolled steel construction with precise joint configuration and geometry for superior durability

• Universal Skid Steer Quick Attach (SSQA) compatible with most skid steers and compact tractors for hassle-free connection

• Hydraulic gate assembly, featuring an all welded chute and a 10 inch by 10 inch door easily operated using in-cab auxiliary hydraulic controls for accurate, smooth concrete placement

• CNC-cut components assuring maximum accuracy, reliability, and professional finish

• Simple maintenance designed to allow fast replacement of key off the shelf parts and minimize downtime

• Labor and cost savings by reducing the need for pump trucks and extra manpower, lowering costs and risk of acute and chronic injuries

• Local owner-operated support dedicated to helping Midwest contractors complete projects efficiently

Concrete Hopper Specifications

• Capacity: 3/4 cubic yard, ideal for small to medium pours and hard-to-reach areas

• Weight: Approximately 495 pounds

• Overall dimensions: 82 inches length, 53.5 inches width, 30.5 inches height

• Material thickness: 7GA steel body construction, 3/8" quick attach and 1/2" door

• Door opening: 10 inches wide by 10 inches high

• Chute mouth opening width: 10 inches

• Lift capacity requirements: Minimum 3,500 pounds required lift capacity needed

  
  

For contractors seeking to improve efficiency and safety on concrete pours, the Hawley Hopper offers a proven, reliable solution. Contact Hawley Services today to discuss your project requirements, request a quote, or schedule a demonstration. Discover how this rugged, American-made hopper can simplify concrete placement and save costs.

See the full Hopper Specification Sheet here.