Choosing the right concrete pump for your project isn’t just about size or distance—it’s about the full picture: site layout, crew experience, concrete mix, hose setup, finishers, and more. At Premier Concrete Pumping, we don’t just show up and pour—we consult, plan, and recommend the best pump for the job so your crew isn’t slowed down and your project stays on schedule.
Why the Right Pump Matters
Concrete pumping is a logistical game. If your hose line is too long or the boom can’t reach, you’re wasting time and money. A miscalculation can lead to:
Delays in pouring
Poor finish quality
Crew fatigue
Site congestion
Higher costs
The right pump eliminates all of that.
Types of Concrete Pumps Explained
Boom Pumps
Boom pumps use a remote-controlled robotic arm to place concrete accurately over long distances. These are perfect for:
Large commercial pours
Residential foundations
High-rise projects
Areas with restricted access
Types we offer:
32m, 38m, and 47m boom trucks
4-section vs. 5-section booms (5-section offers more maneuverability on tighter sites)
Explore our boom pump options on our equipment page.
Line Pumps (Trailer Pumps)
Best for smaller residential jobs or where boom access is restricted, line pumps use flexible hoses to move concrete around obstacles.
Use cases:
Basements
Sidewalks
Backyards with tight access
We’ll help you assess if the volume and line length justify using a trailer pump.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pump
1. Site Access
Can we drive in with a boom truck? Or do we need to pump from the curb through a 200 ft. line?
We always ask:
“What are we up against?”
That means:
Backyards with fences?
Power lines overhead?
Trees or other obstructions?
We’ll recommend a 4-section boom if space is tight or a line pump if we can’t get close.
2. Concrete Volume & Speed
If you’re pouring:
Under 20m³? A line pump may suffice.
40m³+ and need speed? Go boom.
A boom pump is faster and puts less strain on your crew. When speed matters, we prioritize it.
3. Aggregate Size vs. Hose Size
This is a critical but overlooked factor. Choosing a hose size that matches your concrete mix prevents clogging and jobsite chaos.
General rule:
| Hose Line | Max Aggregate |
|---|---|
| 2″ | 0 mm (no stone) |
| 3″ | 10 mm |
| 4″ | 20 mm |
We’ve even created a visual aggregate size chart to help our clients get it right.
4. Crew Experience & Finisher Needs
We ask:
“What’s the finishing team like?”
If you’re working with a newer crew, we may recommend something easier to manage—like a boom with a shorter arm or slower pace. We always tailor our pump choice to your team’s comfort level.
5. Pour Area (Slabs vs. Walls)
Pouring a wall? Then the boom’s agility matters more.
Pouring a slab? You may need more reach across flat ground or a longer line.
We also help with:
Calculating pour area
Recommending hose length
Planning hose layout for minimal movement
How Premier Concrete Pumping Helps Contractors Choose the Right Pump
We don’t expect you to know exactly what pump you need. That’s our job.
Here’s how we make it simple:
✅ Ask the Right Questions
From “How big is the pour?” to “What finishers are on site?”, our pre-job call covers it all. We plan for what most companies overlook.
✅ Match the Mix to the Hose
Using 2-inch lines with exposed aggregate? We’ll tell you it won’t work before it clogs. You’ll get a clear, visual explanation of what pump works with your mix.
✅ On-Site Adjustments
We’ve had projects where contractors requested a trailer pump—but we recommended a boom instead and saved them hours of labor. And we’ve done the reverse when boom access wasn’t possible.
✅ Recommend From Experience
With hundreds of projects under our belt, we know what works. Our field team provides real-world guidance—especially when working with specialty finishes, tight access, or fast-moving jobs.
Internal Links to Explore:
FAQ: Choosing the Right Concrete Pump
Q: What pump do I need for a small residential backyard job?
A: Most likely a line pump, especially if access is tight. But let’s chat—site layout and aggregate still matter.
Q: What if I order the wrong pump?
A: Premier will call before the job and advise the best option. We’ll catch it before it’s a problem.
Q: How much hose can you run?
A: We’ve done 300 ft.+ setups, but each foot adds backpressure. We’ll design a setup that won’t kill your crew.
Q: Do I need to prep anything before you arrive?
A: Just give us accurate site info. We handle the logistics and bring the pump that fits.
Q: What’s the difference between a 4-section and 5-section boom?
A: A 5-section boom folds tighter and is more flexible in tight sites. Great for inside forms and narrow backyards.
Ready to Book the Right Pump?
Let Premier Concrete Pumping help you pour with confidence. Whether you’re doing an ICF wall, slab, basement, or a pool deck—our team will guide you to the right solution.
📞 Call us today or get in touch here.