John Deere 700J Hourly Rate

[MikePhua]

Introduction
When considering hourly charges for the John Deere 700J dozer, operators balance competitive local rates, machine productivity, and cost recovery. The 700J brings advanced features and performance improvements over older models, warranting higher rates in many regions.
Machine Background
The 700J dozer, built by John Deere’s construction equipment division, is a robust 11½-metric-ton (around 26,000 lb) crawler with an 86 kW (115 hp) PowerTech 6068 engine. Its hydrostatic drivetrain, Total Machine Control (TMC), oscillating undercarriage, six-way blade, and optional integrated grade control position it ahead of older models like the D6C in both control and productivity .
Reported Hourly Rates
Operators familiar with the model offer real-world pricing perspectives:

• One user, comparing to the D6C, suggested charging $165 to $175 per hour for the 700J, citing its superior speed and versatile blade .
  
• Another operator notes that hourly rates vary based on workload consistency—steady weekly hours (40–50 hrs/week for many weeks annually) allow for slightly lower hourly fees, while infrequent use warrants higher rates; he charges $200/hour for his D6 when utilization is low .
  
• Others emphasized that hourly rates often include fuel and operator cost in North America, though terms vary by arranger .
  

Comparable Equipment Pricing
Looking at broader equipment rental data helps benchmark rates:

• A 2007 John Deere 750J LGP (larger dozer) rents for $255/hour including operator and fuel .
  
• A 2002 John Deere 550H (smaller loader) rents for $170/hour including operator and fuel .
  
• A price list also shows a 2014 John Deere 700K (similar class) rental rate at $200/hour .
  

Fuel Cost Insight
Fuel consumption adds to operating cost—Boom & Bucket estimates an hourly fuel cost of $25/hour for the 700J LGP variant . This factor helps define what portion of the rate covers fuel versus other expenses.
Anecdote
One operator from Michigan, upgrading from older “big Cat” machines to the 700J, planned to test rates between $150 to $165 per hour, aiming for fair value within his Upper Michigan market .
Terminology Clarification

• Hydrostatic Drivetrain: Uses hydraulic fluid for infinite speed control and smooth maneuvering.
  
• Total Machine Control (TMC): Allows operators to customize response characteristics—including steering, deceleration, and blade sensitivity.
  
• LGP (Low Ground Pressure): A configuration with wider tracks to reduce ground pressure—important for soft terrain.
  

Summary of Cost Components
Here’s a snapshot of costs affecting hourly pricing:

• Fuel: Approximately $25/hour .
  
• Operator & Fuel Included Rates: Comparable machines range from $170–255/hour .
  
• User-Reported Rates: $165–175/hour as starting point; flexibility depending on utilization and market .
  

Recommendations for Operators

• Consider targeting $160–180/hour as a realistic range for your region—addressing both comparable market rates and machine productivity.
  
• Adjust rates based on utilization: lower for consistent work, higher for sporadic projects.
  
• Clarify in quotes whether operator, fuel, and transportation are included—industry standards differ by contract.
  
• Use fuel cost estimates (around $25/hr) to separate variable fuel charges from rental rate.
  

Conclusion
The 700J’s superior control, hydrostatic drivetrain, and modern operator interfaces justify a premium over older dozers. With comparable equipment renting for $170 to $255 per hour (operator and fuel included) and user experiences citing $165–175/hour for the 700J, targeting rates in the $160–180/hour range is both practical and competitive. Just be sure to account for fuel and operator inclusion, and adjust for workload consistency.