1 Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Insight Analysis
The global vacuum truck and Hydrovac truck market size is expected to reach $1544.86 million by 2025, with a CAGR of 4.50% from 2025 to 2033
A vacuum truck or vacuum tanker is a tank truck that has a pump and a tank. The pump is designed to pneumatically suck liquids, sludges, slurries, or the like from a location (often underground) into the tank of the truck. The objective is to enable transport of the liquid material via road to another location. Vacuum trucks transport the collected material to a treatment or disposal site, for example a sewage treatment plant.
A Hydrovac Truck is a piece of equipment that uses high-pressure water to cut and liquefy the soil, while simultaneously using high volume vacuum to remove the soil from the excavation. Both fresh water and soil from the excavation are contained in the typically truck mounted unit.
Figure Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2025-2033)
2 Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
Infrastructure investment and accelerated urbanization
The increasing urbanization rate and the need to renovate old urban pipelines around the world have driven the demand for efficient construction equipment in municipal and transportation fields. For example, due to the aging of underground pipelines in North America and Europe, vacuum trucks and hydraulic excavation trucks are frequently used for pipeline repair and maintenance; emerging Asian markets (such as China and India) have adopted such equipment in road construction and underground facility development to improve construction efficiency due to rapid urbanization. The government’s continued investment in infrastructure (such as the U.S. Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) further drives market growth.
Diversified demand in the industrial sector
In industrial scenarios, the demand for material cleaning and hazardous waste treatment in industries such as chemicals, electricity, and mining continues to grow. Hydraulic excavation trucks are widely used in scenarios such as oil and gas pipeline laying and chemical plant tank area cleaning due to their non-destructive excavation characteristics, avoiding the damage of traditional mechanical excavation to underground pipelines. In addition, stricter environmental regulations require companies to adopt safer and less polluting cleaning methods, driving market demand for high-end equipment.
Technological innovation and equipment upgrades
Manufacturers continue to launch intelligent and multifunctional equipment, such as smart cantilevers with integrated sensors (which can detect overhead obstacles) and hot water heating systems (suitable for frozen soil excavation in cold regions), to improve equipment applicability and operational safety. For example, Alamo Group’s Vacall series trucks are equipped with wireless remote control and heat circulation systems to adapt to complex working conditions; Federal Signal’s Guzzler series achieves precise operations and reduces energy consumption through a multi-flow water pump system.
Enhanced environmental protection and safety standards
Hydraulic excavation trucks use water and air as the main operating media, which is more environmentally friendly than traditional mechanical excavation and is in line with the global trend of emission reduction. For example, the EU Sustainable Infrastructure Act requires construction equipment to reduce carbon emissions and promotes hydraulic excavation trucks to replace traditional diesel machinery. At the same time, non-contact excavation reduces the risk of casualties, meets the safety standards of agencies such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), and prompts companies to update their equipment.
Demand release in emerging markets
Industrialization and infrastructure waves in regions such as Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa have brought incremental markets. For example, India’s “smart city” plan promotes the renewal of municipal equipment, South Africa’s mineral development drives the demand for industrial vacuum trucks, and Southeast Asian countries (such as Vietnam and Indonesia) use hydraulic excavation technology in transportation infrastructure to shorten construction periods.
High initial cost and operating cost
The purchase cost of vacuum trucks and hydraulic excavation trucks is significantly higher than that of traditional equipment (such as ordinary excavators), and small and medium-sized enterprises face financial pressure. For example, a high-end hydraulic excavation truck can cost more than $500,000, and the maintenance cost is high (such as regular replacement of vacuum pumps and maintenance of high-pressure water pipes). In addition, restrictions on equipment weight and emission standards in some regions (such as the European carbon emissions trading system) increase operating costs.
Technical barriers and supply chain challenges
Core components (such as high-power vacuum pumps and high-pressure water pipes) rely on a few suppliers, resulting in a fragile supply chain. For example, 70% of the world’s high-performance vacuum pumps are dominated by companies such as Busch Vacuum Solutions in the United States, and there was a shortage of parts during the epidemic. Emerging companies need to break through technical patent barriers (such as Alamo Group’s thermal circulation system patent), and R&D investment is large and the cycle is long.
Differences in regional market maturity
The North American and European markets have entered a mature stage, with slower growth; while emerging markets are limited by technology awareness and budget, and tend to purchase low-end equipment, leading to market differentiation. For example, some African countries still rely mainly on traditional manual excavation, and have low acceptance of high-end equipment, requiring long-term market education.
Environmental and regulatory restrictions
Some regions have strict restrictions on construction noise and wastewater discharge. For example, Japan’s “Noise Control Law” requires that the noise of construction equipment in urban areas be less than 75 decibels, forcing companies to upgrade noise reduction technology; Europe’s “Wastewater Treatment Directive” stipulates that excavation wastewater must be treated before it can be discharged, increasing the complexity and cost of operations.
3 Technological Innovations in the Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market
Integration of intelligent and automated technologies
Intelligent safety system: integrated sensors and AI algorithms, such as Alamo Group’s VacAll series equipped with obstacle detection sensors, automatically avoiding cables and other dangerous objects during cantilever operation; Hi-Vac’s X-Vac series uses GPS positioning to achieve operation path planning and improve efficiency.
Remote operation and Internet of Things (IoT): Federal Signal launched a remote control platform that allows operators to control trucks through tablets to reduce the risk of exposure to on-site personnel; KOKS’s MegaVac series uses IoT to monitor equipment status in real time, and predictive maintenance reduces downtime.
New energy and environmental protection technology
Electrification transformation: Some companies have launched electric or hybrid models, such as Cappellotto’s electric vacuum trucks, which reduce diesel consumption and carbon emissions and are suitable for indoor or low-emission area operations.
Water resource recycling: Hydraulic excavation trucks are equipped with wastewater filtration systems (such as Ledwell’s Revolution series) to achieve on-site purification and reuse of excavation wastewater, in line with environmental regulations. Multifunctional modular design
The equipment can quickly switch operating modes, such as vacuum trucks can be transformed into hydraulic excavation trucks by adding high-pressure water pump modules, or equipped with removable water tanks to adapt to different working conditions. Holden Industries’ X-Cavator™ supports switching between air and hydraulic excavation modes to meet the needs of multiple scenarios such as urban pipeline repair and industrial dredging.
Material and structural innovation
The use of lightweight and high-strength materials (such as aluminum alloy tanks) reduces the weight of the vehicle body and improves fuel efficiency; corrosion-resistant coating technology (such as Aerosun’s epoxy primer process) extends the service life of the equipment in acidic and alkaline environments, and is suitable for highly corrosive scenarios such as chemical waste cleaning.
Heading companies expand market share through mergers and acquisitions
Alamo Group: By acquiring brands such as Vacall and Rivard, integrating technical resources, and consolidating its market position in North America and Europe, its market share reached 13.1% in 2021.
Federal Signal: Acquired OSW Equipment & Repair to enhance its capabilities in the field of dump truck bodies and customized equipment, with revenue increasing by 8.76% year-on-year in 2022.
Regional market integration and emerging market layout
Cappellotto: By acquiring local European companies, expanding manufacturing bases in Italy and Germany, the European market share will increase to 6.23% in 2022.
Internationalization of Chinese companies: Aerosun entered the Southeast Asian market through a joint venture model, cooperating with local Indonesian companies to establish an assembly plant to reduce tariffs and transportation costs.
4 Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Size by Type
Vacuum Trucks are designed for a wide range of applications, including waste management, industrial cleaning, and municipal services. These trucks are equipped with powerful vacuum systems capable of sucking up liquids, sludges, and other materials from various locations and transporting them to treatment or disposal sites. In 2025, the market revenue for Vacuum Trucks is expected to be $1,144.24 million USD, accounting for approximately 74.07% of the total market revenue. This segment’s growth is driven by the increasing need for efficient waste management solutions and the expansion of industrial activities that require reliable material handling equipment.
Hydrovac Trucks, on the other hand, are specialized vehicles that use high-pressure water to break up soil and debris, which is then vacuumed into a holding tank. These trucks are particularly useful for excavation, utility locating, and environmental cleanup. In 2025, the market revenue for Hydrovac Trucks is projected to be $400.62 million USD, representing about 25.93% of the total market revenue. The growth of this segment is attributed to the increasing demand for non-destructive excavation methods that minimize the risk of damaging underground utilities and infrastructure.
Table Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Size by Type in 2025
|
Type |
Market Size (M USD) 2025 |
|---|---|
|
Vacuum Truck |
1144.24 |
|
Hydrovac Truck |
400.62 |
5 Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Size by Application
In terms of different applications, the industrial sector remains a significant contributor. In 2025, the market revenue for industrial applications is forecasted to be 446.09 million USD. This application area encompasses a wide range of activities in industries such as chemical, power, and mining. For example, in chemical plants, these trucks are used for the safe and efficient handling of hazardous materials and waste. In the power industry, they assist in the maintenance of power plants, including cleaning up debris and handling coolant – related materials.
The excavation application also holds a substantial share. In 2025, the market revenue for excavation is expected to be 217.97 million USD. Hydrovac trucks, in particular, are increasingly favored in excavation projects due to their non – destructive nature. They are used in tasks like laying underground pipelines, where precision and the avoidance of damage to existing infrastructure are crucial. This application has seen growth as construction projects around the world demand more advanced and safer excavation methods.
The municipal sector is another major player in the market. In 2025, the market revenue for municipal applications is estimated to be 642.90 million USD. Municipalities utilize vacuum trucks and hydrovac trucks for a variety of tasks, including sewage system maintenance, street cleaning, and water and gas pipeline repair. With the continuous development of urban areas and the need for efficient municipal services, the demand for these vehicles in the municipal sector is steadily increasing.
Table Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Size by Application in 2025
|
Application |
Market Size (M USD) 2025 |
|---|---|
|
Industrial |
446.09 |
|
Excavation |
217.97 |
|
Municipal |
642.90 |
|
Others |
237.90 |
6 Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Size by Region
In 2025, the demand for vacuum trucks and hydrovac trucks in North America reached 4909 units. North America has long been a mature and leading market in this industry. The region’s well – developed infrastructure, including extensive road networks, complex underground utility systems, and large – scale industrial facilities, drives the high demand.
In the United States, strict environmental regulations and safety standards play a crucial role. For example, in the oil and gas industry, which is prevalent in states like Texas and Alaska, vacuum trucks and hydrovac trucks are essential for pipeline maintenance, well – site cleanup, and the safe handling of hazardous materials. These vehicles help companies comply with regulations regarding waste disposal and spill prevention. Moreover, the construction industry in North America, which is constantly engaged in infrastructure upgrades and new building projects, also relies on these trucks for excavation and site preparation tasks. The non – destructive nature of hydrovac trucks is particularly valued in urban construction projects to avoid damage to existing underground utilities.
Europe had a demand of 4629 units in 2025. The European market is characterized by its focus on environmental sustainability and technological innovation. Stringent EU regulations on emissions and waste management have spurred the adoption of advanced vacuum and hydrovac trucks.
Countries like Germany and the Netherlands, known for their high – tech industries and strict environmental policies, have a significant demand for these vehicles. In the wastewater management sector, vacuum trucks are used for the efficient collection and transportation of sewage and sludge. In addition, hydrovac trucks are increasingly being used in the expansion and maintenance of Europe’s extensive railway networks. They enable precise excavation around railway tracks without causing disruptions to the infrastructure. European manufacturers also play a vital role in driving the market. They are constantly innovating in terms of vehicle design, incorporating features such as lower – emission engines and more efficient vacuum systems to meet the region’s high standards.
China’s demand for vacuum trucks and hydrovac trucks reached 2298 units in 2025. China has been experiencing rapid urbanization and infrastructure development in recent years, which has been a major catalyst for the growth of this market.
The country’s large – scale urban renewal projects, including subway construction in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, require the use of hydrovac trucks for safe and precise excavation. Vacuum trucks are also widely used in municipal waste management, especially in dealing with the increasing volume of urban waste. Additionally, as China’s industrial sector continues to expand and upgrade, there is a growing need for these trucks in industrial cleaning and waste handling in sectors such as chemicals and manufacturing. Chinese manufacturers are also becoming more competitive in the global market, with a focus on cost – effective solutions without sacrificing quality. This has not only met the domestic demand but also contributed to exports in recent years.
Figure Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Demand (Units) by Region in 2025
7 Global Vacuum Truck and Hydrovac Truck Market Analysis by Major Players
Alamo Group
Company Profile: Alamo Group, established in 1969 and headquartered in Seguin, Texas, USA, is a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality agricultural equipment and infrastructure maintenance equipment. The company operates multiple brands, including Vacall Industries, Rivard, and Super Products, which specialize in producing vacuum trucks and hydrovac trucks.
Business Overview: Alamo Group offers a comprehensive range of products catering to farms, ranches, and governmental and industrial markets. Their product portfolio includes truck and tractor-mounted mowing equipment, street sweepers, leaf vacuums, snow removal equipment, excavators, vacuum trucks, forestry equipment, chippers, and other industrial equipment. The company is committed to providing high-quality after-market parts and services to support their extensive product line.
Product Offered: Alamo Group’s vacuum truck and hydrovac truck offerings include models such as the VacAll AllExcavate AE1213 Hydro Excavation Truck and Rivard EXVAC. These products are equipped with advanced features like large-capacity debris tanks, high-pressure water pumps, hot water heaters, and wireless remote controls, making them highly efficient and versatile for various applications.
Federal Signal
Company Profile: Founded in 1901 and headquartered in Elgin, Illinois, USA, Federal Signal Corporation is a leading global designer, manufacturer, and supplier of products and total solutions. The company focuses on providing high-quality equipment to municipal, governmental, industrial, and commercial customers for material handling, infrastructure cleaning, and community protection.
Business Overview: Federal Signal’s products are widely used in municipal services, industrial cleaning, and environmental protection. The company continuously innovates and improves its products to meet the growing demands of its customers. With a global sales network, Federal Signal ensures that its customers have access to reliable and efficient solutions for their material handling and cleaning needs.
Product Offered: Federal Signal’s vacuum truck and hydrovac truck offerings include the Guzzler Guzzcavator and TRUVAC Hydrovac Support Pup. These trucks are designed with powerful hydroexcavation capabilities, multi-flow water pump systems, telescoping vacuum booms, and advanced safety features. They are ideal for applications such as industrial vacuum loading, cold weather digging, debris removal, and utility locating.
Cappellotto
Company Profile: Established in 2000 and headquartered in Italy, Cappellotto S.p.A. is a world leader in the production of truck chassis-mounted equipment. The company specializes in manufacturing equipment for the suction of sewage wastes, high-pressure cleaning of ducts and pipes, and transportation of hazardous materials.
Business Overview: Cappellotto’s products are sold worldwide, and the company is dedicated to providing efficient and reliable solutions to its customers. By continuously innovating and improving its products, Cappellotto aims to help customers increase their work efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Product Offered: Cappellotto’s vacuum truck offerings include the VACUUM TANK, which is designed for the removal of sludge sewage and liquid wastes from sewers and other sources. The tanks are available in carbon or stainless steel and can be mounted on various types of vehicles. These trucks are equipped with advanced vacuum systems and filtration technologies to ensure efficient and safe waste removal and transportation.