By tank size (typical, this area)
- 750 gal: bottom of range
- 1,000 gal: $300–$500
- 1,250 gal: add ~15–25%
- 1,500 gal: add ~30–50%
Add-ons that are legitimate
- Digging to a buried lid: $50–$150 (avoid forever with a riser at $200–$400)
- Heavy sludge / overdue tank: $100–$250 — it takes longer and may need a second trip
- Emergency or after-hours: $150–$300
- Travel beyond the normal radius: per-mile charge, disclosed up front
- Effluent filter cleaning: usually included; ask
Add-ons that aren't. "Enzyme treatments," "bacteria packs," and "field restorers" sold at the truck. Decline them.
How to spend less over time: install a riser, keep a service record, schedule in the off-season, and don't wait for symptoms — an overdue tank costs more to pump and the field pays for the delay.