The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has released its latest contracting prices survey, with results showing a general rise.
Importantly, these prices have been calculated with red diesel at 70p/litre and without AdBlue. As fuel prices continue to fluctuate due to the conflict in the Middle East, the NAAC recommends that a surcharge be added when prices exceed this.
It reflects responses from across the UK, so an average price has been found. This is to give operators a guideline from which to calculate their own pricing. Members can use the NAAC costing tool, developed by the Anderson Centre.
Commenting, Jill Hewitt, NAAC CEO, said: “This year we asked members whether they plan to put up their prices to reflect increasing costs. The average increase is 4.84%, although there was a wide variation of predicted rises from 0–15%.
“However, the professional service provided by a contractor remains a high priority, ensuring customers can be confident their assets are protected, whether that is cropping, livestock, soil or the environment. This comes at a price, and 2026 rates have generally increased to take account of inflation and employment costs. Transparent, well-calculated costs on both sides will help maintain strong partnerships and ensure both parties benefit.”