These days almost every industry that could benefit from drones has, at the very least, considered its wide range of offerings, but like most new innovations, the cost of entry can be daunting. Thankfully, in 2022, with more than a decade of adoption, innovation and evolution, these tech tools recognized for their precision, flexibility, speed and efficiency offer a wide range of flexibility in the pricing department as well.
Generally speaking here in North America, the cost of a drone can range anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000 depending on the type and purpose of the drone.
Drones for highly specialized purposes can spike to tens of thousands of dollars, but they are typically used to generate income as part of improved operations.
The cost of the drone device coupled with the extra accessories for the effective running of operations can seem to make drone services expensive, especially if the task requires a highly skilled remote pilot - but again, these costs are often still less than alternative, outdated traditional methods.
When determining costs for your own needs, there are a few things to consider:
Factors Influencing the Cost of Drone Services
Drone Model
Like anything, different models vary in cost based on their features and abilities with some models built to be best suited to specific tasks or operations. Unique, complex or difficult services requiring top-level models will cost more than older versions or drones built for casual recreational purposes.
Level of Expertise
There have to be some compensation levels for the wealth of experience a drone service provider brings to the table. Hiring someone capable of accessing tight spaces and complicated terrain will cost more than someone capable of seeding a field - but both require specialized training.
Travel Surcharge
In situations where the service provider has to travel out of her operation base to the location, there will definitely be an extra charge on the drone services - but when you consider the costs of transporting, unloading and setting up a drone compared to trucks, ATVs and human resources, the costs in this area are typically much lower than traditional solutions.
Insurance, Certification and Registration
Drone service providers insure, certify and register their drones, but these costs are built into the cost of service like any other equipment service provider. Those looking to fly recreationally or to start their own business would need to take this into consideration.
Accessories
Just like your Mac laptop or Ford truck, there are a ton of hardware and software extras that can be added to drones to equip them to do something specific or improve their strength in a specific area - these costs can add up, especially if you have several unique needs.
Hiring Professionals Services Lowers the Cost
Drones can be expensive devices to own and maintain, and the costs of training add up as well.
Fortunately, there are professionals available that take all the stress of learning off your plate, offering a wide range of drone service options you can leverage within your operations without a large initial investment.
Initial drone costs can be expensive, however, the long-term cost savings, size and large equipment it replaces is where the real benefits shine. Schedule a meeting with us, and we will show you why we are the most reliable and successful Remotely Piloted Aerial Application Systems company in the industry. Contact us today!