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Driver says our gravel driveway is too soft. What's the minimum ground bearing?

Sam O.asked 0 viewsDelivery, Placement & ServicingTruck accessPlacementDelivery and servicingService visitDriveway

Last week the vacuum truck got stuck in the gravel on our driveway when the driver came for the service visit. He said the ground was too soft to support the truck's weight. We have one standard portable toilet for a bathroom renovation that's going to last another month. The driveway is crushed gravel over dirt, and it's been raining a lot here in Portland. The driver managed to get unstuck, but now the rental company says we need to fix the access or they might not service it. What's the minimum ground bearing pressure needed for a vacuum truck? Do I need to put down road base or plywood, or is there a simpler fix?

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Luis A.Bozeman, MT

A vacuum truck needs ground with a minimum bearing capacity of 25 to 30 pounds per square inch (psi) to avoid getting stuck. Your gravel driveway likely became too soft from the rain, reducing its load-bearing strength. The rental company requires reliable truck access for every service visit, or they may mark it as a missed service and bill for the trip.

For a simple fix, lay down sheets of 3/4-inch thick plywood or OSB to create a temporary path for the truck tires. This spreads the weight and prevents sinking. If the soft spot is large, consider adding a layer of compacted road base or crushed rock for a more permanent solution. Communicate with the driver before the next service to confirm the access is ready. A standard portable toilet like yours typically needs weekly service, but weather and use can require adjustments.

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