If a concrete truck cannot get close to your pour, you will need a pump. The two main types are boom pumps and line pumps. Choosing the right one saves time, money and stress on the day. Here is how they compare.
What Is a Boom Pump?
A boom pump is mounted on a truck with a hydraulic, folding arm (the boom). The operator positions the end hose precisely over the pour, reaching over houses, walls and scaffolding. Large booms can reach around 75 m depending on the machine.
What Is a Line Pump?
A line (ground) pump pushes concrete through steel or rubber pipes laid along the ground. The pipeline can be routed around obstacles, along side passages and even through buildings, and line pumps can push concrete over long horizontal distances.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Boom pump | Line pump | |
|---|---|---|
| How it reaches | Over obstacles with a folding arm | Along the ground through pipework |
| Best for | Large slabs, upper floors, pouring over buildings | Rear extensions, basements, narrow access, long routes |
| Speed | Often faster for big pours | Steady output, ideal for smaller pours |
| Set-up space | Needs room for the truck and outriggers | Compact unit; pipework does the travelling |
| Disruption | Minimal: nothing runs through the property | Pipes may cross gardens or hallways (protected) |
Which Should You Choose?
- Pouring over a house or high wall? Boom pump.
- Terraced house with a rear extension and no side access? Line pump through the house or passage.
- Large commercial slab with good road access? Boom pump.
- Basement or long, winding route? Line pump.
Booking Tips
- Measure the distance from the road to the pour point.
- Check for overhead cables, trees and parking restrictions.
- Order a pumpable mix, usually S3 slump or higher. See slump classes explained.
- Book the pump and concrete together so they arrive in sequence.
Explore our concrete pump hire and line pump hire services, or read the full concrete pump hire guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a line pump cheaper than a boom pump?
Costs depend on duration, distance and volume. Ask us to quote both if you are unsure.
Can a boom pump reach my back garden?
Often, if there is space at the front for the truck and the reach is within the boom’s range. Otherwise a line pump is the answer.
Need Concrete Delivered in London?
Call 020 8129 0605 or 07723 319888, email sales@metro-ready-mix.com or request a free quote.