Rubber Track Cost Guide — What to Expect & How to Save
"How much do rubber tracks cost?" is one of the most common questions we get. The answer depends on track size, tread pattern, and whether you buy OEM or aftermarket. Here's a transparent breakdown.
How much do rubber tracks cost by size?
Typical price ranges for aftermarket OEM-spec rubber tracks (per single track):
- 180mm–230mm (7"–9") mini excavator: $170–$350
- 300mm (12") mini excavator: $400–$700
- 320mm (13") CTL/skid steer: $600–$900
- 400mm (16") CTL/skid steer: $700–$1,100
- 450mm (18") CTL/skid steer: $800–$1,400
- 381mm/457mm (15"/18") multi-terrain NMC: $900–$1,500
OEM tracks from a dealer typically cost 30% to 60% more than equivalent aftermarket tracks. A pair of OEM 450x86x56 tracks from a CAT dealer can run $3,000+. The same spec from TrackTECH is significantly less.
What affects rubber track price?
- Track size: Larger tracks use more raw material — 450mm tracks cost more than 300mm
- Tread pattern: Specialty patterns like X-Terrain may carry a slight premium over standard C-Block
- Construction quality: Continuous steel cord vs jointed cord, virgin rubber vs recycled, forged vs cast guides
- Guide type: Standard block guide tracks are most common. Specialty guides (N, W, T) may have limited availability
- Quantity: Fleet orders typically qualify for volume pricing
How do I calculate cost per hour?
Cost per hour = (Track pair cost) ÷ (Total hours of life)
Example: A pair of 450x86x56 tracks at $2,200 total lasting 1,800 hours = $1.22 per operating hour. That's less than a gallon of diesel. Tracks are often the best-value wear component on your machine when calculated this way.
Cheap tracks that fail at 600 hours cost $3.67 per hour — 3x more expensive than quality tracks that last 1,800 hours. The cheapest track is almost never the lowest cost per hour.
How to get the best value on rubber tracks
- Buy aftermarket from a reputable supplier with continuous steel cord construction
- Match tread pattern to your jobsite — wrong tread wears faster and costs more per hour
- Maintain proper tension — over/under-tensioning kills tracks prematurely
- Replace undercarriage parts (sprocketss, idlerss, rollerss) on schedule
- Buy in pairs — running one new track and one worn track causes uneven machine behavior
- request a quote for fleet pricing on 4+ tracks
TrackTECH tracks include free shipping and a 24-month warranty on every order. Use the Track Finder to see pricing for your exact size, or call (850) 816-7898.