Bulk vs. Bagged Salt: Which Should You Order?
Truckload bulk salt is the cheapest per tonne, but bags and supersacks win on handling and storage. How to choose for each site.
Most contractors end up using both: bulk salt for lots and roads, bagged product for walkways and small sites. The right mix depends on storage, equipment and how spread out your sites are.
When bulk makes sense
- You have covered storage and a loader.
- Your sites are large lots or roads served by spreader trucks.
- You want the lowest cost per tonne.
When bags or supersacks make sense
- Sites without covered storage.
- Walkways and entrances treated by hand or walk-behind spreaders.
- Crews that need to carry material between sites.
Comparing the options
| Format | Handling | Storage | Cost per tonne |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bulk (truckload) | Loader | Dome or covered pad | Lowest |
| Supersack | Forklift or loader | Pallet space, weatherproof | Medium |
| Bags | By hand | Any dry space | Highest |
