How much does it cost to hire a crop-spraying drone per hectare?

If you’re wondering “How much does it cost to hire a crop-spraying drone per hectare?”, this guide provides a detailed breakdown - including rental prices, cost factors, regional variations, and practical advice for choosing the right service.

Chi phí thuê máy bay phun thuốc trừ sâu bao nhiêu 1 ha?


Why more farmers are looking for drone-spraying rental prices

As smart agriculture becomes mainstream, many farmers and agribusinesses are switching from manual spraying to UAV (drone) technology. The most common question is: “How much does it cost to hire a crop-spraying drone per hectare?” - since cost directly impacts investment planning, especially for large-scale farms. Price differences between regions and service providers also influence cost-effectiveness decisions.


5 key factors that determine drone-spraying costs

Type of crop

Each crop requires different spray volumes and techniques. Tree crops (like durian, mango, coffee) need higher power and skilled operators → higher rental costs compared to rice or vegetables.

Terrain and difficulty

Flat terrain is easier and cheaper to spray. Hilly or windy areas require specialized drones → higher service fees.

Drone type and technology

The cost varies by drone model (4-, 6-, or 8-rotor), obstacle sensors, and RTK positioning systems. The more advanced the drone, the higher the precision-and cost.

Spray area

The larger the area, the lower the cost per hectare:

  • < 1 ha: ₫350,000–₫500,000
  • 2–5 ha: ₫250,000–₫350,000/ha
  • 5 ha: from ₫200,000/ha

Region

Prices in the Mekong Delta and Central Highlands are generally lower than in the Southeast due to higher service availability and lower transport costs.


Detailed drone rental prices by area

Drone rental cost per hectare (2024 reference)

Area size

Average cost

Notes

< 1 ha

₫400,000 – ₫500,000/ha

Includes transport fees

1 – 3 ha

₫300,000 – ₫400,000/ha

Negotiable

5 – 10 ha

₫200,000 – ₫300,000/ha

Discount for large areas

> 10 ha

< ₫200,000/ha

Contract-based pricing

Price by crop type

  • Rice: ₫250,000 – ₫300,000/ha
  • Vegetables: ₫280,000 – ₫320,000/ha
  • Industrial crops (coffee, pepper): ₫350,000 – ₫450,000/ha
  • Tall fruit trees (durian, avocado, mango): ₫400,000 – ₫600,000/ha

Full-service rental (with operator)

If you don’t have UAV DJI skills, most providers offer packages including:

  • Drone + pilot
  • Pesticides (optional)
  • → ₫500,000 – ₫700,000/ha - slightly higher but safer and more efficient.

Pros and cons of hiring drone-spraying services

Advantages

  • Replaces up to 20 manual workers per drone
  • Precise and consistent spraying - saves chemicals
  • Fast: 10–15 ha/day per drone on average
  • Safe: no direct chemical exposure for workers

Drawbacks

  • Higher cost for small areas
  • Weather-dependent (wind or rain prevents flying)
  • Requires experienced operators
  • Technical risks (GPS errors, crashes with cheap drones)

Which rental option suits your farming model?

Smallholder farms

→ Combine with neighbors to share costs. Use compact drones, ~₫400K–₫500K/ha.

Medium farms or cooperatives

→ Sign seasonal contracts for ~₫300K/ha. Use stable 6-rotor models.

Tall or dense tree crops

→ Hire specialized drones and certified pilots. ₫500K–₫600K/ha, but far more effective than manual spraying.


Regulations and regional price comparison

Do you need a license?

  • If operating drones >25 kg yourself → register flights with the Ministry of Defense (Operations Department).
  • For full-service rentals, the provider handles all paperwork.

Average cost by region

Region

Price/ha

Notes

Mekong Delta

₫250,000 – ₫300,000

Many providers, easy to negotiate

Central Highlands

₫270,000 – ₫350,000

More challenging terrain

Southeast Vietnam

₫300,000 – ₫400,000

Higher due to limited supply


Final summary

Hiring a crop-spraying drone typically costs ₫250,000–₫500,000 per hectare, depending on crop type, terrain, and service package. It’s a modern, cost-efficient solution that fits the trend of smart agriculture.

  • Small farms: share rental costs with nearby farmers.
  • Large farms: invest in long-term or full-service contracts for better efficiency.

Review regional rates and service quality to choose the best option for your cultivation model.


FAQs about drone-spraying rentals

Can I rent a drone without an operator?

Yes, but you must have drone-pilot skills and required flight permits for large models.

Does the rental price include transport costs?

Not always - extra fees may apply for remote or hard-to-access areas.

Should I rent or buy my own drone?

If your farm is under 10 ha and spraying is infrequent, renting is more economical.

Do rental services offer night spraying?

Rarely. Due to safety and visibility concerns, nighttime spraying can cost 20–30% more.

Can drones spray organic or biological pesticides?

Yes, but nozzle type and spray rate must be adjusted to prevent clogging and ensure effectiveness.