Consumer Insights
Uncover trends and behaviors shaping consumer choices today
Procurement Insights
Optimize your sourcing strategy with key market data
Industry Stats
Stay ahead with the latest trends and market analysis.
The global horizontal directional drilling market attained a value of USD 10.61 Billion in 2025 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.80% through 2035. The market is further expected to achieve USD 20.48 Billion by 2035. Rising investments in last-mile fiber connectivity and cross-country gas pipeline upgrades are accelerating demand for HDD rigs capable of long bores, high pulling forces, and real-time geological monitoring for safer underground deployment.
The global market is gaining renewed momentum as equipment manufacturers prioritize automation, better torque control, and precision guidance systems to support large-scale underground utility expansion. A notable development occurred in September 2022 when Vermeer introduced its next-gen D550 HDD rig equipped with an intelligent bore-planning engine and remote-assist diagnostics. This launch is well-timed, considering that fiber deployment hit a record level in 2023 with nine million newly connected homes, reflecting a 13% year-over-year growth, according to the horizontal directional drilling market analysis, a figure that directly amplifies the need for high-capacity HDD rigs equipped with digital monitoring.
Operators are shifting toward machines that reduce downtime and enhance job-site predictability. Drilling system providers are integrating telemetry modules, rig-health monitoring, hybrid hydraulic systems, and bore-path automation that help contractors manage geological complexity with less manual intervention. In November 2024, SLB launched Stream high-speed intelligent telemetry that increases drilling confidence and performance for complex wells. These updates also reflect growing demand from telecom, energy, and water authorities seeking faster project turnaround without compromising environmental standards, accelerating the horizontal directional drilling market value. HDD is also being positioned as the preferred method for urban infrastructure upgrades because it reduces surface disruption and aligns better with stringent municipal permitting norms.
Base Year
Historical Period
Forecast Period
Wells drilled horizontally into tight oil and shale gas formations have seen substantial growth in the United States.
In 2018, horizontal wells made up about 96% of U.S. tight oil production.
The use of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing has increased production of crude oil, lease condensate, and natural gas in United States.
Leading horizontal directional drilling market players are heavily investing in telemetry-enabled rigs, recyclable drilling fluids, and compact urban fleets as municipalities tighten reinstatement and environmental rules. The shift toward multi-utility corridors, large-scale fiber programs, and renewable-related pipeline crossings is creating strong opportunities for vendors offering end-to-end solutions including rigs, fluids, guidance systems, and training under a unified contract.
Partnerships between horizontal directional drilling companies, GIS software providers, and fluid recyclers are also expanding because owners increasingly expect documented bore-path accuracy and reduced waste volumes. This environment favors companies capable of combining robust engineering with advanced data capture, automated steering, and rapid service support. Mid-tier contractors are upgrading older fleets, opening space for vendors delivering retrofit kits, predictive maintenance tools, and flexible financing models aligned with long-term framework contracts.
American Augers, Inc.
American Augers, Inc., established in 1970 and headquartered in West Salem, Ohio, provides large-rig HDD systems designed for long crossings, pipeline installations, and heavy civil programs. The company focuses on rugged rigs, advanced mud pump technology, and high-capacity cleaning systems that support high-torque drilling in complex geology.
Ellingson Companies
Ellingson Companies, founded in 1970 and based in Minnesota, United States, operates as a full-service HDD contractor specializing in telecommunications, water, and energy infrastructure. The company combines geospatial modeling, subsurface risk analysis, and precision-guided drilling to deliver low-impact installations across environmentally sensitive corridors.
Herrenknecht AG
Herrenknecht AG, founded in 1975 and headquartered in Germany, offers premium HDD systems engineered for long-distance pipelines, shore crossings, and technically demanding bores. Known for its high-power rigs and automated drill-string handling, the company integrates advanced downhole tools, gyro-guided navigation, and condition-monitoring systems that enhance accuracy and reduce rework.
Ferguson Michiana Inc.
Ferguson Michiana Inc., established in 1979 and located in Michigan, United States, supplies HDD contractors with drilling tools, mud systems, cutters, and reamers engineered for durability and optimized bore efficiency. The company focuses on high-performance consumables tailored for telecom, municipal, and utility projects requiring frequent, shallow bores.
Other key players in the market include Creighton Rock Drill Ltd., among others.
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
Get in touch with us for a customized solution tailored to your unique requirements and save upto 35%!
In 2025, the market reached an approximate value of USD 10.61 Billion.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.80% between 2026 and 2035.
The market is estimated to witness a healthy growth in the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach USD 20.48 Billion by 2035.
Key strategies driving the market include investing in telemetry, expanding training programs, developing compact rigs for urban work, strengthening fluid recycling partnerships, and co-engineering project-specific tooling solutions to meet evolving utility, telecom, and municipal performance expectations.
Key trends aiding market expansion include rising emphasis on the adoption of eco-friendly drilling mechanisms as well as the increasing research and innovations by the key industry players.
The major regions in the industry are North America, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, Europe, and the Asia Pacific.
The significant technique types of horizontal directional drilling include conventional and rotary steerable system.
The significant components include rigs, pipes, bits, and reamers, among others.
The significant applications of HDD are onshore and offshore.
The key players in the market include American Augers, Inc., Ellingson Companies, Herrenknecht AG, Ferguson Michiana Inc., and Creighton Rock Drill Ltd., among others.
Equipment downtime, fluctuating drilling-fluid regulations, and increasing urban permitting delays pressure project efficiency and margins. Companies also face rising compliance costs, labor shortages, difficult geology risks, and higher expectations for bore-path documentation.
Datasheet
One User
USD 2,499
USD 2,249
tax inclusive*
Single User License
One User
USD 3,999
USD 3,599
tax inclusive*
Five User License
Five User
USD 4,999
USD 4,249
tax inclusive*
Corporate License
Unlimited Users
USD 5,999
USD 5,099
tax inclusive*
*Please note that the prices mentioned below are starting prices for each bundle type. Kindly contact our team for further details.*
Flash Bundle
Small Business Bundle
Growth Bundle
Enterprise Bundle
*Please note that the prices mentioned below are starting prices for each bundle type. Kindly contact our team for further details.*
Flash Bundle
Number of Reports: 3
20%
tax inclusive*
Small Business Bundle
Number of Reports: 5
25%
tax inclusive*
Growth Bundle
Number of Reports: 8
30%
tax inclusive*
Enterprise Bundle
Number of Reports: 10
35%
tax inclusive*
How To Order
Our step-by-step guide will help you select, purchase, and access your reports swiftly, ensuring you get the information that drives your decisions, right when you need it.
Select License Type
Choose the right license for your needs and access rights.
Click on ‘Buy Now’
Add the report to your cart with one click and proceed to register.
Select Mode of Payment
Choose a payment option for a secure checkout. You will be redirected accordingly.
Gain insights to stay ahead and seize opportunities.
Get insights & trends for a competitive edge.
Track prices with detailed trend reports.
Analyse trade data for supply chain insights.
Leverage cost reports for smart savings
Enhance supply chain with partnerships.
Connect For More Information
Our expert team of analysts will offer full support and resolve any queries regarding the report, before and after the purchase.
Our expert team of analysts will offer full support and resolve any queries regarding the report, before and after the purchase.
We employ meticulous research methods, blending advanced analytics and expert insights to deliver accurate, actionable industry intelligence, staying ahead of competitors.
Our skilled analysts offer unparalleled competitive advantage with detailed insights on current and emerging markets, ensuring your strategic edge.
We offer an in-depth yet simplified presentation of industry insights and analysis to meet your specific requirements effectively.
Australia
63 Fiona Drive, Tamworth, NSW
+61-448-061-727
India
C130 Sector 2 Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
+91-723-689-1189
Philippines
40th Floor, PBCom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue Cor V.A Rufino St. Makati City,1226.
+63-287-899-028, +63-967-048-3306
United Kingdom
6 Gardner Place, Becketts Close, Feltham TW14 0BX, Greater London
+44-753-713-2163
United States
30 North Gould Street, Sheridan, WY 82801
+1-415-325-5166
Vietnam
193/26/4 St.no.6, Ward Binh Hung Hoa, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
+84-865-399-124
United States (Head Office)
30 North Gould Street, Sheridan, WY 82801
+1-415-325-5166
Australia
63 Fiona Drive, Tamworth, NSW
+61-448-061-727
India
C130 Sector 2 Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
+91-723-689-1189
Philippines
40th Floor, PBCom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue Cor V.A Rufino St. Makati City, 1226.
+63-287-899-028, +63-967-048-3306
United Kingdom
6 Gardner Place, Becketts Close, Feltham TW14 0BX, Greater London
+44-753-713-2163
Vietnam
193/26/4 St.no.6, Ward Binh Hung Hoa, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
+84-865-399-124