As underground utility corridors grow more congested, bore planning has become a critical component of successful horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. With more utilities being relocated from overhead to underground and right-of-ways becoming increasingly crowded, the risk of accidental utility strikes is on the rise. Effective bore planning is key to reducing these risks and maintaining a smooth, safe installation process.
Why Bore Planning Matters
Bore planning involves carefully designing the drilling path before any work begins. This includes identifying the location of existing utilities, calculating proper clearances, and factoring in the capabilities of the drill and the product being installed. A well-thought-out plan minimizes the risk of damage, delays, and costly errors.
More municipalities are now requiring detailed bore plans upfront, along with as-built documentation post-installation. These requirements aren’t just regulatory boxes to check—they’re best practices that ensure safer and more predictable outcomes on every job.
What to Consider When Planning a Bore
One of the most important steps in bore planning is determining the drill’s entry and exit points, along with the entry angle and setback distance needed to reach target depths. The plan must also consider:
- The diameter and bend radius of the product and drill rods
- Local clearance requirements from existing utilities
- The entire pullback process, including space for reaming and navigating around existing infrastructure
Insufficient planning in any of these areas can result in damaged products, stuck pipe, or failed installations—each of which can delay the project and increase costs.
Traditional vs. Digital Bore Planning
Historically, bore paths were mapped manually using site surveys and utility maps. While this approach can work for straightforward projects, it becomes less reliable as complexity increases.
That’s where digital bore planning tools come in. Bore planning platforms allow contractors to digitally map bore paths using GPS data, rig specifications, and utility information. These tools provide accurate, shareable plans that can be updated in real-time as the project progresses.
With cloud-based connectivity, office teams and field crews stay aligned throughout the job. Plans can be quickly revised, and digital tools automatically verify factors like clearance and bend radius.
Compared to manual methods, digital planning is significantly faster and more accurate. A trained technician using GPS-enabled tools can create a bore plan in the same time it takes to set up the drill rig. Manual sketching, by contrast, is more time-consuming and prone to oversight—especially when relying solely on visual inspections or outdated utility maps.
The Importance of As-Built Documentation
One of the greatest advantages of digital bore planning is its ability to capture as-built data during the drilling process. This creates a precise record of where the product was installed, which is invaluable for future work in the area. Having accurate documentation also protects contractors and helps meet increasingly common project requirements.
Don’t Overlook Existing Utilities
Locating and safely exposing existing utilities along the proposed bore path is a vital step in the planning process. Regardless of whether you’re using traditional or digital methods, using a vacuum excavator is the safest and least disruptive way to uncover utilities.
Another recommended best practice: install a tracer wire alongside the product during installation. This allows future crews to quickly locate the line without extensive excavation, reducing both time and risk on future projects.
Overcoming Resistance to New Technology
Despite the clear benefits, some contractors remain hesitant to adopt digital bore planning tools. Common concerns include the learning curve, resistance to changing long-standing practices, and the belief that manual methods are “good enough.”
But the industry is evolving fast. As more project owners and municipalities require digital bore plans and accurate as-builts, contractors who don’t adapt risk falling behind. The latest digital tools are more user-friendly than ever and can be integrated into existing workflows with minimal disruption. With a bit of training, any crew can become proficient.
The Future is Digital
As underground environments grow more complex and regulations tighten, manual planning methods are struggling to keep up. By embracing digital bore planning and following proven best practices, HDD contractors can boost efficiency, reduce risk, and deliver the quality results their clients expect.
How GUS Can Help
At Georgia Underground Superstore, we're here to support your success every step of the way. Our team of HDD experts is ready to answer your questions, offer guidance on bore planning, and help you find the right tools and equipment for the job. Whether you're navigating a complex project or simply need product recommendations, we’re committed to delivering the solutions, service, and support you need to get the job done right.
Find all HDD Tools and Equipment here: HDD/Horizontal Directional Drilling Products for Utilities