Buying guide
28 inch vs 36 inch traffic cones
Both sizes meet the MUTCD minimum for higher-speed roads. The difference is visibility, wind resistance and what your contract asks for.
| 28 inch | 36 inch | |
|---|---|---|
| MUTCD use | Minimum for higher-speed roads and night | Preferred on freeways, many DOT specs |
| Reflective at night | 6 in + 4 in collars | 6 in + 4 in collars |
| Typical base | 7 to 10 lb | 10 to 15 lb |
| Cost | Lower per cone | Higher per cone |
| Stacking and storage | More per truck | Fewer per truck |
Buy 28 inch for
Most local roads, utility work and day-to-day crew use. It is the fleet standard because it is cheaper, lighter and fits more per truck.
Buy 36 inch for
Highways, long tapers and anywhere drivers approach fast. The extra height buys earlier warning, and heavier bases resist truck wake.
Bottom line
Stock 28 inch reflective cones as your base fleet and add 36 inch cones for highway or DOT jobs that require them.
Questions
Can I use 18 inch cones on a road?
Only on low-speed roads in daylight. Higher speeds and night work need 28 inches or taller with reflective collars.
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