The cost of running construction projects can run into thousands, if not millions, of dollars. Keeping a close eye on the budget is crucial if you want your project to reach its deadline without running out of money. There are many ways of keeping the costs down and one of them is hiring the CORRECT heavy duty equipment.
Australian construction companies are seeing the benefits of leasing heavy machinery. Many projects only require using certain equipment for a short period. This could mean taking advantage of crane hire Melbourne transport companies are offering to complete construction work. What are all the types of heavy duty equipment you should consider hiring instead of buying?
6 Heavy Duty Equipment You Can Hire for Your Next Construction Project
1. Cranes
If your project requires lifting and haulage, you’ll need a crane of some sort. There are several different cranes, each designed to suit specific tasks such as:
- Mobile cranes: Most suitable for heavy lifting, this type of heavy duty equipment is popular for its mobility feature. They can be driven to your site when you need one for heavy lifts and for extended reach.
- Pick and carry cranes: If you’re looking for a crane to pick up loads and carry them to another site, this is what you’re looking for.
- Mini cranes: This type of crane is ideal for small spaces where you need a load to be lifted without damaging the surrounds. They work well for confined spots such as pavements in town or smaller building sites.
It makes financial sense to hire a crane from a reputable hiring company that abides by the OSH regulations stipulated by the local government. Make sure there’s no need to pay fines later on.
2. Forklifts
Forklifts are also used for lifting and moving heavy loads around a site or in warehouses. If you’re only doing the occasional lifting job, hiring a forklift is the best way to go. Some hire companies go as far as offering a qualified operator in the lease. This means you don’t have to employ an operator, saving you money on the payroll.
Forklifts can be hired for short or long-term use. They come in different load capacities and can be equipped with various accessories for different uses.
3. Articulated Dump Trucks
Articulated dump trucks are popular for their versatility on construction sites where there are steep slopes, unpaved roads and sandy or slippery surfaces. This type of heavy duty equipment is commonly seen on the following sites:
- Mining
- Scrapyards
- Recycling depots
- Building sites
While these vehicles play a useful role in construction sites, they aren’t always used on a daily basis. To save on unnecessary costs, consider hiring an articulated dump truck.
Tip: Make sure it has been conditionally registered for use on public roads and other road-related locations.
4. Backhoe Loaders
Backhoe loaders play a useful role in construction projects that require excavation, digging and hauling. However, it’s another piece of heavy duty machinery that can sit for days, if not months, doing nothing while the project is focused on different jobs. So hiring does make more sense.
When hiring a backhoe loader, make sure it can handle the different jobs efficiently. Consider hiring an operator and find out if maintenance of the equipment is included in the lease. This saves you worrying about keeping the machinery in working order by paying for maintenance yourself.
5. Compactors
Compactors are heavy duty equipment used to crush, compact and level a surface. They’re often used in industrial jobs and where soil, sand and gravel need to be flattened on building sites.
There are various types available for hire, so make sure you get the right one for the job:
- Single plate: These are good for small-scale construction work such as laying asphalt, pavements and driveways.
- Heavy-duty plate: Good for large-scale building sites and construction work.
- Reversible plate: Ideal for projects requiring more versatility as they can move in several directions.
When hiring compactors, speak to the hire company to get the best advice on the right one for your project needs.
6. Excavators
Excavators are commonly found on building or construction sites especially where excavations, demolitions and hauling applications are required. It’s not unusual to find this piece of equipment on farms and forestry lands as well. Excavators come in different sizes so when hiring one for your project, get the right one to do the job you want done.
Excavators come in the following sizes:
- Mini: For smaller, tighter areas with hard-to-reach spots.
- Medium: Most suitable for medium-to-large scale construction and building work.
- Large: Ideal where maximum power is required for large-scale construction projects.
Ensure that the hiring company abides by the code of practice for excavation work so you know their equipment meets the safety standards stipulated for the industry.
Final Thoughts
Heavy duty equipment is expensive to buy and to maintain in perfect working order. Save yourself the hassles of owning heavy machinery and consider hiring instead for your next construction project. By dealing with a professional heavy duty equipment hire company, you can rest assured you’ll save money while keeping the project running efficiently.
Angela Spearman is a journalist at EzineMark who enjoys writing about the latest trending technology and business news.
