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10/08/2021

Things to consider before hiring plant machinery

Hiring plant machinery is a big decision and it is important to make sure you have considered every possible element of your project before deciding what to go for. Hiring the wrong equipment can result in time and money wasted for both the client and the supplier, so doing the research and getting it right the first time is beneficial to both parties. Here at Rockthorn we have more than 20 years of experience within the plant hire industry, so we have a good understanding of how the requirements vary in different sectors, and things you should consider when hiring plant machinery. 

Project goals:

Looking at your project’s goals is the first step to take before even considering what equipment you need. Consider different aspects of the build such as:

  • The size of the build
  • What you are building
  • The time scale you are working with
  • The different elements and each step involved
  • The number of workers you have available
  • Your projects budget

Once you have the answers to these questions, you should have more of an idea about what sort of equipment you will need. For example you may require a telescopic handler for a project that requires height access, these are also handy as they have a range of attachments meaning they are a versatile machine to hire. Or if you are in need of power access machinery to hire, our cherry pickers and boom lifts are ideal. Or perhaps you need a digger for removing earth from the site. All plant machinery has very different uses, so working out what you need to use it for is something you need to do before you move on.

However, if you are still unsure on what you need to use, you can give us a call on 0330 118 5030 or email us at hire@rockthorn.co.uk and we can help you figure out what is essential equipment for your build.

Site access:

The next thing to consider is if the equipment you require can be transported easily and safely to your site. All plant equipment is assessed before transportation to make sure it is in the best condition it can be. If this equipment is damaged while in use on your site then you may be liable to pay for the damages, so it is in your best interest to make sure the site is as accessible and easily maneuverable as possible. 

What support you need:

It is a good idea to read up on what equipment you have decided to hire. To learn how to use it and the best way to incorporate it into your site. If you are operating the equipment and you haven’t used one before, then you might need to acquire some additional support. If this is the case, here at Rockthorn you have the option to hire an operator along with the equipment. This is a way to ensure that your project is supplied with the equipment it needs as well as making sure that the machinery is operated safely. The correct and confident operation of a machine is essential to not just the build, but to the safety of all workers on site. So you can opt for operated plant hire, or self drive, the choice is yours!

Machinery availability:

Unfortunately not all plant hire machinery will be available to hire when you need it, especially if it is a machine that is popular and in high demand. The best way to combat this is to undertake your initial checks as far in advance as possible and pre book your equipment. You may otherwise have to postpone your project, which could result in a higher overall cost. Here at Rockthorn we pride ourselves on always sourcing the equipment you need, no matter how scarce the equipment may be we love a challenge.

Hiring your plant machinery can come with a list of benefits, such as the cutting of overall cost, guaranteed working condition and the opportunity to hire as and when you need it. If you are in need of plant machinery for hire but are not sure what you need, contact us today on 0300 118 5030 for one of our friendly and experienced team members advice on what you will need or get a quote for you hire today