A wide range of heavy-duty machinery proves invaluable in several sectors across Australia. Whether you’re working in construction, mining, development, or even agriculture, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about.
This is why many project managers are making use of the excavator hire Bendigo companies rely on. Heavy lifting, demolition, and digging trenches are among the top functions that make this machine a firm favourite.
Excavators are a Must-Have on Your Job Site
If you’re getting ready to hire or use an excavator for the first time, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to ensure that you get the best model and accessories for the job. Here’s a list of the most significant factors to consider.
1. The Type of Terrain Matters
While it’s true that excavators can work on a range of different terrains, it’s essential to keep in mind that some ground conditions require specific features. Start by assessing the hardness and cohesion levels of the soil type, as this will affect the excavator’s digging ability. Rock and clay are typical examples of this.
Any slopes on the job site will require excavator models that offer more traction and stability. Flat terrains, on the other hand, are considerably easier to work on. An advantage here is that mini excavators can easily move around in narrow terrains.
Many rental companies offer a wide range of options in terms of size, capacity, and digging ability. For instance, large-scale trenching and landscaping may require a heavy-duty 3-ton machine. In this instance, you’ll also want a unit that has zero swing and zero tail. Mini excavators with a capacity of 1.6 tons, are better suited to smaller job functions.
2. Check the Specifications of Different Models
Mini excavators may all look very similar, but they have different specifications that make them less or better suited to a particular job. Power output, for instance, measures overall performance and can influence speed and efficiency.
Other specifications to focus on include digging depth and load capacity. If you’re going to be using the digging accessory, confirm that the machine can dig to the depth you need. Load capacity refers to the weight that the machine can handle. This will ultimately affect the tasks the machine can perform. It’s essential to have the estimated weight requirements on hand when you start searching for the best rental option.
3. Assess Estimated Fuel Efficiency
Back in the day, heavy-duty machinery had a reputation for being huge fuel guzzlers with massive emission output. Fortunately, modern excavators have made enormous strides in reducing both of these factors.
This means that you can easily hire machines with significantly lower environmental impact and lower fuel consumption. Always opt for models that boast improved fuel efficiency as this will reduce your day-to-day running costs.
4. Review Ease of Use and User Comfort
The model you opt for shouldn’t only be easy to use, but also comfortable to operate. Depending on the size of your project or job site, you may require an operator to spend a full day in the machine.
With this in mind, it’s essential to check aspects such as seat quality, visibility, overall noise levels, and general ease of use. All of these factors contribute to operator fatigue which in turn impacts productivity.
Fortunately, most modern excavators are designed to be operator-friendly with safety, stress reduction, and comfort in mind. Always opt for models that feature sensors, cameras as well as reinforced cages with easy-to-reach control. This is especially important when you’re working on difficult terrain.
5. Find the Best Rental Company
Finding the best excavator for the job is only one part of a successful rental process. It’s equally essential to consider the reputation of the rental company you’re going to potentially use.
Check their website, and various online platforms for customer reviews and ratings. This will give you an idea about their track record in the industry. You’ll also get a clearer indication of the type of service and quality of machinery to expect.
6. Understand the Rental Agreement
The next part of the rental process involves the actual rental agreement. Here it’s essential to review the terms and conditions, especially if this is the first time that you’re renting.
You will also need to consider the overall rental costs, contract duration, and deposit requirements. Enquire whether the agreement includes insurance coverage and what this covers. An important aspect to get clarity on is whether the agreement also covers maintenance and repairs.
Ideally, you want a contract where you’ll get a replacement machine if the one you’re using breaks down during the rental process. Keep in mind that waiting for a machine to be repaired will seriously hamper your workflow and ability to meet your deadlines.
Final Thoughts
The more times you rent machinery, the easier the process becomes, and you’ll be able to build a trustworthy relationship with your local rental company. Until then, use our tips and guidelines to help you get the first rental process off without a hitch!
