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Mini Excavator Hire - 3 Crucial Considerations

2 March 2016

Veronica Leon

Mini excavators are quickly becoming the leading excavator used by many contractors for varying purposes. As the name suggests, mini excavators are small and suitable for the jobs that are limited by space. Today's manufacturers feature mini/compact excavators with enhanced hydraulic functions that, coupled with their zero tail swing and ease of operation, make these excavators the ideal choice for many people.

When seeking mini excavator hire, there are several considerations one ought to make before settling on the equipment. Whether you are an individual undertaking small landscaping projects, a contractor demolishing part of a home for renovation, or even a homeowner building a swimming pool in their backyard, price and functionality considerations will be at the top of your list. Beyond these two, three other considerations must feature prominently on this list for a successful mini excavator hire endeavour.  

Operating weight

While mini excavators are lighter than other large-scale excavators, they do have specific operating weights prescribed for each model. Hiring a mini excavator for jobs that will exceed its maximum operating weight is hazardous and could lead to the destruction of the excavator. You should also bear in mind the kind of terrain you are going to be operating in. Some terrains are unstable and can be destroyed by excavators of certain weights. The terrain will also determine whether you should opt for a tracked or wheeled mini excavator. Wheeled mini excavators would be better suited for a smoother or flat terrain such as roads. Tracked mini excavators, on the other hand, would come in handy if you intend to work on an uneven, rough terrain. Whichever the case, keep in mind your excavator's weight and ensure it does not damage your property or get destroyed due courtesy of exceeding weights.

Dig depth

Different mini excavator models offer different approved dig depths. You should enquire from your mini excavator hire partner the associated dig depths that accompany each model before hiring. Exceeding the excavator's dig depth also introduces difficulties and threats since the machine will be operating beyond the limits. So bear in mind what your project depth is; are you digging a swimming pool or a trench? Are you accessing utilities or digging a foundation?

Dump height

Finally, everybody seeking mini excavator hire should bear in mind the maximum height the boomstick and attachments can reach. If you are going to be dumping excavated earth into some high dumper bins or truck-mounted areas, you will want a mini excavator that adequately reaches these regions. Consult with the people providing the excavator on maximum heights and available options for higher dumps if they may be required.  

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