You book a machine together with its operator for set dates. The operator brings the machine to site, carries out the pre-use checks and works to your instructions or your site lead's.
The machine stays under the operator's control for the whole booking and leaves with them at the end. Your part is the site: the plan for the work, the services information and keeping other people clear.
What the work covers
A machine suited to the work, supplied with an operator for the booked dates.
The machine brought to site at the start of the hire and taken away at the end.
The operator checks the machine before work starts each day.
The operator digs, loads and moves material to the instructions of the hirer or site lead.
Questions people ask
How much does digger hire with an operator cost?
It depends on the machine the job needs, the number of days, the distance to site and any site requirements such as inductions or traffic management.
Can my own staff use the machine during the hire?
No. The machine is run only by the operator supplied with it.
Who is liable if the machine hits a buried pipe or cable?
On operated hire the hirer usually directs the work, including where to dig, so the hire terms and your insurance decide where the cost falls. Accurate service plans and markings protect you as well as the operator.
Do I need a signaller on site?
Reversing in tight spaces, working near people or lifting loads may call for a trained signaller or slinger. Tell us whether the site will have one.
What if the weather stops work?
Let us know as early as possible if the ground is too wet or the forecast rules out a start. Read the hire terms for how weather days are treated.