Small Excavator Rental: DIY Checklist

Welcome to your Complete Guide to Choosing, Hiring, and Using the Right Small Excavator Rental for Your Project.

When tackling a DIY home improvement project, the right machinery makes all the difference. Whether that’s digging trenches, landscaping, clearing or constructing a new driveway, a small excavator rental is an ideal companion to help you get the job done. But for many, renting an excavator for the first time can feel daunting.

To help you start, we’ve created this simple checklist designed for DIYers.

1. Choosing a Reliable Rental Provider

Selecting a trustworthy rental provider is the first and most crucial step. This is because a reliable equipment specialist ensures a smooth process and peace of mind.

Start by:

Check Online Reviews: Look for companies with consistently positive feedback from customers. Platforms like Google Reviews or Trustpilot are great places to start.
Assess Equipment Range: Ensure the supplier offers a range of small excavators and attachments that provide you with an ample amount of flexibility.
Discover Support Services: Does the provider offer delivery, breakdowns, or equipment tutorials? These small extras make a huge difference.
Transparency: A trusted provider will clearly outline hire rates, policies, and additional costs upfront.

It is crucial that when vetting a supplier, you consider each of these factors to simplify your entire experience. If you’d like to take a deeper dive, check out our article: “How To Choose The Right Equipment Hire Company Near Me”

2. Picking the Right Excavator for Your Project

Not all small excavators are manufactured the same. Therefore, choosing the right one depends on the size and scope of your project.

Understand Machine Sizes: Small excavators normally range from 1 to 3 tonnes. For projects that are governed by limited space, a micro digger (1 tonne) is ideal. For heavier digging and lifting, a mini digger ranging from 1.5 tonnes to 3 tonnes will be better suited.
Attachment Requirements: Will you need extra attachments or specialised buckets to complete your tasks? Discuss these with your rental provider to ensure compatibility and availability.
Assess Site Access: Measure access points such as gates, pathways or driveways to ensure the excavator can reach your work area.

By considering these factors you should have no issues when it comes to operating the equipment out on site. For more information on selecting the right type of small excavator rental for your project, see this article: A Guide To Hiring The Right Size Digger.

3. Arranging Your Small Excavator Rental

Once you know what you need, it’s time to book your rental. Here’s how to get started.

Have The Right Documentation: Most providers require 2 forms of ID, including a proof of address.
Deposits: Suppliers will require a security deposit for your small excavator rental. This will depend on equipment value and length of hire.
Rental Period: Have an idea of how long you need the machinery for. DIY projects often only require machinery on a short-term basis, but most providers will allow you to extend the rental period if necessary.
Insurance: Understand if you require rental insurance for your machinery. Typically, this is down to the customer to arrange their temporary insurance. See our article on plant insurance for more details.

Cash accounts are used by DIYers when renting small excavating equipment on short-term hire. Find out more about these accounts here.

4. Delivery or Pickup: Which Works Best for You?

Most rental companies will provide a service to have equipment delivered to its working location or to collect it yourself.

Delivery: If you don’t have a suitable towing vehicle, having the excavator delivered is a convenient option. Ensure you provide clear directions and notify the company of any access restrictions. Delivery costs are an additional fee, so ensure you get a quote beforehand.
Self-Pickup: If you plan to tow the excavator yourself, ensure your vehicle meets the towing capacity and is fitted with a suitable hitch. Some suppliers offer trailer rental where needed. However, it is worth noting that this will attract additional costs.

Delivery Checklist:

Inform your supplier of the location and time you require the equipment.
Ensure the drop-off area is clear and accessible.
Verify what buckets or attachments are included.

5. Learning to Operate the Machine

Operating a small excavator for the first time can feel quite complex. However, with the right preparation, you’ll gain confidence quickly. When receiving your small excavator rental from your supplier you should:

Ask for a Demonstration: Most rental suppliers will provide a run-through of the machinery.
Watch Tutorial Videos: Suppliers like WHC Hire offer free equipment tutorials that you can watch before your machine arrives. This means you can get a head start before stepping into the operator’s seat.
Read the Manual: Review the operator’s manual to understand controls, safety features, and daily maintenance checks.
Practise: Take some time to familiarise yourself with basic movements, such as track and digging arm controls.
Follow Safety Precautions: Always wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), as stated in the operator’s manual of your rental machine.

6. Completing Your Project and Returning the Equipment

Once your project is finished, there are a few final steps to ensure a smooth return of the rented excavator.

Clean the Machine: Remove all mud and debris from the machine. Equipment returned excessively dirty may attract a cleaning charge.
Inspect Damage: Inspect the excavator for any damage before returning it. If any problems occur, you should report them immediately.
Refuel: Most providers require you to return the machine with a full fuel tank. Otherwise, this is charged as extra. See the terms of your hire agreement.
Return All Components: Ensure all buckets, attachments and keys are returned to avoid any unnecessary charges.

Each supplier will have a different off-hire policy which will be stated in your terms of hire agreement. If you’d like to explore this process in more detail, check out: “When Is Your Equipment Collected By WHC Hire.”

DIY Checklist Summary

Here’s a recap of your small excavator rental checklist:

Choose a Trusted Provider: Look for a reputable company, offering a wide range of machinery, complemented with positive online reviews.
Pick the Right Machine: Match the excavator size to your project needs and access availability.
Arrange Your Rental: Have the right documents to hand, book in plenty of time and understand your insurance.
Delivery or Pickup?: Decide how you’d like to get the machinery to your location.
Learn to Operate the Machine: Take advantage of resources and demonstrations supplied by your provider.
Return the Equipment: Clean, inspect, and refuel the excavator before returning it.

Ready To Start Your Project With Our Small Excavator Rental Services?

Ready to start your project? At WHC Hire Services, we offer a wide range of small excavator rental options, expert advice, and full support to help you succeed.

Explore the variety of small excavators we have available to rent on our website. Or, get in touch with your local depot for more information.

Simplify your small excavator rental with the right equipment from WHC Hire Services!