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2800+ 1.5 Tonne Excavator for Hire on iseekplant

With a fleet of over 2,800 machines, iseekplant proudly boasts one of the most complete networks of 1.5 tonne excavator suppliers in Australia. These compact yet powerful machines are versatile and cater to many construction and excavation tasks. If you need something bigger, our platform can also connect you with suppliers of 10 tonne excavators up to 60 tonne excavators.

Perfect for confined areas or projects with space limitations, 1.5 tonne excavators are an essential tool for contractors and construction professionals alike. In this quick guide, let’s look at 1.5 tonne excavator hire rates, specs and pros and cons of popular excavator brands, alternatives and other things to consider before hiring.

1.5 Tonne Excavator Hire Rates Guide

Hiring a 1.5 tonne excavator can be cost-effective, especially considering the flexibility and range they offer. Here's a glance at the going rates:

Hire TypeDaily RateWeekly Rate
Wet Hire$250 - $300$1,200 - $1,400
Dry Hire$200 - $240$950 - $1,100

Note: All prices listed on this page are estimates, exclude GST and are in AUD. Price estimates can vary based on location, model and additional requirements.

Additional Costs to Consider When Hiring a 1.5 Tonne Excavator

When hiring a 1.5 tonne excavator, the initial hire rate is just the tip of the iceberg. Several potential costs can emerge, some foreseen and others not so much. Here's a breakdown to ensure you're not caught off guard:

Additional CostPotential CostQuick Description
Fuel$50 - $150 per dayPrice depends on usage and local fuel rates
Transportation$100 - $300 (round trip)Cost varies based on distance from the hire depot
Attachments$30 - $100 per daySpecial attachments like augers or breakers; pricing varies based on attachment
Operator Fees (for wet hire)$25 - $50 per hourFor the operator's time and expertise
Maintenance$0 - $500 (long-term hire)Occasional maintenance or repairs, more common in long-term hires
Insurance$20 - $50 per dayCoverage against damages or accidents; cost can vary based on coverage depth
Site Preparation$100 - $400Might include clearing the area or ensuring proper accessibility
Training/Certification$0 - $250Some providers may offer/require a brief training or certification course

Keep in mind that these costs are estimates and could vary based on the provider, location and your project. Ask for detailed quotes from our suppliers using our Get a Quote tool to get a precise estimate today!

Specs, Pros and Cons of Common 1.5 Tonne Excavator Brands

Choosing from a sea of excavator brands can be quite challenging. However, when it comes to the 1.5 tonne category, certain brands consistently stand out due to their performance, reliability and value for money.

The list and table below highlight these notable brands, helping you make an informed choice tailored to your requirements:

  • Kubota: Renowned for its reliability and advanced hydraulic systems, Kubota has become a staple in the light excavator segment.
  • Hitachi: With a track record of innovative design and solid durability, Hitachi's 1.5 tonne excavators are preferred by many contractors.
  • CAT (Caterpillar): CAT is synonymous with heavy machinery, and its 1.5 tonne excavators are no exception, boasting powerful performance and versatile features.
  • Bobcat: Known for its compact design, Bobcat offers excavators that are easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces, making them a favourite among urban developers.
  • Yanmar: Yanmar combines fuel efficiency with rugged build quality, delivering excavators that are both economical and long-lasting.
BrandModelSpecsProsCons
KubotaU17-31.5 tonne, 13.9 kWExcellent reliability, Advanced hydraulic systems, Great value for moneySlightly higher initial cost
HitachiZX17U-51.5 tonne, 14.6 kWInnovative design, Durable build, User-friendly interfaceParts can be pricey
CAT (Caterpillar)301.7D CR1.5 tonne, 17.9 kWPowerful performance, Good brand reputation, Extensive dealer networkPremium pricing
BobcatE171.5 tonne, 10.2 kWCompact design, Suitable for tight spaces, Reliable brandLimited advanced features
YanmarViO171.5 tonne, 13.4 kWFuel efficient, Rugged design, Low maintenanceLess recognised compared to bigger brands

Each brand and model has unique strengths and weaknesses that cater to different project needs and preferences. Assess your project requirements against the specifications and advantages of these machines to ensure the best fit.

Alternative Equipment to 1.5 Tonne Excavators

While the 1.5 Tonne Excavator is a versatile and widely-used choice for many projects, there are several alternative options available depending on the specific requirements of your task. Here, we break down some popular equipment alternatives to the 1.5 Tonne Excavator and their primary uses:

  • Skid Steer Loaders: Skid steer loaders are machines notable for their agility, perfect for tight spaces and swift ground-level tasks.
  • Mini Loaders: Ideal for projects requiring compactness without sacrificing power, mini loaders such as bobcats can navigate tight spaces while delivering on performance.
  • Backhoe Loaders: With the dual functionality of a loader and an excavator, backhoe loaders offer versatility for digging and loading tasks.
  • Compact Track Loaders: Especially useful in muddy or unstable terrains, these loaders offer stability and versatility, with multiple attachment options for varied tasks.
  • Trenchers: Specifically designed for digging precise trenches, trenchers are the go-to equipment for laying pipes or cables efficiently.

The table below shows a quick comparison of the alternatives with 1.5 tonne excavators:

AlternativeApplicationsProsConsVs. 1.5 Tonne Excavator
Skid Steer LoadersGround levelling, material handling, debris removalHighly manoeuvrable, versatile with attachmentsLimited depth reach compared to excavatorsMore suited for surface-level tasks, less digging capacity
Mini LoadersDigging, transporting materials, drillingCompact size, ideal for tight spacesLimited capacity compared to larger equipmentOffers similar compactness but with different functionality
Backhoe LoadersDigging, trenching, back-filling, material liftingDual functionality (loader & excavator)Larger footprint than mini excavatorsOffers deeper digging depth but takes up more space
Compact Track LoadersGrading, landscaping, forestry tasksBetter traction in muddy terrains, versatile with attachmentsLess efficient in digging tasksMore about surface tasks, less about excavation
TrenchersDigging narrow trenches for pipes or cablesPrecise trenching, various sizes availableSpecific to trenching, limited other usesExcels in precise trenching, while the excavator is more versatile

A 1.5 Tonne Excavator is versatile in its digging capabilities and adaptability. However, in some cases, the alternatives listed might offer a more tailored solution. Always ensure to define your project's requirements so you choose the right equipment for the job.

Other Things to Consider When Hiring a 1.5 Tonne Excavator

Beyond the specs and rates, there are other factors to mull over your excavator hire. Taking these into account ensures you select the most effective machine for the job, maximising productivity while minimising unexpected complications:

  • Project Timeframe: For short-term engagements, wet hires could be your best bet. For prolonged projects, dry hires might offer more value.
  • Operator Proficiency: Always ensure that the operator (whether onsite or the supplier's) is well-acquainted with the specific excavator model for optimised performance.
  • Attachments: Check on the tasks you'll be handling and determine if you'll need specialised attachments.
  • Site Accessibility: Given their compact build, 1.5 tonne excavators are a dream for sites with limited access, but always make sure to verify site measurements.

Start Your Dig Today with iseekplant!

Ready to jumpstart your project with the ideal 1.5 tonne excavator? At iseekplant, we’re geared up to facilitate just that. Whether you're charting out a minor dig or a more extensive excavation, we've got you covered with excavators, backhoes, trenchers and other necessary equipment to get the job done.

Any queries or need guidance? Shoot us an email at [email protected] or ring in at 1300 691 912. To get rolling, just tap on 'Get a Quote'!

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