Describe your job and our suppliers will send you quotes
Venturing into waterlogged or marshy project sites? We've got you sorted. With 11 leading suppliers offering amphibious excavator hire on iseekplant, as well as track mats, low loaders and drotts, finding the right equipment tailored to your needs is hassle-free.
Amphibious excavators come with specialised undercarriages that are designed to tackle terrains that regular excavators can't handle. In this quick guide, we help you find the best fit for your project, including hire rates, how amphibious excavators work, pros and cons of certain manufacturers and alternatives on our platform.
Amphibious excavators can sometimes seem costly due to their specialised nature. These machines can work in challenging terrains where traditional excavators fail, hence the premium on their hire rates.
Based on recent market trends, the average hire rates for amphibious excavators have experienced a slight uptick, given the increased demand for coastal and wetland restoration projects. Below is a guide that highlights the general hire rates. Keep in mind that various factors like location, duration of hire and specific project needs can influence these rates.
Size Variant | Average Wet Hire Rates | Average Dry Hire Rates |
---|---|---|
Small (Below 15 Tonnes) | $250 - $350 per hour | $180 - $240 per hour |
Medium (15-30 Tonnes) | $350 - $450 per hour | $240 - $330 per hour |
Large (Above 30 Tonnes) | $450 - $580 per hour | $330 - $420 per hour |
Note: All prices listed on this page are estimates, exclude GST and are in AUD.
When budgeting for an amphibious excavator hire, there's a whole range of additional expenses that could sneak up on you if you're not prepared. From transport charges to daily maintenance, understanding these can make your budgeting process smoother:
Cost Type | Description | Estimated Cost |
---|---|---|
Transport Charges | Cost to move the excavator to and from the job site | $100 - $500 depending on distance |
Operator Fees | If you don't have a certified operator, hiring one is essential | $30 - $60 per hour |
Maintenance & Repairs | Daily upkeep or unexpected repairs | $50 - $200 per day |
Fuel Charges | Amphibious excavators, especially larger ones, can be fuel-intensive | $100 - $300 per day |
Site Preparation | Cost to prepare the site, especially for wet or marshy lands | $200 - $800 |
Insurance | Protection against potential damages or accidents | Varies based on project risk and duration |
Environmental Fees | Possible charges for working in environmentally sensitive areas | Varies based on location and regulations |
The table gives an overview of potential expenses. However, always discuss these with your hire company to avoid unforeseen costs. Still looking for a supplier? Our Get a Quote tool can help connect you with our suppliers to get an accurate estimate based on your project today!
Often called ‘swamp buggies’, amphibious excavators stand out significantly from their land-bound counterparts. Not only are they designed for specific environments, but their overall build and operational features are uniquely tailored to suit certain challenging terrains. So, what exactly sets them apart? Let's examine the distinctive features of amphibious excavators:
Comparison Table: Amphibious Excavators vs. Standard Excavators
Excavator Type | Technical Specs | Practical Applications | Pros | Cons | Maintenance Practices |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Amphibious Excavators | Pontoon-like undercarriage; Hydraulic extendable undercarriage; Specially designed sprockets for water environments | Wetlands and marshes; Swamp areas; Projects near or in water bodies | Ability to work in waterlogged areas; Versatile with both land and water functionality; Can tackle terrains regular excavators can't | Can be more expensive to hire and maintain; Heavier and can require special transport arrangements; Not as efficient on dry terrains | Regular checks for pontoon integrity; Frequent cleaning to prevent water damage; Checking of hydraulic systems for any water ingress |
Standard Excavators | Tracked or wheeled undercarriage; More compact build; Designed primarily for dry land operations | Urban construction; Road building; Mining operations | High efficiency in dry terrains; Broad range of attachments; Well-suited for more common construction tasks | Limited to dry land operations; Cannot tackle waterlogged or marshy terrains | Routine track or tire checks; Regular cleaning to prevent dust accumulation; General attachment and engine maintenance |
When choosing amphibious excavators, thinking about the leading manufacturers from the pack plays a crucial role in your project's success. Several industry titans have consistently proven their expertise and reliability. Here's a closer look at each of them:
The table below shows each manufacturer's notable models, highlighting their quick specs and pros and cons:
Manufacturer | Notable Model | Quick Specs | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hitachi | ZX210LC-6 | Weight: 20.5T; Power: 164hp | Engineered for longevity, fuel-efficient operations | Replacement parts can be on the higher side |
Komatsu | PC210LCi-11 | Weight: 23.5T; Power: 165hp | Superior hydraulics, built for resilience | Transportation requires meticulous planning |
Caterpillar | 320 GC | Weight: 21T; Power: 147hp | Wide adaptability, hassle-free parts procurement | Regular maintenance essential after heavy-duty use |
Hyundai | HX220L | Weight: 22.5T; Power: 173hp | Operator-focussed design, intuitive controls | Limited amphibious variants in their lineup |
Choosing the right machine for the job is essential. Sometimes, while amphibious excavators excel in certain terrains, you might find that another piece of machinery fits your specific needs better. Let's examine two of the most viable alternatives to amphibious excavators on our platform for your consideration:
Alternative | Notable Brand and Model | Pros | Cons | Vs. Amphibious Excavators |
---|---|---|---|---|
Swamp Dozer | CAT D4 Swamp Dozer | Designed for wet terrains, powerful | Not as versatile in aquatic environments | More terrain-focused than aquatic-capable |
Mini Excavator | Komatsu PC30MR-5 | Agile, precise, ideal for tight spaces | Not suitable for very wet or mucky terrains | Lacks the aquatic adaptability but excels in confined areas |
Working on wetlands or unstable grounds? Our selection of amphibious excavators will ensure your project keeps moving forward without a hitch. In addition, included in our network are suppliers of backhoes, dump trucks, trenchers and other equipment you need to get the job done.
Browse through our extensive list of suppliers, weigh the specs and pick the machinery that's right for you. Don't let challenging terrains bog you down – elevate your project with iseekplant's solutions.
For any inquiries, feel free to email us at projects@iseekplant.com.au or dial 1300 691 912. If you're all set to plunge into action, hit 'Get a Quote' now!
Here are some frequently asked questions and tips on finding the right amphibious excavator supplier for your job.
Congratulations on your decision to join the best industry on earth, con...
What are the best excavator brands available in Australia? When it come...
Excavators are versatile, heavy machines deployed to move large obje...
Excavators are a staple on construction sites but with there being so ma...
Once you have chosen the right excavator for your job, you often need ex...
Got an excavating project? Wondering what the difference is between an ...
It's difficult to beat the effectiveness of an excavator with their myri...
Excavators are one of the most commonly used machines on Australian work...