Describe your job and our suppliers will send you quotes
Ditch Witches, commonly known as trenchers or vibratory ploughs, are vital pieces of equipment in the construction industry, especially for electrical contractors. These trenching machines are primarily used for digging trenches for utilities, landscaping, or laying pipes. These machines offer a level of precision and efficiency unmatched by conventional excavation methods.
This guide highlights Ditch Witches, including standard hire rates, sizes and specs, practical applications and any other costs associated with them.
Hiring a Ditch Witch is a cost-effective option for short-term projects, offering flexibility without the significant upfront investment of purchasing. Rates depend on the model, size, and hire duration, with suppliers providing the most accurate and competitive pricing:
Size/Type | Wet Hire Rate (Per Hour) | Dry Hire Rate (Per Hour) |
---|---|---|
Mini Trencher | $90 - $110 | $70 - $90 |
Ride-on Trencher | $130 - $160 | $100 - $130 |
Heavy-Duty Trencher | $180 - $220 | $150 - $180 |
Note: Rates vary depending on the machine's age, brand and location within Australia. All prices listed on this page are estimates, exclude GST and are in AUD.
The outright cost of the hired equipment is only a part of the total bill. This table should give you some idea of the additional costs of hiring a Ditch Witch:
Cost Type | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Operator Costs | $30 - $50 per hour |
Transport/Delivery | $100 - $200 (one way) |
Maintenance/Repairs | Varies based on damage |
Fuel | Based on current rates |
Additional Attachments | Varies based on requirements |
Use our Get a Quote tool to connect with our suppliers now!
Understanding the depth, width, and horsepower of a Ditch Witch is crucial to matching it with your project needs. Features like side shift trenching, a shift attachment, and wheel steer capabilities can significantly enhance efficiency, ensuring your team stays productive and completes tasks on time and within budget. This table highlights the common sizes and specs of common Ditch Witches:
Model/Size | Trench Depth | Trench Width | Horsepower |
---|---|---|---|
Mini Trencher | Up to 450mm | 100 - 150mm | 15 - 20HP |
Ride-on Trencher | 450mm - 1.2m | 150 - 300mm | 40 - 60HP |
Heavy-Duty Trencher | 1m - 1.5m | 200 - 400mm | 60 - 100HP |
While 'Ditch Witch' is a brand itself, it has become synonymous with trench digger much like ‘Dyson’ with vacuum cleaners. However, the world of trenching equipment is diverse, boasting of various brands that have carved their niche. Let's take a look at how these brands compare in the table below:
Brand | Notable Model | Quick Specs | Trench Capabilities (Width and Depth in mm) | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ditch Witch | RT45 | Engine Power: 49 HP; Operating Weight: 1,470 kg; Chain Width: 150 - 305 mm | Width: Up to 305; Depth: Up to 1,575 | High precision, Diverse model range | Higher price point |
Vermeer | RTX450 | Engine Power: 49 HP; Operating Weight: 2,044 kg (rubber tyres); 2814 kg (tracked); Chain Width: 150 - 305 mm | Width: Up to 203; Depth: Up to 1,524 | Durable, Suitable for rugged terrains | Somewhat bulkier in design |
Toro | TRX-26 | Engine Power: 26 HP; Operating Weight: 566 kg; Chain Width: 100 - 152 mm | Width: Up to 152; Depth: Up to 1,219 | Compact size | Less suitable for extensive projects |
Bobcat | LT313 | Engine Power: Varies; Operating Weight: 433 kg; Chain Width: 150 - 305 | Width: Up to 305; Depth: Up to 1,200 | Compact design, Reliable performance | Limited for larger terrains, Only compatible with Bobcat machines |
The versatility of Ditch Witches is truly commendable. Whether it's the construction of a new housing estate requiring utility setups, agricultural fields in need of advanced irrigation systems or expansive commercial plots demanding complex drainage systems, these machines are at the forefront.
Their adaptability underscores their value, making them a prized asset in numerous sectors. Here are some of the many sectors where Ditch Witches are indispensable:
iseekplant is dedicated to streamlining the process of hiring the best equipment for your project. With a comprehensive network of suppliers, we ensure you get the right tool for your needs. Whether you need a ride on trencher, rock wheel trencher or walk behind trencher, our suppliers will happily work with you to achieve your goals.
Whether it's a small trench or an expansive excavation project, we're here to provide you with wonderful service every step of the way. Reach out at projects@iseekplant.com.au or call 1300 691 912. Need a Ditch Witch pronto? Click 'Get a Quote' now.
"Thrupps Mulching & Ecavation is Travis Thrupp He is nothing short of his Bio. * Consistent in doing a No 1 professional job each time in the key areas..."
- K & R EllisView profile"Wonderful service! Roger gave us a quote based on photos of the job and held to the quote. He was polite, very professional, punctual and helped solve..."
- Ruth DView profile"We have hired equipment from C&L Worx and experienced a personal but still professional business transaction conveyed in a timely manner. We have also..."
- Stephen and Robyn PeekView profileHere are some frequently asked questions and tips on finding the Ditch Witch supplier for your job.
Skid steer vs Posi-Track: it’s all in the lingo You’ve probably heard t...
*Updated November 4th 2022 What are the Best Skid Steer Attachments? O...
A skid steer loader or sometimes referred to as a bobcat is one of the ...
Skid steer loaders or Bobcats (named after one of the leading manufactur...
Used typically in construction and landscaping work, skid steer loaders...