Temporary Bridge Hire

Temporary bridges are used to provide short-term crossing solutions over rivers, streams, or gaps where permanent structures are unavailable, under construction, or damaged. They enable the safe movement of vehicles, machinery, and personnel during construction, maintenance, or emergency situations.

Common applications include:

• Construction sites – facilitating access for equipment and materials.
• Emergency or disaster response – replacing damaged infrastructure quickly.
• Events or temporary road diversions – maintaining traffic flow where permanent bridges are impractical.

These bridges are designed for rapid deployment, durability, and load-bearing capacity, ensuring safety and continuity of operations until permanent structures are in place.

The cost of hiring a temporary bridge depends on factors such as bridge type, length, load capacity, hire duration, and delivery/setup requirements. Smaller pedestrian or light-vehicle bridges may cost around $500 to $1,500 per day, while larger bridges for heavy machinery or trucks can range from $2,000 to $5,000+ per day.

Weekly or longer-term hires usually reduce the average daily rate, and additional costs may apply for transport, installation, and site preparation. Exact pricing depends on site conditions, bridge specifications, and supplier, so requesting a tailored quote is recommended for accurate budgeting.

The load capacity of temporary bridges varies depending on their design, materials, and intended use. Common ranges include:

• Pedestrian bridges: 2–5 tonnes – suitable for foot traffic and light equipment.
• Light vehicle bridges: 5–20 tonnes – designed for cars, small trucks, or site machinery.
• Heavy-duty bridges: 20–80 tonnes or more – capable of supporting large trucks, construction equipment, or emergency vehicles.

Selecting the right bridge depends on expected traffic, vehicle types, and site conditions, ensuring safety and structural integrity during temporary use.

Yes, temporary bridges can span waterways such as rivers, streams, or drainage channels. They are designed to provide safe passage for vehicles, machinery, and personnel while accommodating variable water levels and flow conditions.

Factors considered for spanning waterways include:

• Bridge length and load capacity – to safely support expected traffic.
• Foundation and support structures – such as abutments, piers, or floating pontoons.
• Hydraulic and environmental conditions – including water depth, current, and flood potential.

Properly engineered temporary bridges ensure reliable, safe crossings while minimising environmental impact on the waterway.

Temporary bridges are installed using a systematic process to ensure safety, stability, and rapid deployment. The installation generally involves:

1. Site preparation – clearing and levelling the ground, and constructing abutments or supports if needed.
2. Bridge assembly – connecting modular sections or positioning pre-fabricated panels using cranes or other lifting equipment.
3. Securing the bridge – anchoring or stabilising the structure to prevent movement under load.
4. Inspection and testing – verifying alignment, load distribution, and safety compliance before allowing traffic.

Proper installation ensures the bridge safely supports vehicles and equipment, maintains site efficiency, and meets regulatory and engineering standards.