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300+ Low Loaders for Hire on iseekplant

Whether it's for construction, mining, or large-scale logistics, iseekplant boasts a comprehensive list of 300+ low loaders available for hire across Australia. From construction machinery transport to moving oversized items, our platform connects you with reliable low loader hire options from leading suppliers. Whether your project demands short-term rentals or long-term leasing, our network ensures you have access to the heavy transport solutions required for seamless project execution.

Need a Low Loader now? Use our Get a Quote tool to get quotes from relevant suppliers today. This quick guide highlights all there is to know about Low Loaders. You'll learn standard hire rates and other costs, specific rules for transporting heavy machinery on roads, different trucks for different applications and when you need a pilot vehicle.

Low Loader Hire Rates Guide

Low loaders are integral for transporting heavy machinery. The cost of hiring a low loader varies based on the model, capacity, and hire duration. The table below is a general guide to the daily, weekly, and monthly hire rates to help you budget for your project’s needs:

Low Loader TypeSizeDaily Hire RateWeekly Hire RateMonthly Hire Rate
Standard Low LoaderUp to 15t$350 - $550$1,400 - $2,200$5,600 - $8,800
Extendable Low Loader16t – 30t$400 - $600$1,600 - $2,400$6,400 - $9,600
Drop Deck Low Loader31t - 50t$450 - $650$1,800 - $2,600$7,200 - $10,400
Gooseneck Low Loader51t - 70t$500 - $700$2,000 - $2,800$8,000 - $11,200
Widening Low LoaderOver 70t$550 - $750$2,200 - $3,000$8,800 - $12,000
Dolly Low LoaderUp to 100 Tonnes$600 - $800$2,400 - $3,200$9,600 - $12,800

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

These rates are estimates based on the low loader's type, reflecting their specialised functionalities and capacities. The rates account for:

  • Standard Low Loader: Versatility for general heavy equipment transport.
  • Drop Deck Low Loader: Advantage for taller items due to its lowered deck.
  • Extendable Low Loader: Suitability for extra-long loads with its extendable feature.
  • Gooseneck Low Loader: Ease of loading with its distinctive neck design.
  • Widening Low Loader: Adaptability for wider loads, offering enhanced stability.
  • Dolly Low Loader: Added flexibility for complex hauling requirements, often used in combination with other low loader types for additional support or length.

These varied options ensure that for every specific heavy haulage need, there's a low loader configuration available, from transporting tall construction machinery to accommodating wide agricultural equipment.

Additional Costs to Consider When Hiring Low Loaders

When planning to hire a low loader, it's crucial to account for more than just the base hire rate. Several additional costs can influence the overall expense of your hire. Understanding these costs ensures better budgeting and planning for your project.

Additional CostStandard RateDescription
Insurance2% - 5% of hire costCovers damage to the low loader or third-party property.
Mobilisation/Demobilisation$500 - $1500Cost for delivering the low loader to your site and returning it.
Permit Fees$100 - $500Required for transporting oversized loads or using certain roads.
Escort Vehicles$200 - $600 per dayNecessary for oversized loads to ensure safety and compliance.
Standby Charges$100 - $300 per dayFees for keeping the low loader on standby beyond the initial hire period.

Considering these additional expenses early on can provide a more accurate picture of the total cost involved in hiring a low loader. Use our Get a Quote tool to connect with our suppliers to get a customised quote for your project today!

Comparing Different Types of Low Loaders

Low loaders are essential trailers in heavy haulage, each designed with specific features to accommodate various transport needs. Here's a detailed look at the different types available:

  • Standard Low Loaders: These trailers are the backbone of equipment transport, offering a reliable platform for moving standard-sized machinery. They are versatile, making them suitable for a broad range of industries, from construction to agriculture.
  • Drop Deck Low Loaders: Characterised by their drop-in deck height behind the gooseneck, these low loaders are perfect for taller items that require additional clearance. The lower deck height allows for the safe and legal transport of equipment that might otherwise exceed height restrictions on roads.
  • Extendable Low Loaders: Designed for hauling exceptionally long loads, extendable low loaders feature a deck that can be extended to accommodate the length of the cargo. This adaptability is crucial for transporting wind turbine blades or long structural beams.
  • Gooseneck Low Loaders: Featuring a detachable front that allows the deck to be lowered onto the ground, gooseneck low loaders make loading and unloading of heavy machinery easier. The gooseneck design is perfect for equipment that can be driven onto the trailer, such as excavators or bulldozers.
  • Widening Low Loaders: These trailers can be widened to increase their deck width, providing stability and space for wider loads. The ability to adjust the width makes them indispensable for transporting large construction machinery or oversized structures.
  • Dolly Low Loaders: Dolly low loaders incorporate an additional set of wheels (a dolly) for distributing the load's weight more evenly. This feature is particularly useful for extremely heavy or long loads, improving manoeuvrability and reducing strain on the prime mover.

When choosing a low loader, like any piece of heavy machinery, choosing the right brand and model is as pivotal as moving your heavy equipment. Let’s look at some of the top players in the low loader segment and compare their specs, advantages, and disadvantages:

Low Loader TypePopular OEM & ModelTechnical SpecsCapacityProsCons
Standard Low LoaderMaxitrans ST3Tri-axle, hydraulic rampsUp to 45 TonnesHighly versatile for a range of loadsMay not suit very long or tall equipment
Drop Deck Low LoaderKenworth C500Hydraulic gooseneck, drop deckUp to 40 TonnesLower deck height for tall loadsLimited by length for extremely long cargo
Extendable Low LoaderTRT Quad AxleExtendable deck up to 20 metresUp to 50 TonnesAdjustable length for long loadsComplex operation; higher cost
Gooseneck Low LoaderGoldhofer STZ-L5Detachable gooseneck, hydraulic suspensionUp to 60 TonnesEasy loading of machinery; good weight distributionRequires space for detachment and attachment
Widening Low LoaderFreighter T-LinerHydraulic widening up to 3.5 metresUp to 70 TonnesWide load capability for large machineryRequires careful handling on narrow roads
Dolly Low LoaderVawdrey Australia DollyDolly converter with multiple axlesUp to 100 TonnesAdds flexibility and capacity to standard trailersAdditional licensing and skill to operate

Applications and Uses of Low Loaders in Different Industries

Low loaders are critical to the transportation needs of a diverse range of industries. Their adaptability and capacity for handling substantial loads make them indispensable, particularly with the logistical challenges from different terrains and project scales. Identifying the most suitable low loader for a specific industry can increase efficiency and safety in executing your projects.

Here’s a detailed table comparing the applications of low loaders in various industries, highlighting the best-suited low loader model for each sector and explaining the rationale behind each choice:

IndustryBest Low Loader ModelWhy?
ConstructionExtendable Low LoaderBest for its adjustable length; Can accommodate various machinery sizes, from tunnel borers to cranes.
MiningHeavy-Duty Low LoaderPreferred for its durability and high capacity; Essential for transporting heavy mining equipment.
AgricultureDrop Deck Low LoaderThe lower deck facilitates easy loading and safe transport of tall farming machinery.
Wind EnergyWidening Low LoaderIts widening capability ensures stability and ample space for large components like turbine blades.

Low Loaders, Drop Decks, Floats & Beaver Tails – What Truck Do you Need?

The type of truck you choose can significantly impact the ease of loading, transit safety and unloading efficiency. Whether you're moving an excavator, towering machinery or a medium-sized dozer, understanding the differences between low loaders, drop decks, floats and beaver tails can ensure a seamless transport experience.

Here’s a quick rundown between these options:

Truck TypeBest ForWhy?
Low LoadersHeavy machineryTheir low deck height makes loading and offloading quick and easy.
Drop DecksTall equipmentThey are similar to low loaders with two deck levels. The top level is removable, which is ideal for tall equipment.
FloatsMining equipmentThese pieces are perfect for handling extreme weights.
Beaver TailsMedium-sized equipmentTheir sloping rears are ideal for driving equipment such as excavators or dozers and loading them onto the trailer.

Your choice should reflect the machinery's size, weight and loading/unloading requirements.

Rules for Floating Machines on Paved Road

Transporting machines on paved roads in Australia requires compliance with national and state regulations. It's vital to ensure:

  • Correct permits are obtained
  • Machines are secured safely
  • The load doesn't exceed weight and size restrictions
  • The vehicle and load combination adheres to road-worthy standards

Adherence to these rules prevents accidents and avoids hefty fines.

When Do you Need a Pilot Vehicle?

Pilot vehicles, also known as escort vehicles, play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and smooth transportation of oversized loads on Australian roads. These specialised vehicles serve as a 'guardian' for your freight, alerting other road users of the approaching oversized load and ensuring that all road safety protocols are strictly followed.

Their responsibilities include communicating with the truck driver, guiding the load through tight spaces or detours, warning oncoming traffic and assisting in the safe navigation of intersections.

Now, while they're essential for large-scale transports, not every load requires one. Here's a quick guide to understanding when they're mandated:

  • Width: If your load exceeds a width of 3.5 meters, you'll typically need one pilot vehicle. Surpass 4.5 meters, and two might be in order.
  • Length: Loads stretching beyond 25 meters in length necessitate the presence of a pilot vehicle.
  • Travelled Area: If you're transporting through densely populated or high-traffic areas, the requirements for pilot vehicles become more stringent to ensure public safety.
  • Time of Travel: Moving your oversized load during the night poses additional risks, often necessitating more escort vehicles for adequate safety.

Always remember that while these are general guidelines, regulations can vary between states. Always consult your local state regulations to stay compliant and ensure a hassle-free transit.

Do You Really Need a Low Loader?

Low loaders are designed to transport large, heavy machinery. However, a flatbed truck or a flat bed trailer is enough for smaller equipment or shorter distances. Ensure you assess the weight and dimensions of your equipment before making a hire decision.

Seamlessly Transport Your Heavy Loads with Low Loaders on iseekplant

When it comes to moving oversized equipment, precision and safety are paramount. iseekplant makes hiring low loaders simple and efficient. Our network spans Australia, connecting you to a wide selection of low loader suppliers, each vetted for reliability and service quality, perfectly matching your project's specific transportation needs. Post your job requirements and get multiple quotes from trusted professionals.

And if you're looking for comprehensive transport solutions, we've got you covered with additional services, including pilot vehicles and escort services, to ensure your cargo arrives without a hitch.

For any questions or to get personalised assistance, don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or give us a call at 1300 691 912. If you're ready to streamline your heavy haulage process, click 'Get a Quote' and let us connect you with the best in the business.

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