Prime movers are large haulage trucks used to transport material, machinery, and other equipment long distances across Australia. They can be fitted with numerous different trailer types, like low loaders, to facilitate loading and unloading. They are durable machines able to haul heavy items across long distances with ease and are an excellent choice for moving heavy gear safely. The cost to hire a prime mover will depend entirely on the supplier, but other factors may affect the cost.
Discover rates for a wide range of machinery and equipment in our comprehensive machine hire rates guide.
What are prime movers used for?
Prime movers are used across a multitude of industries including the infrastructure and mining industries, able to cater to the flexibility required for each. They are mostly used for
- floating large machines (excavators, backhoes, tippers, etc.);
- transporting agricultural equipment (tractors, sprayers, etc.);
- transporting marine equipment (boats, personal watercraft, shipping containers, etc.); and
- moving oversized loads (portable homes, offices, etc.).
Prime mover hire rates
Prime mover rental rates will often be calculated per day with a 7.6-hour average day of travel and over 1,600 hours a year. A basic breakdown of costs may look like this:
| Totals per driving hour | Fixed costs | Notes |
| Fixed costs | $26.18 | Assuming fixed costs spread over 1,672 hours. |
| Variable costs | Dependent on use | Includes fuel, tyres, repairs, and maintenance. These vary with vehicle usage and fluctuating fuel prices. |
| Labour | $33.44 | This work example is based on a labour rate of $55,907 annually. |
| Total per hour (Up to 1,600 hours) | $71.85+ | Total includes fixed and labour costs, with variable costs additional. Note that this is an indicative rate and not a prescribed or recommended rate. |
These rates are a basic estimate and breakdown based on VIC and may change from state to state.
For a more accurate rental estimate, use our Get a Quote tool to connect with our prime mover suppliers. Remember, most suppliers prefer wet hire over dry hire, where their experienced drivers operate the rigs, ensuring safety and efficiency during transport. While dry hire options are available, they may be less common due to the expertise required to handle prime movers and the liability involved. Be sure to discuss your specific needs with suppliers to determine the best arrangement for your project.
Factors that affect prime mover hire rates
While these basic costs may be standard across all prime mover hire companies, there may be additional costs for circumstances that are irregular or outside of the standard 7.6-hour day.
Diesel costs
If diesel prices rise significantly, the cost of operating a prime mover can also increase, directly impacting hire rates. Companies often consider fuel efficiency as a critical factor when managing costs, as more fuel-efficient vehicles can help mitigate the effect of fluctuating fuel prices. Additionally, fuel economy plays a key role in determining operational expenses, as prime movers with better mileage reduce overall fuel consumption. These considerations are essential for hiring companies when setting competitive prices while maintaining profitability.
Emergency or outside-of-regular-hour calls
If someone needs emergency transport or machine float outside of regular hours or if a driver needs to drive for more than 7.6 hours, the price can increase. The prices may be for the truck itself and diesel or for the labour costs of the driver.
Oversized loads
Some oversized loads may incur extra fees, as the load weight can increase the hazards for the driver and may take longer to transport. Because oversized loads are dangerous to transport, drivers often have to travel at slower speeds, which can significantly increase costs.
Pilot drivers
Alongside oversized loads, you may see pilot drivers who will drive in front and behind a prime mover moving hazardous cargo. This is so the driver can see where they need to travel, and the pilot driver can signal any traffic, hazards, or any other issues ahead on the road.
Do I need a licence to operate a prime mover?
Operating a prime mover requires more than just a valid driver’s licence. You must obtain a Heavy Rigid (HR) Licence, which permits you to drive vehicles over 8 tonnes of Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) or those with three or more axles. Since most prime movers meet or exceed these specifications, a licensed operator is typically required. Additionally, for highway operations, the HR licence ensures operators have the necessary skills to handle the complexities of long-haul and heavy-duty transport safely and effectively.
Things to consider before hiring a prime mover
- What you need to be transported: If it is machined, this may affect the cost, whereas materials may be cheaper, for example.
- The distance you need to travel: The farther the distance, the longer it will take and the more it will cost.
- Licencing: Do you have the correct licence? If not, you will have to hire an operator.
- Certifications: Companies may not have the correct certifications to transport marine equipment, so always check before hiring someone.
- Insurance coverage: Ensure the company has adequate insurance to cover any potential damage or loss during transport, especially for high-value or specialized equipment.
Find the best prime mover hire
iseekplant is Australia’s largest online construction marketplace, and with a huge range of machines listed, there are plenty of options for prime mover hire near you. Simply search or use our Get a Quote Tool if you’ve narrowed it down.
If you need more information, email our projects team today and they can help you with any hiring questions. To help you find suppliers and contractors fast, download our seeker app today. With a few clicks, you can have someone on-site or a machine helping you get your job done quickly.