Tilt trays are heavy-duty vehicles designed to transport machinery, heavy equipment, and heavy vehicles of various sizes with ease. Ideal for moving fragile or high-value equipment, these trucks use advanced hydraulic systems to operate their tilting platforms, ensuring safe, smooth, and controlled loading and unloading.
Commonly used in the construction industry, mining, and logistics, tilt trays provide a fast, safe, and reliable way to move heavy loads. They are essential for transporting container loads from ports to final destinations across Australia. Operating a tilt tray requires a Heavy Rigid licence, and skilled drivers ensure secure loading, transport, and unloading, minimising risks for businesses handling heavy or delicate cargo.
Discover rates for a wide range of machinery and equipment in our comprehensive machine hire rates guide.
What is the average cost to hire a tilt tray truck?
The cost of hiring a tilt tray truck depends on factors such as load capacity, distance, and company pricing. Tilt trays are widely used to transport heavy machinery, making them essential for industries that require safe and efficient equipment relocation. In Australia, different tilt tray companies offer varying rates based on truck size and maintenance costs. Below, we’ll explore the average hire rates and the load capacities of different tilt tray trucks.
8-wheeler tilt tray
The monster that is the 8-wheeler tilt tray is a heavy-duty vehicle capable of carrying up to 13.5 tonnes over long distances. It’s commonly used to transport tow trucks, excavators, skid steer loaders, compaction equipment, and forklifts, ensuring they are transported safely to their destinations. Hiring an 8-wheeler costs around $115 per hour (including GST) in Australia, with additional costs based on distance and terrain.
Large bogie axle tilt tray
This tilt tray is designed for safely carrying and moving empty and loaded shipping containers. It can also be used to carry skid steer loaders, small trucks, medium-sized compaction equipment, excavators, and forklifts. It can carry up to 11 tonnes of weight and is often equipped with a winch for secure loading. The cost of hiring a large bogie axle tilt tray usually floats around $105.00 per hour (including GST).
Large single-axle tilt tray
The large single-axle tilt tray is ideal for transporting load containers (empty or full), skid steer loaders, site sheds, small trucks, mini excavators, forklifts, and compaction equipment. Its tilting mechanism allows for controlled and secure unloading, making it ideal for transporting delicate or heavy loads.
It can carry up to 6.5 tonnes and features a 3.5t capacity towbar. Hiring costs around $95 per hour, but it’s not suitable for heavier loads beyond its listed capacity.
Large single-axle utility tray with crane
The large single-axle utility tray is ideal for emergency jobs, transporting small items, pallets, generators, and equipment. It features a crane for easy loading and lifting loads onto surfaces as needed. With a 2.2-tonne carrying capacity and a 3.5-tonne towbar, it can handle various tasks. Hiring costs $65 per hour plus GST.
Other methods of estimating the hire of a tilt tray truck
Hiring a tilt tray truck isn’t just about hours of use—whether it’s short- or long-term hire, several factors impact the cost. These include load size, transport distance, and additional services. Let’s take a look at these factors:
The truck usage
Tilt tray usage varies across Australia, with different models available to suit specific needs. Operators may charge load-carrying fees in addition to hourly rates for transporting heavy-duty vehicles to construction sites. The average hire rate is $150 per hour, with an extra $30 fee if the load exceeds capacity. Pricing may vary by location and load size.
Distances covered
Some tilt tray hire companies base their rates on distance travelled. Longer hauls often incur additional charges beyond standard hire rates. In Australia, distance-based hire costs average 30c/km, with a maximum of 400km per day or 2,800km per week. Rates may vary outside Melbourne and depend on agreements with individual providers.
Fuelling of trucks
Tilt tray trucks are hired with a full tank of fuel and must be refilled before returning to the hire company. Some providers charge a refuelling fee if the truck is returned without a full tank, so it’s best to confirm fuel policies before hiring.
Tips for hiring a tilt tray
Look for experts
Managing and maintaining a tilt tray is a job that only professionals can handle perfectly. So before you choose any particular tilt tray service, choose the ones with the best experts in transport services in Australia. Check out their reviews and ensure they can meet your specific requirements before making a decision.
Specifications
You also need to know the maximum load capacity each tilt tray can carry before hiring them. Tilt trays come in different sizes and weights, and that includes their ability to be of perfect use. Take time to study their specifications to ensure they match your transport needs.
Location
Heavy loads are not ideal for long-distance transport, so it’s best to hire a tilt tray close to your location to avoid excessive costs. Many interstate tilt tray services operate out of Perth and Melbourne, providing options for longer hauls when needed.
Find tilt tray suppliers at iseekplant
Tilt trays are ideal for moving shipping loads and meeting deadlines, so choosing the right hire service is essential for efficiency and cost savings. iseekplant connects you with professional tilt tray truck rentals and delivery services across Australia at competitive rates.
Compare prices instantly with our Get a Quote tool, or request quotes from multiple providers to find the best option for your needs. Our experienced team is here to help—email us today for expert advice on tilt tray hire and pricing.