Forklift hire

Forklift hire is a must for warehouses, construction sites and industrial operations for lifting, moving and stacking heavy materials safely. Here we have a complete rental guide to answer all your forklift hire questions including types, forklift hire rates, additional costs, attachments and FAQs. Check out the related articles and categories for more help on choosing the right machine from forklift hire companies across Australia.

Hire Forklifts from Suppliers Near You

ACT NSW NT QLD SA VIC WA

Range of Forklifts for Hire

An extensive range of forklifts for various tasks including electric forklifts for indoor operation, lpg or petrol forklifts for outdoor use and construction sites with uneven grounds, and telehandler hire. Whatever your project, we have the right forklift for the job.

New Additions

Explore various models of forklifts from hire companies near you.

Hyster H16.00 Counterbalance Forklift

Hyster H8.0 Counterbalance Forklift

Hyster H5.0 Counterbalance Forklift

Hyster H4.0 Counterbalance Forklift

Hyster H3.0 Counterbalance Forklift

Hyster H2.5 Counterbalance Forklift

XCMG FD25T Counterbalance Forklift

Kalmar DCG160 Counterbalance Forklift

Crown CD90S Counterbalance Forklift

XCMG FD35T Rough Terrain Forklift

Manitou M-X 50 Rough Terrain Forklift

Liftsmart LS-RT50 Rough Terrain Forklift

Forklift Hire Rates

Cost to hire a forklift depends on the type of the forklift and also offer terms. Forklifts are available for short term and long term hire from $150 to $500 per day, depending on hire terms and forklift models, with long term options available at discounted rates. Please note that delivering the forklift, fuel, and contractor charges come extra and may vary based on your chosen forklift hire solution.

Forklift Type	Dry	Wet
Counterbalance Forklift	$25 – $45p/h +GST	$65 – $90p/h +GST
Rough Terrain Forklift	$40 – $70p/h +GST	$80 – $130p/h +GST
Telehandler	$50 – $90p/h +GST	$100 – $160p/h +GST

Dry Hire vs Wet Hire

When it comes to hiring equipment, you are generally presented with these two options. The choice will depend on whether you possess the experience required in operating the machine you are hiring or need external assistance.

Dry Hire Businesses or individuals who have expertise operating the hire themselves may find this option suitable, where only the plant is rented.

If you already have trained staff, then this is the best option.
When you possess the knowledge necessary to operate the equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
If you wish to save on costs and are confident in managing the vehicle.
For longer-term construction projects, where hiring assistance may become expensive.

Although hiring equipment this way can be less expensive, the renter is in charge of running the unit, including any repairs or maintenance that may be required.

Wet Hire The need for both the plant and a trained controller is sometimes referred to as wet hire. This choice is ideal if you lack the staff or require someone with particular knowledge to do so.

When a qualified staff is unavailable.
When an experienced technician is needed for the range of construction jobs to guarantee efficiency and safety.
When you want the ease of having someone tackle short-term jobs.
Whether you are performing jobs that call for a certain set of skills, including negotiating challenging terrain or precise excavation.

Such rental may be more expensive, yet it offers further assurance by a qualified individual who can manage unforeseen difficulties.

Additional Hire Costs

Fuel, delivery, insurance, and accessories may incur additional hire fees based on your hire agreement. The overall cost may also be impacted by additional fees, damage waivers, and excess usage costs.

Attachments: Specialized tools, such as compaction wheels, rock breakers, or augers, might cost extra and usually range from $20 to $50 per hour.

Travel and Mobilization: Some providers charge for the time it takes for the operator to travel. If you decide to upgrade later, there can be an additional cost involved.

Minimum Hire Durations: For machinery weighing up to eight tonnes, many companies impose minimum hire durations of three hours + one hour for travel.

Penalty Rates: There may be an additional fee, often around 30%, for work done on Sundays, public holidays, or beyond regular business hours.

Since pricing might vary depending on area demand and availability, it is best to request multiple quotes for the most accurate and current rates.

Forklift Attachments Available

Range of forklifts available attachments includes extensions to lift long loads, rotators to dump bins and jibs to lift suspended loads.

Fork Extensions – Extend fork length to carry longer loads safely.

Jib Attachments – Lift suspended loads like pipes or beams.

Rotators – Rotate forks for bin emptying and tipping tasks.

Side Shifters – Allow forks to move side-to-side for precise placement.

Clamp Attachments – Secure awkward or non-palletised items like drums or cartons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Forklift Hire Questions

Where can I find a forklift rental in Sydney or Melbourne?

In Australia forklift hire services are provided by national rental companies, local machinery dealers and online platforms. Whether you need a hire for a day or long term forklift hire in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane you will find the best providers that offer flexible hire options.

What is the lifting capacity of a standard forklift?

Most counterbalanced forklifts lift 1.5 to 3 tonnes, while all terrain forklifts, diesel forklifts and telehandlers can lift 4 to 20 tonnes depending on configuration.

Can forklift trucks be used outside?

Yes, common forklift machines are suitable for outdoor use, on stable or compacted surfaces. Electric forklifts are for indoor lifting.

Do I need a licence to operate a forklift in Australia?

To be using a forklift in Australia you need a high-risk work licence (LF) after completing accredited training and assessment. Employers also require a White Card (General Construction Induction Card) for site access.

How much do I pay to hire an electric, petrol or diesel forklift?

Whether you need a forklift with an operator or not, expect hourly rates from $10 to $40 for dry and $30 to $80 for wet hire. Daily forklift rental is around $50 to $200 depending on the model, short and long term hire period and location.

Which forklift brands are the best?

Top brands are Toyota for reliability, Nissan and Hyster for industrial performance, Manitou and JCB for all terrain forklifts, and Crown for electric forklifts. We have quality new and used forklifts to suit your needs.