Concrete mixer and plate compactor hire: how to order at a good price
First work out the volume of work
A concrete mixer and a plate compactor work at different stages. The plate compacts sand and crushed stone under a pavement, a path or a foundation bed, and the mixer prepares the concrete. A mistake in power leads either to poor compaction or to paying for more than you need.
For a mixer, the most important thing is the drum volume. Mixers of 130–180 litres suit small pours, and for a big foundation it is better to take a larger one or several. The real usable volume per batch is smaller than the one printed on the body, so ask the owner.
What to put in your request
- Type of equipment — concrete mixer, plate compactor, rammer, poker vibrator.
- Specifications — drum volume in litres, plate weight in kilograms, petrol or electric (230 V).
- What the work is — compacting 60 sq m under paving, pouring a foundation, a screed.
- Period — dates and number of days.
- Quantity — how many units.
- Delivery — to the site or pick-up, as a plate compactor is heavy.
- Deposit — whether you will leave one or want none.
- City or area and budget.
Example request
“I need a petrol plate compactor of 90–100 kg for 2 days to compact a sand bed of about 60 sq m under paving. Also a 180 litre concrete mixer, 230 V. Johannesburg, delivery to the site needed. Budget up to R 330 per day.”
What to check during inspection
On a plate compactor, check the base plate and engine mounts, and make sure it starts without effort and does not “wander” when working. On a mixer, check the ring gear and the drive so the drum turns without jamming, and whether there is a socket or a cable of the right length.
Ask who cleans the equipment after work. Hardened concrete in the drum is a typical cause of disputes about fines. So wash the drum straight after pouring, while the mix is still fresh.
How to compare offers
- Petrol or electric: a petrol plate does not depend on a socket, but needs fuel.
- Plate weight: a heavier one compacts thick layers better, a lighter one is handier on small areas.
- Delivery: it can change the total a lot, so compare prices including it.
- Terms of fines for dirt and damage.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
Describe the job in one request, and hire companies and equipment owners reply in the chat with price, terms and delivery. They see where their offer stands and compete for your request. Contacts stay hidden until you choose. More details: how it works. For a building site you may also find useful formwork hire, scaffolding hire and generator hire, if there is no electricity.
