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Also known as tracked loaders or crawler loaders, Drotts play a crucial role in many construction projects across Australia. With 90 Drotts available for hire on iseekplant, we ensure every project can access high-quality, dependable machinery.
Characterised by their tracks and versatile front-end buckets, like front end loaders, these heavy-duty machines are indispensable in jobs where mobility and strength are paramount. In this guide, let's look at average Drott hire rates, sizes and specs, popular brands, alternatives and applications in civil construction.
Drott hire rates can vary based on machine size, location, project duration and additional attachments. The table below should help provide insight into the costs:
Drott Size | Wet Hire Rate (per hour) | Dry Hire Rate (per hour) |
---|---|---|
Small (under 80HP) | $80 - $110 | $60 - $85 |
Medium (80HP - 130HP) | $110 - $150 | $85 - $115 |
Large (over 130HP) | $150 - $200 | $115 - $160 |
Note: Rates vary depending on the machine's age, brand and location within Australia. All prices listed on this page are estimates, exclude GST and are in AUD.
Hiring a Drott isn't just about the upfront rental fees. Like any heavy machinery, extra expenses can arise based on various factors, including the project's duration, site conditions, operator costs and more.
These additional expenses are crucial in comprehensive project planning and avoiding unexpected financial surprises. Below is a table detailing these potential extra costs:
Potential Cost | Estimated Additional Cost |
---|---|
Transport to and from site | $100 - $500 |
Operator fees (if not included in wet hire) | $50 - $100 per hour |
Fuel (if not included) | $20 - $60 per hour |
Insurance | Varies based on provider and project specifics |
Attachment Hire (e.g., rippers, larger buckets) | $10 - $40 per hour |
Note: All prices listed are estimates, exclude GST and are in AUD.
Keep in mind that these figures are estimates, and the best way to budget for a Drott hire is to contact your preferred provider directly. Our Get a Quote tool to get an accurate, customised quote from our network of suppliers today!
The construction industry often considers Drotts the Swiss army knife due to their versatility, sizes and specifications tailored to different tasks. When hiring a Drott, the brand and its reputation can play a significant role in ensuring you get the right fit for your project.
Some popular brands known for their reliability and performance in the construction world include these standouts:
Brand | Popular Model | Specs | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|
Caterpillar (CAT) | CAT D5K | 104 hp, Operating Weight: 9,233 kg | Renowned durability; Advanced tech features | Slightly higher rental costs due to brand reputation |
Komatsu | D61PX-23 | 168 hp, Operating Weight: 18,900 kg | Innovative design; Energy-efficient engine | Parts can be more expensive |
Volvo | SD75B | 74.9 kW, Operating Weight: 7,000 kg | Ergonomic design; Efficient fuel consumption | Less common; may be harder to find replacement parts |
As with most heavy machinery, these brands and their most popular models have their strengths and weaknesses. With this guide, you can make a more informed decision when hiring a Drott for your construction needs.
While Drotts are versatile and widely recognised in the construction industry, other tracked loaders may fit specific project needs. Some popular alternatives include these heavy machinery:
The table below shows a quick comparison between these three alternatives and how they compare versus Drotts:
Alternative | Quick Specs | Pros | Cons | Comparison to Drotts |
---|---|---|---|---|
Compact Track Loaders (CTL) | Operating Load: 1,000-2,200 kg, Power: 50-100 hp | Modern features; Ideal for tight spaces | Less powerful than Drotts | CTLs are more maneuverable in confined spaces but might lack the power a Drott offers. |
Dozers | Operating Weight: 8,000-104,000 kg, Power: 80-700 hp | Raw power; Ideal for large earthmoving tasks | Not as versatile as Drotts | While dozers can handle larger tasks, they lack the multi-functionality of a Drott. |
Crawler Loaders | Operating Weight: 13,000-23,000 kg, Power: 75-150 hp | Fusion of bulldozer and wheel loader benefits | Might be overkill for smaller projects | Crawler loaders are versatile like Drotts but can be bulkier and less efficient for minor tasks. |
When choosing a tracked loader, it's essential to understand the task and select the machine that best aligns with your project's demands. Drotts offer a balance of power and versatility. However, depending on the project, one of these alternatives might be more suitable.
With their robustness and versatility, Drotts find numerous applications in the civil construction sector. Each application capitalises on the machine's strength, stability and flexibility to perform complex tasks.
Below are some of the primary uses of Drotts in civil construction:
Drotts can clear large areas quickly, removing rocks, debris and vegetation to prepare the site for subsequent construction phases. Their powerful hydraulic systems and blade attachments make them ideal for this role.
Grading or levelling is a fundamental task in civil projects. Drotts' broad blade ensures uniformity and precision, essential for laying foundations or paving roads.
Drotts can evenly distribute materials across a site. Whether sand, gravel or topsoil, their capabilities ensure consistent and smooth layering, optimising the substrate for subsequent construction phases.
While not their primary function, Drotts can handle minor excavation tasks, especially in areas with softer soils. Their ability to dig and move soil efficiently comes from the combination of their bucket and robust engine.
On smaller scales, Drotts can help dismantle structures. Their strength and ability to fit them with specific attachments make them suitable for tearing down old buildings or infrastructure.
Drotts can move heavy construction materials across a site with the proper attachment. Their tracked design ensures stability, even when transporting bulky loads over uneven terrains.
Understanding these applications can guide project managers and site engineers in leveraging Drotts to their maximum potential, ensuring timely and efficient project completion.
iseekplant is your trusted gateway to Australia's top Drott hire specialists. With our vast network of suppliers, you can find the perfect machinery to suit any construction need, no matter the scale.
Send us an email at projects@iseekplant.com.au or give us a ring at 1300 691 912. If you're eager to get started and need an immediate quote, simply click 'Get a Quote' now. Let's make your construction vision a reality!
"Dylan is great, professional, friendly, hard working. Has all the equipment and access to equipment for any job we threw at him was always affordable..."
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