Stop me if you’ve heard this one before…

You’ve got scaffolding up, the job’s moving, but materials? They’re slowing everything down. Workers are carrying loads manually, lifts are taking longer than they should, and what should be a smooth workflow starts to feel like a bottleneck.

It’s frustrating — because the structure is there, the team is ready, but the system isn’t built for efficiency.

That’s where the conversation around loading platform vs scaffolding really matters. Not because one replaces the other, but because one solves a problem the other simply wasn’t designed for.

In this article, you’ll see exactly why more sites are leaning towards loading platform hire — and whether it’s the right move for your project.

What Scaffolding Does Well (And Where It Falls Short)

Scaffolding is essential. There’s no debate there.

It gives your team:

• Safe access to height
• A stable working platform
• Coverage across large building areas

If your job involves façade work, installs, or finishing — scaffolding is doing exactly what it should.

But here’s the issue…

Scaffolding was never designed for moving materials efficiently.

When you rely on it for that, you end up with:

• Manual handling slowing things down
• Increased fatigue and safety risks
• Inefficient movement of bulk materials

It works — but it’s not optimised.

What a Loading Platform Does Differently

A loading platform is built with one clear purpose: get materials where they need to be, fast.

Instead of relying on workers to move items piece by piece, a loading platform allows you to:

• Lift bulk materials directly via crane
• Land them exactly where they’re needed
• Reduce unnecessary handling
• Keep workflow moving without interruption

It changes the way your site operates.

You’re no longer working around limitations — you’re removing them.

Loading Platform vs Scaffolding: The Real Difference

This isn’t just a comparison — it’s a shift in how you think about site efficiency.

Scaffolding helps your team work at height.
Loading platforms help your site move at speed.

When you rely only on scaffolding:

• Materials take longer to move
• Labour demand increases
• Small delays stack up

When you introduce a loading platform:

• Materials arrive in bulk, exactly where needed
• Crane time is used efficiently
• Your team spends more time building, less time carrying

That’s why more projects are moving towards loading platform hire not as a replacement, but as a performance upgrade.

Why More Construction Sites Are Choosing Loading Platform Hire

There’s a reason this shift is happening.

It comes down to three things: time, safety, and cost control.

1. Faster Project Timelines

Every minute spent moving materials manually is time lost. A loading platform removes that friction.

2. Improved Site Safety

Less manual handling means fewer injuries, less strain, and a safer working environment.

3. Better Use of Labour

Your team is there to build — not to act as a transport system.

4. Scalable for Larger Projects

As buildings get taller, inefficiencies grow. Loading platforms scale with your project — scaffolding alone doesn’t.

“Is Loading Platform Hire Worth It?”

This is the question most site managers ask — and it’s a fair one.

At first glance, it can feel like an added cost.

But look closer.

Without a loading platform, you’re paying for:

• Extra labour hours
• Slower material movement
• Potential delays
• Increased risk

With a loading platform, you’re investing in:

• Speed
• Efficiency
• Predictability

And in most cases, that trade-off pays for itself.

The Smart Approach: Use Both But Lean on Efficiency

Here’s the reality: you still need scaffolding.

But relying on it alone for everything? That’s where projects lose momentum.

The most efficient sites today use:

• Scaffolding for access
• Loading platforms for movement

But the difference is this, they lean on loading platforms to keep everything flowing.

Final Takeaway: Build Smarter, Not Harder

If your project is small and material movement is minimal, scaffolding alone might get the job done.

But if you’re working on anything with scale, height, or tight deadlines, sticking with scaffolding as your only solution can quietly hold you back.

A loading platform isn’t just an add-on — it’s a smarter way to run your site.

Ready to Speed Up Your Site?

If you want to reduce delays, improve safety, and keep your project moving, it’s time to look at a better system.

Learn more about loading platform hire

The post Loading Platform vs Scaffolding: Why Loading Platform Hire Is the Smarter Choice appeared first on Preston Hire.

Construction across Australia is evolving. Sites are tighter, builds are taller, and efficiency is no longer optional. Traditional lifting methods often struggle to keep up with these demands, especially in confined or complex environments.

That is where mini crane hire in Australia is becoming a critical solution.

At Preston Hire Australia, mini cranes are not just equipment on standby. They are part of a smarter, more strategic approach to lifting that improves productivity, safety, and overall site performance.

What is Mini Crane Hire?

Mini cranes, also known as spider cranes, are compact lifting machines designed for projects where space is limited but lifting capability is still essential.

Unlike larger cranes, mini cranes can:

• Fit through standard doorways and tight access points
• Operate indoors and on suspended slabs
• Be positioned closer to the lift zone for precision work

This makes them ideal for modern construction environments where access constraints are a daily challenge.

Why Mini Crane Hire is in Demand Across Australia

From Sydney high rise developments to infrastructure upgrades and industrial installs, contractors are turning to mini crane hire for one key reason. It solves real problems on site.

Built for Tight Access Projects

Mini crane hire in Sydney and other major cities is growing rapidly due to space constraints. These machines can operate in areas where tower cranes or mobile cranes cannot reach.

Reduce Tower Crane Dependency

By handling internal and level specific lifts, mini cranes reduce pressure on tower cranes. This leads to better scheduling, fewer delays, and improved workflow across trades.

Improve Site Safety

Mini cranes minimise manual handling and allow controlled lifting in confined spaces. This reduces risk and creates safer working conditions for crews.

Increase Efficiency and Speed

Quick setup times and flexible positioning mean lifts can be completed faster, keeping projects moving and reducing downtime.

Preston Hire Australia Mini Crane Fleet

Preston Hire Australia offers a specialised fleet of mini cranes from globally recognised manufacturers including MAEDA and UNIC.

These machines are trusted across construction, glazing, mechanical services, and infrastructure projects for their:

• Precision lifting capabilities
• Compact design for restricted access
• Reliability in demanding site conditions

More importantly, Preston Hire goes beyond equipment supply. The team works closely with clients to understand project requirements and deliver the right lifting solution from the start.

Common Applications for Mini Crane Hire

Mini cranes are used across a wide range of industries and applications, making them one of the most versatile lifting solutions available.

Construction and High Rise Projects

Ideal for multi level developments where materials need to be lifted floor by floor without over relying on tower cranes.

Glass Installation and Façade Work

Perfect for glazing projects requiring precise placement in tight or elevated positions.

Mechanical and Electrical Services

Used for installing plant equipment, HVAC systems, and heavy components in restricted environments.

Infrastructure and Maintenance

Suitable for bridge works, upgrades, and maintenance tasks where access is limited.

Industrial and Plant Work

Mini cranes can operate inside facilities, making them ideal for shutdowns and equipment installations.

Learn more about mini crane applications

Why Preston Hire is More Than a Hire Company

In a competitive construction environment, having the right equipment is only part of the solution. Knowing how to use it effectively is what drives real value.

Preston Hire Australia positions itself as a solution partner, not just a supplier.

That means:

• Expert guidance on the best lifting strategy
• Equipment matched to your specific project needs
• Reliable support from experienced teams
• A focus on improving safety, efficiency, and cost outcomes

It is about delivering results, not just equipment.

Mini Crane Hire Sydney and Nationwide

Whether you are working on a high density build in Sydney or a regional infrastructure project, access challenges remain the same.

Mini crane hire provides a flexible and scalable solution that can adapt to different environments across Australia.

With a strong national presence, Preston Hire ensures consistent service, fast mobilisation, and dependable equipment wherever your project is located.

The Future of Lifting on Australian Job Sites

As construction continues to move toward smarter, more efficient methods, compact lifting solutions will play a bigger role.

Mini crane hire is no longer a niche option. It is becoming a standard part of site planning for projects that demand precision, safety, and speed.

Speak to Preston Hire Today

If your project involves tight access, complex lifts, or the need to improve efficiency on site, mini crane hire could be the difference.

Speak to Preston Hire Australia today and discover how a smarter lifting approach can support your next project.

CONTACT US

The post Mini Crane Hire in Australia: The Smart Solution for Tight Access Lifting appeared first on Preston Hire.

Need to lift a Heating and Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit to a seemingly inaccessible area or to hoist tiles or shingles to a roof for replacement? HVAC and roofing projects can pose many challenges, particularly those in multi-storey residences or commercial settings. Enter the mini crane! You can count on Preston Hire to supply you with heavy lifting equipment that will guarantee precise, safe, and efficient air conditioning unit installation and the quick hoisting of materials for roof renovations or replacement.  

From their versatility to their compact size, allow us to outline four reasons why mini crane hire is critical to the safe and timely completion of HVAC installation and roofing projects.   

1. Mine Cranes Facilitate a Safe and Efficient Workflow

Getting the job done safely is always the number one priority when it comes to construction or installation jobs. HVAC units are hefty and cumbersome, making the manual process of hoisting and manoeuvring them into place fraught with safety risks. In certain cases, such as commercial or other multi-level buildings, manual installation is not even an option, with these massive heating and cooling units weighing thousands of kilograms. Using specialist lifting equipment like a mini crane significantly reduces the risk of injury to personnel and streamlines the process, aiding timely project completion. 

Likewise, these machines make short work of hoisting the required materials for roof renovations or replacement jobs. Although these machines are compact with a small footprint, Preston Hire’s mini crane fleet can lift heavy loads to significant heights. For instance, our Maeda MC815C can lift loads up to 2.39 tons to an impressive height of 19.6m. Without the need to manually carry materials, roofing projects are completed in a fraction of the time and reduce the potential for staff injuries. 

2. Their Compact Size Makes Mini Cranes Perfect for Heavy Lifting in Confined Spaces

City landscapes are characterised by narrow passageways, closely packed buildings, and limited access areas, making HVAC installations and lifting roofing material particularly tricky in urban centres. A mini crane’s ability to fit in narrow spaces, however, enables easy manoeuvring and the possibility of lifting an air conditioning unit or other materials straight to the roof. The extendable legs of these heavy lifters provide extra stability when hoisting loads in smaller spaces. These outriggers can also be conveniently folded up, allowing a mini crane to fit through doorways or other tight spaces that most cranes cannot.  

3. Mini Crane Hire Helps Keep Costs Low

Mini crane hire is a cost-effective solution as it ensures that your HVAC or roofing projects are completed as efficiently and quickly as possible, reducing labour costs. The added safety benefits of using a crane for lifting over manual labour also reduces the risk of costly personnel, building, or equipment injury. Their versatility and manoeuvrability can also provide savings as a mini crane typically negates the need for scaffolding or other additional equipment.  

4. Mini Crane Hire Reduces the Risk of Damage

The meticulous engineering of modern cranes enables them to perform precise lifts with pinpoint accuracy. This ensures that HVAC units or roofing materials are safely and exactly placed, reducing the potential to cause damage to surrounding equipment or property or to the HVAC unit or roofing materials themselves.  

Final thoughts 

Preston Hire’s mini crane fleet offers a range of specialist lifting equipment in varying sizes and specifications, meaning you can COUNT ON US for all your HVAC installation and roofing project needs. The possibilities are endless with our impressive SuperCrane range. Interested in hiring one of our mini cranes? Give us a call on 1800 440 550 or you can contact us through our website. 

The post 4 Reasons Why Preston Hire’s Mini Cranes are the Best Solution for HVAC and Roofing Projects  appeared first on Preston Hire.

The construction industry is an important contributor to the Australian economy, employing over one million people and generating an estimated revenue of $472.3 billion dollars a year. However, there are many pain points faced by construction companies that challenge growth, productivity, and profitability. Factors like project delays, price increases on materials, and inefficient work practices continue to negatively impact the return on investment for projects. More and more, companies are seeking improved timelines, costs, and workflow efficiencies on their job sites.  

The following covers the most common pain points faced by construction companies and what you can do about it.  

• Problem #1:  Rising Project Expenses 

Rising costs continue to impede the growth of construction companies. Supply chain disruptions, inflation, high prices for raw materials, and the surge in electricity and oil prices, among other factors, has resulted in a continual upward trend in the cost of construction projects. This is exerting sustained pressure on fixed-price contracts and margin targets, leading to lower returns on investment and higher rates of insolvency.  

• Problem #2: Poor Productivity 

According to a 2023 report by the Australian Contractors Association, the most important issue facing the Australia construction industry is poor productivity. Despite strong levels of construction activity, productivity has decreased over the last three decades. Bringing productivity in line with the economy wide average would unlock an additional $56 billion in construction revenue each year. One reason for this reduced productivity relates to challenges faced on site, such as material handling inefficiencies, that result in stretched project timelines.  

• Problem #3: Skilled Labour Shortage 

The scarcity of skilled labourers is an ongoing issue for construction companies. Infrastructure Australia forecasted a deficit of 131,000 full-time labourer positions in 2024. Skilled labour shortage is an issue primarily driven by two factors: declining apprenticeship numbers and an aging workforce. This imbalance between the available workforce and the labour demands of projects often leads to delayed timelines, incurring penalties and reducing profits. Many companies, therefore, are looking for solutions that help mitigate the shortage of skilled labourers.      

• Problem #4: Outdated Installation Methods 

When it comes to material handling requirements on construction sites, loading platforms continue to be the tool of choice. However, traditional loading platforms can cause costly delays due to their outdated installation method. It takes upwards of 45 minutes to install, relocate, or remove fixed decks, in part due to the required minimum of six re-shore props and the fact that they cannot be bolted down. Although loading platforms help to streamline material handling needs on site, this timely installation method negatively impacts productivity on site.     

How a Planned System Can Help  

Investing in hire equipment to enhance productivity, reduce labour costs, and streamline workflow on site is the solution. Innovation in resolving the above problems has led to the introduction of more efficient material handling tools in the market, such as the SuperDeck® retractable loading platform system.   

Not only able to be stacked vertically, but also rolled in and out as needed, the SuperDeck® offers a convenient drawer-like system proven to quicken the material handling process. Requiring only one operator, it also frees up the rest of your team so they can perform other high value tasks. Taking as little as 15 minutes, our two-prop installation method saves critical time on site, helping to boost productivity.  

If enhancing your operational efficiency is a priority, speak to the team at Preston Hire to learn more about how the SuperDeck® can provide the solution for your upcoming project. Call 1800 440 550 or visit our website.  

The post Enhance Your Operational Efficiency With the Right Construction Tool appeared first on Preston Hire.

At Preston Hire, we’re proud of the flexibility our specialised heavy equipment fleet offers and the variety of industries we service. Our mini cranes, for instance, are compact powerhouses capable of carrying out a wide range of applications. Their versatility, precision, and significant load capacities have long made them the perfect choice for utility installation and maintenance projects. With their ability to perform heavy lifts in limited working areas, Preston Hire’s mini cranes make short work of tasks like maintenance on power lines or telecom towers. 

 Allow us to share how mini cranes benefit the electrical and telecommunications industries.  

Electrical industry 

Increased efficiency, better access, and improved safety are among the benefits gained when hiring a compact crane for power line or power station work. While power line maintenance is critical to ensure the uninterrupted supply of electricity, it can be a dangerous and difficult endeavour to position staff and materials close enough for work to be undertaken. Our small cranes have been designed with safety first in mind and come equipped with a range of features to help safeguard workers. Overload protection, anti-tipping mechanisms, and automatic shutdown systems are among the exemplary safety technologies built into our machines.  

 Likewise, the safety features of our fleet can help reduce the risk of accidents on power station and substations installation or repair projects. At these sites, where power lines can be all over the place, the computerized working range restriction feature of our mini cranes prevents booms from connecting with power lines. Coupled with their exceptional precision and manoeuvrability, the risk of accidents is greatly reduced on site. And with loading capacities up to an impressive 8090kg, you can be sure that Preston Hire has a mini crane perfectly suited to your needs.  

Telecommunications industry 

From television broadcasting to Wi-Fi and 5G, telecom infrastructure like cellular towers and antennas are essential in our modern world. However, communication towers are often built in enclosures with limited space, presenting a challenge to installation and maintenance works. Our highly manoeuvrable and compact mini cranes can easily navigate narrow cellular site locations when new equipment installation or maintenance works need to be undertaken. Our small cranes are perfectly suited to setting tower sections, control buildings, and antenna equipment. We recognise that telecom providers often need a crane at multiple sites within a short period of time. You can count on us to provide tailor-made solutions for all your material handling and lifting requirements for the telecommunications industry.  

Looking for mini crane hire? 

At Preston Hire, we can help lift your projects to new heights. Our compact and extremely versatile mini cranes grant better access for lifting in hard-to-reach areas, such as power station and telecom tower sites. To learn more about our impressive SuperCrane fleet, give us a call on 1800 440 550 or you can contact us through our website.  

The post How Mini Cranes Assist with Utility Installation and Maintenance Projects appeared first on Preston Hire.

From milling machines to industrial mixers, the manufacturing sector relies on a range of equipment to aid the production process. However, the significant weight of this industrial machinery, coupled with often limited floor space, can pose issues when it comes to equipment installation. Enter the crane! Designed to hoist and transport heavy materials with precision and efficiency, cranes help make short work of setting up new manufacturing machinery.  

Allow us to share six benefits of hiring a crane when installing manufacturing equipment. 

1.Power and reach 

Industrial equipment is often exceptionally heavy and difficult to maneuver. However, with lifting capacities of up to 100,000 kg, no manufacturing machine is too heavy for Preston Hire’s fleet of cranes. While compact in size, our range of mini and hydraulic crawler cranes also have significant pick and carry capacities. This makes our crane range perfectly suited to lifting machinery from a truck and then carrying it inside the building for installation. In addition to being able to hoist materials to significant heights, our range of lifting equipment has small footprints and impressive working ranges, making them capable of accessing difficult-to-reach areas.  

2. Precision 

Precision is of the utmost importance when installing new equipment as there is the risk of causing damage to the machine, personnel, or to the site. Our cranes facilitate the safe and precise transportation and optimum positioning of new machinery so it can be connected to the required systems. At Preston Hire, each lift is carefully considered to enhance safety and efficiency.  

3. Productivity 

Cranes replace the labor-intensive and time-consuming task of staff off-loading machinery and moving it to the designated area. With your hired crane, this precious time can instead be spent completing other necessary tasks, enhancing productivity. 

4. Expert guidance  

A crane hire service like Preston Hire is staffed with specialists who can find the best crane to suit your project needs. As experts in their field, Preston Hire can direct you to the most suitable crane for your needs and outline the safety requirements of operation.  

5. Increased safety 

The risk of workplace injury is increased when staff are required to lift heavy loads. There’s also the risk of manufacturing machinery being dropped, causing damage to other equipment or the site. Hiring an operated crane greatly reduces the chance of accidents and safeguards everyone involved.  

6. Cost savings 

As our fleet of cranes can execute your heavy lifting needs quickly and safely, we can have your new machine up and running in a fraction of the time it would take for staff to pick and carry it into the facility. This minimizes the amount of downtime experienced, reducing the costs of disruption to production lines. As cranes carry out all the lifting and positioning operations, the risk of costly workplace accidents is minimized too.    

The knowledgeable team at Preston Hire takes pride in offering solutions to challenging jobs like installing manufacturing machinery. You can be guaranteed that we have a mini crane or hydraulic crawler crane to meet your every need. To find out more about our SuperCrane fleet, please give us a call on 1800 440 550, or visit our website: https://www.prestonhire.com.au/ 

The post Unveiling the Benefits of Crane-Assisted Machinery Installation in Manufacturing appeared first on Preston Hire.

In the ever-evolving realms of construction and heavy lifting, the utilisation of mini crane hire has emerged as a transformative force, offering a versatile remedy for lifting tasks across a spectrum of industries. These compact yet robust cranes are purpose-built to navigate confined spaces while delivering powerful and efficient lifting capabilities. This article delves into the top five benefits of mini crane hire, with a particular focus on its indispensable role within the construction sector. 

5 Benefits of Preston Hire’s Mini Crane Range: 

1. Material Handling Excellence: 

At the core of construction endeavours is the imperative need for effective material handling. Preston Hire’s mini cranes are meticulously engineered to address this requirement with unparalleled precision and power. These compact powerhouses effortlessly transport hefty materials, such as bricks and steel beams, to various levels of a construction site. Our fleet of mini cranes contribute to heightened productivity and reduced downtime on sites by streamlining the material transportation process.  

      2. Navigating Confined Spaces: 

The hallmark feature of mini cranes is their exceptional ability to navigate through tight spaces on construction sites, guaranteeing the precise delivery of materials where they are needed most. This is particularly important in the realm of urban construction, where available space is a premium. The manoeuvrability of mini cranes positions them as indispensable assets for projects where space constraints or traditional crane limitations are a concern. 

     3. Unparalleled Placement Precision: 

The precision controls and compact design of Preston Hire’s mini cranes make them an ideal choice for intricate tasks, such as installing glass panels in diverse structures. Whether working on a towering skyscraper or a boutique storefront, these mini cranes provide the finesse required for accurate and safe glass panel placement. This precision is especially valuable in construction projects where attention to detail is paramount. 

  4. Cost-Efficiency: 

Mini crane hire from Preston Hire is a cost-effective solution for projects that do not require the higher load capacities of larger cranes. Their efficiency in handling heavy lifting in confined spaces contributes significantly to overall project cost savings. Further, hiring a crane is an extremely cost-effective option as you only pay for the duration of time that you need to use it and are not out of pocket for the many additional fees that come with owning a crane.  

    5. Versatility: 

From robust material handling to delicate glass installations, Preston Hire’s fleet of mini cranes showcase exceptional versatility. Their adaptability across various lifting tasks positions them as invaluable assets on diverse construction sites. 

Preston Hire’s mini crane range have redefined lifting capabilities within the construction industry. From efficiently transporting heavy materials to delicately installing glass panels, these compact yet powerful cranes exhibit remarkable versatility across a spectrum of construction scenarios. As industries increasingly recognise the advantages of Preston Hire’s mini crane services, these machines are poised to play an even more pivotal role in the continually evolving landscape of construction. 

Our team of crane experts can help you choose the best mini crane for your project each and every time. To learn more about our mini crane fleet, speak to one of our friendly staff on 1800 440 550 or send us an enquiry.   

The post 5 Reasons Why Mini Crane Hire is Indispensable to the Construction Industry appeared first on Preston Hire.

Lifting operations play a critical role in numerous industries, from manufacturing and construction to shipping and logistics. Designed to hoist and move heavy materials with precision and efficiency, a crane is the go-to machine for all heavy lifting needs on a jobsite. Preston Hire’s range of mini cranes are perfect for confined space operations and have impressive power, making them small but mighty when it comes to performance.      

While cranes make short work of lifting and transporting materials onsite, like all heavy equipment, they can pose a safety threat when not used properly. There are several factors that need to be taken into account when it comes to executing safe, efficient lifting:  

• What are the worksite conditions like? 

The stability of a crane often depends on the integrity of the ground on which it stands. As such, it’s important to consider the ground conditions of the lifting area, such as the terrain type and its load bearing capacity to mitigate the risk of your mini crane encountering instabilities. Likewise, inspect the construction site for any potential obstacles that could hinder lifting or pose risks, such as nearby trees and powerlines. 

• What are the crane’s lifting requirements?  

All cranes have different load capacities. If you force a machine to exceed its safe lifting limits, it can damage the crane and lead to a dropped load, putting workers at risk of serious injury or even death. The required load’s weight, in addition to the configuration and trajectory of the lift, are determining factors when deciding which mini crane is most suitable for the task.  

On the other hand, the dimensions of the lifting operations will impact factors such as the rigging choices and the potential for wind resistance. Consulting the load chart will help ensure accurate measurements as being a kilogram or an inch off can dramatically alter the dynamics of a lift.  

The experienced team at Preston Hire can evaluate all your requirements and recommend the perfect mini crane for your project.   

• Are safe operating procedures being followed? 

Safety is the foundation for all successful operations on a worksite. Are all personnel following work safety procedures, such as the wearing of personal protective equipment? Are weather conditions being monitored? Is the crane operator following the manufacturer’s instructions? Is there a system of clear communication set up between the crane operator and the other workers on site? Strict adherence to all safety protocols not only safeguards the
wellbeing of all workers but also contributes to efficient lifting.  

• Is the load secured? 

Before beginning each lift, double check that the load is properly secured. This includes checking that the stabilisers, outriggers, and other safety devices are all properly positioned. These components are critical when lifting and moving heavy loads.  

Final thoughts 

Mini cranes are the perfect solution for jobsites where lifting is needed but space limitations rule out the use of larger units. Using a suitable unit and planning the lift are both critical to achieving efficient and safe lifting operations with your hired mini crane. 

Speaking to crane experts, like the team at Preston Hire, can help you choose the best mini crane for your project each and every time. To learn more about our mini crane fleet, speak to one of our friendly staff on 1800 440 550 or send us an enquiry. 

The post Applications For Your Mini Crane Hire: A Guide to Efficient Lifting appeared first on Preston Hire.

With October being National Safe Work Month, we thought it was timely to provide an overview of the safety processes involved in preparing a SuperDeck® for hire.  

How does Preston Hire prepare a SuperDeck® for hire? 

    1. Mandatory checklist inspection. 

The beginning of the pre-hire process is a detailed inspection of the SuperDeck®. A pre-hire checklist is followed for quality assurance. All parts of the SuperDeck® are checked to ensure they work correctly, from the doors and side panels right down to identifying if the bolts and nuts show any signs of wear or corrosion. Another part of the process involves sweeping the inside and outside of the platform, including the rails. Any built up construction material, such as concrete dust, dirt, or general rubble, is therefore removed.a

 a. If any damage is identified: Maintenance is performed.  

  b. If no damage is detected/once maintenance has been performed: Preston Hire then splits the SuperDeck®, removing the inner platform from the outer frame. This enables the inside of the rails to be cleaned and for any other foreign objects from the wheel areas to be removed. The wheels are checked to ensure they spin freely and are then lubricated. Then the platform is put back together.  

     2. Any required tests are performed.  

Safety tests, such as Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), for all lifting points are undertaken every 12 months. 

     3. Final check/washing down. 

A final check is performed on the SuperDeck®, including ensuring all bolts have been tightened and all locking handles are working correctly. Then the SuperDeck® is pressure washed to make sure it is thoroughly cleaned and free of any finer debris and left to dry.  

     4. The SuperDeck is tailored to your requirements. 

Our SuperDeck® Business Development Managers and Project Managers ensure that each site’s specific requirements are placed on file and passed on to our yard teams. This enables us to prepare your SuperDeck® to your specifications, including repainting the deck (it can be your corporate logo), setting up the right prop heights, bolt downs, short legs, or even extended side panels, increased capacity, or fully bespoke options can be created to suit your needs. 

     5. The SuperDeck® is ready for dispatch. 

Once this process has been completed, the deck is ready for hire and delivered to your jobsite! 

Preston Hire has SuperDecks available in a range of different sizes, in addition to a myriad of custom decks. We can also work closely with you should you have a special requirement. If you have any questions about our SuperDecks, or the other specialised equipment we have for hire, speak to one of friendly staff on 1800 440 550 or visit our product page: https://www.prestonhire.com.au/products/superdeck/ 

The post How Does Preston Hire Prepare a SuperDeck® for Hire?  appeared first on Preston Hire.

Preston Hire’s SuperDeck loading platforms have been in high demand recently, playing an important role on a number of major projects along the east coast.

With three main sizes available in the SuperDeck range, and multiple options available in between, Preston Hire continues to demonstrate their ability to provide solutions for even the most challenging of projects, delivering safe, easy to use, and highly efficient materials handling results. Recently appointed general manager of Preston Hire, Mike Thomas, explained the versatility of the company’s SuperDeck fleet and what they can bring to a work site.

“The SuperDecks’ main use is the loading of materials, equipment, and supplies to and from the various levels of a building under construction,” he said. 

“They can solve a number of challenges on site thanks to their proven design that has been put to the test for decades and always delivers.”

Thomas went on to provide details of a number of projects that have relied heavily on Preston Hire SuperDecks. Each project has different requirements and unique circumstances that have easily been overcome by the SuperDeck system demonstrating the varying size, scope, and uses of each platform.

Learn more about loading platform hire and how SuperDeck improves site efficiency

One Sydney Harbour

The One Sydney Harbour project features three residential towers with 68 levels and 322 apartments that include full floor or part floor homes. The second of the three towers will reach 230 metres and will look over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and back west across the Darling Harbour.

“Approximately 50 x 4.2 SuperDecks are being used on the One Sydney Harbour project managed by Lendlease. It is a major project and one we are proud to be involved with. The 4.2m-wide platform was selected for this site as they provide ample room to work with and around a load,” Thomas said. 

“A project of this scale requires large quantities of materials, including the delivery of pallets of masonry or Gyprock to each floor. Our 4.2s thrive when bulky materials need to be lifted. The 4.2s have also been put to good use for façade panels and structural steel segments thanks to the size of the platform.

“Working with Lendlease, we understand that safety is paramount, especially when workers are 50 floors in the air. As with all Lendlease projects, lockable swing gates have been fitted by the Preston Hire team on the inside end of each platform, preventing people walking out onto the platform, and providing an additional layer of safety,” Thomas said. 

“We will always go the extra mile for specific customer requests, especially when safety is concerned. We place a huge focus on all safety elements of our SuperDecks. Components like locking pins, the rear jacks, the H-frame, end stop plates, lifting lugs, and the gates are all regularly inspected and tested,” he said. 

“Our maintenance teams always check the full functionality of all components and overall appearance of the platform before any SuperDeck is supplied to our customers. It is in our DNA to only deliver top quality to our customers” Thomas said.

17 Spring Street, Melbourne

Hacer is building 72 luxury apartments over 32 levels in Melbourne’s CBD, with four basement levels for car parks. Preston Hire has supplied eight 3.2m SuperDecks as they are the most practical size for this building structure.

Preston Hire supplied eight 3.2 metre SuperDecks. The form worker utilised a conventional formwork system and no tables were used making the 3.2 SuperDeck a perfect fit for the project.

“The form worker utilised a conventional formwork system and no tables were used. This approach made the 3.2 SuperDeck a perfect fit for the project. Stacked in a vertical row, each of the SuperDeck platforms moves in and out to receive their load, delivering reduced crane movements, and saving time and money,” Thomas explains.

“We always meet with our clients prior to a job, where one of our skilled team members will discuss the project and all of the intricate needs of the build. Our team will then be able to provide suitable solutions, recommend appropriate deck sizes and provide general suggestions on ways that the client could save in the long run. This could be through suggesting smaller propping requirements, flexible installation arrangements, or providing more efficient equipment.

“Many customers are pleasantly surprised at how cost effective a Preston Hire SuperDeck solution can be when our team has the opportunity to review the project in full,” Thomas said.

Jewel, Sunshine Coast

Jewel is a new eight-storey residential project on the Sunshine Coast that Preston Hire recently commenced work on. The company delivered 28 x 2.2 SuperDecks to the site and these were installed across the seven levels of the project. 

Four platforms per level have been used due to the unique layout and design of each floor. The 2.2m SuperDeck was chosen as no modification to the scaffolding was required and installation would be simple,” said Thomas.

“By utilising the SuperDecks for this site, we were able to save time, investment, and energy for the builder. Due to the nature of the glazing on the site, our 2.2s were the ideal size with no larger requirements needed and all materials, including formwork, cabinetry, plaster board, and rubbish handling for the project can be safely handled by the 2.2 SuperDeck,” he said.

SuperDeck platforms are available in multiple sizes including 2.2, 3.2 and 4.2 configurations to suit different project requirements.

Beyond these major projects, Preston Hire is also working closely with builders across the country on unique, boutique, and regionally-located builds that can also benefit from the advantages delivered by the SuperDeck.

Looking for a loading platform solution for your next project? Speak with Preston Hire to find the right SuperDeck for your site.

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