Wet hire operators supply equipment with a licensed operator included. Wet hire rates are significantly higher than dry hire. Here's how BuildHire compares for government & councils contractors in Sydney.
| Feature | Wet Hire Operators | BuildHire ✓ |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Machine + operator day rate ($600–$1,200/day) | Machine only from $200/day |
| Flexibility | Operator controls pace and method | You control the machine, your way |
| Suitability | Unlicensed customers | Licensed contractors |
BuildHire offers dry hire only — meaning you pay for the machine, not an operator's day rate on top. Dry hire with BuildHire is typically 40–60% cheaper than wet hire for the same machine.
Local councils and government contractors across NSW use BuildHire's equipment for infrastructure maintenance, drainage works, park construction, and road maintenance. Our fleet is available on daily, weekly, and monthly terms with transparent pricing.
$205/day
Our most popular mini excavator. Ideal for plumbing trenches, landscaping, and general earthmoving with true zero tail swing.
$325/day
Mid-size excavator delivering serious power for larger residential projects, pool excavations, and commercial site prep.
$345/day
Heavy-duty 5.5-tonne excavator built for serious earthmoving, deep trenching, and civil construction projects.
Yes — significantly. Wet hire rates for an excavator with operator typically range from $600–$1,200/day. BuildHire's dry hire rates start from $200/day for the same machine.
For excavators under 3 tonnes, no licence is required in NSW. For machines 3 tonnes and above, a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) for earthmoving plant is required.
Yes. BuildHire supplies equipment to local councils and government contractors across NSW. We can provide invoices, insurance certificates, and compliance documentation as required.
Yes. BuildHire delivers to Sydney and the wider Sydney Metro region. Book before 12pm for next-day delivery to Sydney government & councils sites.