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5.5T Excavator Hire Sydney

The workhorse for cut and fill, deeper footings, drainage trenching, and medium commercial earthworks. From $370/day inc GST. Delivery via third party transport — pricing on enquiry.

Specifications

Operating Weight5,500 kg
Max Dig Depth3,800 mm
Bucket Capacity0.21 m³
Engine Power36.8 kW
Max Reach6,500 mm
DeliveryThird party transport — pricing on enquiry
Daily Rate$370/day incl GST
Weekly Rate$1,650/week incl GST
Auger (200mm, 300mm, 450mm)$160/day
Hydraulic Hammer$190/day
Hydraulic Rock Grab$150/day
Sieve Bucket (Tiger Buckets)$50/day

What It's Used For

Cut & Fill Earthworks

The 5.5T is the standard choice for residential cut-and-fill sites — stripping, benching, and moving bulk material on sloped blocks.

Deeper Footings Excavation

For footings deeper than 900mm or wider than 600mm, the 5.5T provides the power and reach that a 3.5T lacks.

Drainage Trenching

Trench for stormwater, sewer, and drainage systems to 3,800mm depth — deeper than the 3.5T's 3,400mm limit.

Retaining Wall Excavation

Excavate for retaining walls on residential and commercial sites. The 5.5T handles the heavier material associated with retaining structures.

Pool Excavation

Excavate standard residential pools (8m × 4m) efficiently. The 5.5T is the most common machine for pool excavation in Sydney.

Commercial Site Prep

Site preparation for commercial projects where the 3.5T lacks power — stripping, levelling, and bulk material movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a 5.5T excavator in Sydney?

BuildHire's 5.5T excavator starts from $370/day (incl GST). Weekly rate is $1,650/week (incl GST). Delivery is via third party transport — pricing on enquiry. Auger $180/day (200mm, 300mm, 450mm), Hydraulic Hammer $190/day, Rock Grab $150/day, Sieve Bucket $50/day.

What is the difference between a 3.5T and 5.5T excavator?

The 5.5T has greater digging depth (3,800mm vs 3,400mm), more bucket capacity (0.21m³ vs 0.17m³), and more engine power (36.8kW vs 24.4kW). It is the better choice for cut-and-fill, deeper footings, pool excavation, and medium commercial earthworks where the 3.5T lacks power or reach.

Do I need a licence to operate a 5.5T excavator in NSW?

No licence is required to operate an excavator under 10 tonnes on private property in NSW. On a registered worksite, a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) is required.

How is a 5.5T excavator delivered in Sydney?

The 5.5T is delivered via third party transport. Pricing is on enquiry — call 1300 157 882 for a delivery quote.

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