How to Register With Plant Hire Companies as a Contractor in Australia

If you’re an earthmoving contractor looking for consistent work, one of the smartest moves you can make is registering with plant hire companies.

Across Australia, plant hire agencies and contractors regularly look for reliable operators and machines to fill gaps on projects. Getting on their books can mean steady work, better rates, and less time chasing jobs.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to register with plant hire companies, what they look for, and how to increase your chances of getting regular work.

What Do Plant Hire Companies Actually Do?

Plant hire companies (and plant hire agencies) act as the middleman between contractors and jobs.

They:

• Supply machines (wet or dry hire)
• Source operators for projects
• Fill urgent job requirements
• Manage client relationships

For contractors, this means:
You don’t always have to chase work yourself

Why Register With Plant Hire Companies?

Getting registered can:

• Provide consistent job opportunities
• Reduce downtime between jobs
• Open doors to larger civil projects
• Help build long-term industry relationships

Many contractors in Australia rely on a mix of:

• Direct clients
• Builder relationships
• Plant hire companies

Step-by-Step: How to Register With Plant Hire Companies

1. Prepare Your Business Information

Before reaching out, make sure you have:

• Business name and ABN
• Insurances (public liability, workers comp if required)
• Machine details (size, type, attachments)
• Experience and past projects
• Relevant tickets and licences

First impressions matter—be organised.

2. Know What Work You’re Offering

Be clear on:

• Machine size (e.g. 5T, 14T, 20T excavator)
• Wet hire (with operator) or dry hire
• Types of work (civil, residential, detailed excavation, etc.)
• Availability

The more specific you are, the easier it is for them to place you.

3. Contact Plant Hire Companies Directly

You can:

• Call them
• Email them
• Submit forms through their websites. Most have a portal nowadays.

4. Follow Up (Most People Don’t Do This)

This is where you stand out.

• Follow up after a few days
• Stay top of mind – call them daily
• Let them know your availability

Simple follow-ups = more work opportunities

5. Be Ready When the Phone Rings

Plant hire work often comes in fast.

If you’re:

• Reliable
• Easy to deal with
• Available when needed

You’ll get repeat calls and text messages.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Work

Most contractors register…

…but only a few actually get called.

Here’s why:

✅ Be reliable

Turn up on time, do what you say

✅ Keep your machine presentable

Clean gear = better perception

✅ Communicate clearly

No surprises = more trust

✅ Stay in touch

Don’t disappear after one job

Where to Find Plant Hire Companies in Australia

Instead of searching randomly or relying on word of mouth, you can:

Browse plant hire companies listed on Earthworks Hub
Find contractors, agencies, and businesses actively operating in the industry

Explore the Plant Hire page
View machines available for work and connect with contractors directly

This gives you:

• Faster access to opportunities
• More visibility
• A central place to connect with the industry

Should You List Your Own Business Too? (Yes.)

Don’t just rely on others.

List your business on Earthworks Hub so companies can find YOU

When you create a listing:

• Plant hire companies can contact you
• Contractors can reach out directly
• You increase your exposure across the industry