Dump & Tipper Truck hire rates in Australia: A comprehensive guide

Much like the excavator, dump trucks and tipper trucks are common pieces of machinery on civil construction and mining sites. 

One might ask: “Is there a difference between a dump truck and a tipper truck?” 

In Australia, there are slight differences between the two. In other countries like the UK, the term dump truck and tipper truck could be used interchangeably. 

Another difference between a dump truck and a tipper truck is the hire rate. 

Based on research and insights from experts within the Felix team, we found that there are several factors that will affect the hire rates of dump trucks and tipper trucks. 

Factors that affect dump truck and tipper truck hire rates 

• Type and size 
• Wet hire or dry hire 
• Availability and location 
• Transportation cost 
• Maintenance, repair and machine hours 

When it comes to hauling and transporting heavy loads – whether in mining or civil construction – dump trucks and tipper trucks are on top of the list of options to use. 

Although the two have similar functions, they have some features that differentiate them from one another.

Before we dive into the different types and sizes of dump and tipper trucks, let us look at the differences between the two. 

Dump trucks are usually bigger and are more heavy duty. It can be used on different terrains and off-road conditions due to it having a higher ground clearance and shorter wheelbase – typically the big yellow ones you see on mining sites. It has a hydraulic bed that is raised to dump loads, making unloading loose materials quick and efficient. 

Dump trucks are the ideal equipment for hauling bulk materials such as dirt, gravel, rock and sand. 

On the other hand, tipper trucks are the choice of machinery for transporting bulk goods such as construction materials, aggregates, and waste materials. In addition to tipper trucks being more fuel-efficient, this machinery also has a lower ground clearance and longer wheelbase that provides better stability and weight distribution, making it ideal for long distance hauling. 

Tipper trucks are also lighter, which means they can be used on paved roads. Tippers, just like dump trucks, have a hydraulic system that tilts the entire cargo bed that makes unloading bulk goods quicker and more efficient. 

Type and size 

Now that we have briefly explained the differences between a dump truck and tipper truck, let us look into the different types of dump trucks and tipper trucks listed for hire on Felix Vendor Marketplace. 

• Articulated dump truck – this is a common type of dump truck utilised in off-road construction and mining sites. It is made up of two parts, the front tractor and the back hauler or trailer. These two parts are connected by hydraulic cylinders or an articulation joint that has a pivot point that enables the two parts to move independently, making navigation easier. If the truck needs to turn, the cab or front tractor will turn first and as the truck continues to move the trailer will begin to turn as well. 
• Rigid dump truck – this type of dump truck is also designed to move large quantities of material across rocky terrain, just like the articulated dump truck. Rather than being connected by an articulated joint, the cab or front section and the trailer of a rigid dump truck sits on a single chassis or supporting frame. The rigid dump truck has a traditional steering design that has a single front axle and a rear axle – a combination that makes this truck sturdier when handling heavy loads. 
• Tracked dump truck – in place of tyres or wheels, this type of dump truck sits on rubber tracks, providing it with better traction and control on difficult terrain such as steep inclines or muddy and wet ground. The tracks also help distribute weight evenly, adding to its stability while moving around. Tracked dump trucks are also smaller in size – compared to the conventional dump truck – making it easier to maneouvre around in tight spaces. 
• Single body/bogie tipper truck – also known as a rigid tipper truck. It is similar to the rigid dump truck wherein the cab and trailer sit on a single chassis or body. This standard tipper truck can have between two to five axles, depending on its capacity. 
• Mini / front tipper dump truck – also known as dumper in other countries, the front tipper dump truck is a smaller type of equipment used to haul bulk materials. Rather than having a hydraulic trailer, this four-wheel dump truck features a skip in front of the driver that tilts to dump its load. This equipment is ideal for smaller projects that require bulk handling of materials such as in landscaping or in sites that have narrow spaces. 
• Side tipper truck – this is a variation of a tipper truck that tilts its trailer bed to the side instead of backwards. 

Wet hire or dry hire 

Another factor that will affect the hire rates of a dump truck or tipper truck is whether you need an operator (wet hire) or not (dry hire). 

Similar to other types of construction or mining equipment, operating a dump truck or tipper truck requires training. 

According to SEEK, operating a dump truck will require the driver to have an appropriate driver’s licence. Other requirements for operating a dump truck include obtaining a police clearance check, gaining a Heavy Rigid (HR) vehicle licence from your local roads and traffic authority, passing a pre-employment medical, and gaining a White Card through TAFE or Registered Training Organisation for those who are interested in working in the construction sector. 

On the other hand, special driving licenses are essential to operating a tipper truck. It is also beneficial if the driver has substantial experience driving a truck as well as having some mechanical skills. Requirements for driving a tipper truck include gaining a Heavy Rigid or Heavy Combination (HC) licence through a short course from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), obtaining a White Card or construction induction card so you can enter a construction site, and completing regular drug and alcohol screenings could also be required. 

SEEK suggests looking for work with logistics, transport or construction companies to help build appropriate skills needed for operating a tipper truck. 

Some companies could also provide on-the-job training for both dump truck and tipper truck drivers. 

Factoring in the cost of training and obtaining a licence, hiring a dump truck or tipper truck with an operator might be more expensive than hiring without one. If you already have an operator or someone in your employment who has the appropriate requirements to operate this machinery, then dry hiring would be a good option. 

Articulated dump truck (source: Pixabay)

Availability and location 

Hire rates for dump trucks and tippers trucks vary depending on the location as well as the supply and demand for it. 

Just like any goods, services and commodities, dump truck and tipper truck hire rates are also affected by the law of supply and demand. To refresh your memory, the law of supply and demand explains the economic principle that when the supply of something is higher than the demand for it, prices will fall. Likewise, if the demand exceeds the supply, prices increase. 

The number of dump trucks or tipper trucks for hire will depend on the number of competitive hire companies or suppliers in your area, region or state. 

Prices may also vary depending on the state or territory you are in. This means that hire rates for a 30-tonne dump truck in Queensland might be more expensive than the hire rates for the same truck in the Northern Territory or vice versa. 

Let us take a look at the table below, comparing prices for the different sizes of an articulated dump truck in each state/territory. 

On the road (source: Pixabay)

Hire duration 

Will you be hiring the dump truck or tipper truck for a day, a week, or maybe a month? 

When requesting a quote, the supplier will provide you with either hourly, daily, weekly or monthly rates so make sure to specify how long you will be needing the dump truck or tipper truck. 

In some cases, hire companies can give you lower rates if you will be hiring equipment from them for a long period. 

Additional charges could also incur if you go over the time specified in your agreement with the supplier. Also check your calendar if your hire duration will include a public holiday or event as these days might have a different rate than regular days.

Maintenance, repair and machine hours 

Hire rates are also affected by maintenance and repair costs as well as the machine hours. 

Heavy equipment requires routine and frequent maintenance works to keep them in good working condition. In turn, having a well-maintained machine will help reduce the risk of it breaking down or having an accident on-site due to faulty equipment. 

Dump trucks have a more complex hydraulic system compared to tipper trucks, and this requires the dump truck to have regular maintenance on its hydraulic system. Maintenance on the hydraulic system could include replacing hydraulic fluids as well as hoses and filters. 

As for machine hours, frequently used equipment will depreciate in value over time. This means that newer dump trucks could have a higher upfront cost than older models. 

Some suppliers and hire companies have their own maintenance schedules for their equipment, this could already be factored in when you request a quote from them so make sure that you ask. 

Also ask the supplier if they have their own maintenance and repair team that you can contact in case of a break down or if the equipment is due for maintenance. 

Transportation cost 

Depending on the size of the equipment you are hiring, transporting heavy machinery to and from the project site will incur additional costs, especially for dump trucks. 

Tipper trucks are road registered equipment and can be used on paved roads and in some cases, you might not need to hire another truck that can mobilise and demobilise them - but you might still need to pay a fee for it to be delivered to or removed from the project site, so ask your supplier about any charges for transporting a tipper truck to the project site. 

The dump truck, on the other hand, will need a separate truck that can transport them to and from the project site as this equipment – especially the larger ones – is built for off-road environments and, due to its overall design, is not meant for long travels on paved roads. 

However, some hire companies are willing to waive transportation fees for long-term hire agreements. It is best to ask and negotiate with your chosen supplier regarding this. 

Tips and tricks to get relevant hire rates 

Providing complete information 

To get the most relevant rates from hire companies or suppliers, make sure that you are providing detailed information about your project and your requirements when submitting a request for quotes. 

Information could include project location, hire duration and project timeline. 

By providing detailed and specific information, suppliers will be able to gauge any fluctuations in rates based on your location as well as allow them to check for any access restrictions or difficulties surrounding the project site. 

Also let the supplier know what other requirements you need for the dump truck or tipper truck hire – whether you need transportation for the equipment to and from the project site, an operator or maintenance services. 

Tracked dump truck (source: Pixabay)

Be specific with your project schedule or timeline 

Make sure to include your project timeline when submitting a request for a quote to your supplier. The timeline could include the project start and end dates, and down times when the dump truck or tipper truck will not be needed. 

Unforeseen events that could lead to delays are inevitable. If this occurs, make sure to inform your supplier as they also try to stick to a schedule. 

Some suppliers or hire companies require a minimum number of hours or days when hiring equipment, so make sure to clarify this with them if you need the dump truck or tipper truck for a very short period of time. 

As for long-term hire agreements, some hire companies are willing to give discounts depending on their financial capabilities. Remember the law of supply and demand here as this will come into play when you are trying to negotiate with the supplier. 

Also keep in mind that additional charges or fees might be added if you hire the machinery on a public holiday or if you go over the specified hours in your initial agreement with the supplier. 

Ask for a rates breakdown 

When requesting a quote, ask for a detailed breakdown of the rates as this will help prevent any misunderstandings or surprises such as additional fees or charges once the final invoice is sent to you. 

Providing a detailed breakdown of the hire rates is also a sign that your supplier is transparent with its clients, increasing their credibility and trustworthiness. 

Disclaimer: The hire rates data found in this post is a snapshot of the market and does not guarantee the same rates at present. For the most up to date dump truck or tipper truck hire rates, it is best to submit a quote request. 

Being able to acquire the most accurate and relevant hire rates from suppliers will make the procurement process for any project a breeze and the Felix Vendor Marketplace can help. 

Felix Vendor Marketplace lists thousands of equipment suppliers and subcontractors across Australia. The platform will not only allow you to request for quotes from equipment suppliers or subcontractors near you, but also allow you to compare quotes from several vendors, giving you the choice of which equipment or service to hire depending on your specifications and budget. 

Our team aims to provide our readers and clients with industry knowledge that will be able to help them get relevant quotes for plant and equipment hire for subcontractor services. If you find this article helpful, please do subscribe to our blog for the latest project news and industry insights.