When you are taking on a building or landscaping project, one of the biggest challenges is moving soil, gravel or debris from one place to another. Doing all this work with a shovel can take days and leave you exhausted. This is where a micro digger comes in.
A micro digger is a small but powerful machine to be used in small areas to do digging. They are ideal when doing things, such as landscaping a garden, carrying out some light construction work or even laying drainage.
Hiring a micro digger is often the most cost-effective and time-saving option. Rather than purchasing one, which can be very costly, you can rent it as long as you require.
In this guide, you will learn all that you need to know about micro digger hire, including why you should hire one, along with tips and tricks to make the most of your hire.
What Is a Micro Digger?
A micro digger, also known as a mini excavator, is a compact machine designed for digging and moving soil. Whereas larger excavators cannot, micro diggers could fit into pathways and narrow places and small building sites with limited space. These machines are more powerful and smaller in size. They may do such jobs as:
- Trench digging of pipes and cables
- Removing tree stumps and roots
- Preparing ground for patios or driveways
- Landscaping gardens
- Excavating for small foundations
Micro diggers are less than a ton in weight and may be capable of navigating through gaps as narrow as a door or garden gate. It renders them quite convenient to both homeowners and contractors as well as builders.
Why Hire a Micro Digger?
Buying a digger can cost thousands of pounds, which is not practical for most people who only need it for a short time. Hiring gives you the freedom to use professional equipment without the heavy cost. Some of the main reasons to hire a micro digger include:
- Cost savings – Pay only for the days or weeks you use it.
- Flexibility – Choose different sizes or attachments based on your project.
- Convenience – Many hire companies offer delivery and collection.
- Professional results – Get the job done faster and more efficiently than manual labour.
For DIY projects, hiring also helps you achieve a professional finish without relying on expensive contractors for every small task.
Choosing the Right Micro Digger
Not all micro diggers are the same. Before hiring one, consider the following factors:
- Size of the project – For small garden work, a lightweight digger is enough. For larger jobs like foundation digging, you may need a slightly bigger model.
- Access to the site – Measure gates, doorways or narrow pathways to make sure the digger can get through.
- Depth of digging – Check how deep the digger can dig. Most micro diggers dig between 1.5 and 2 meters.
- Attachments – Some projects may need extra tools, like a breaker for concrete or a narrow bucket for trenching.
Asking your hire company for advice can also help you pick the right machine for your needs.
Tips for Hiring a Micro Digger
Hiring a micro digger is simple, but there are a few tricks to ensure you get the most value for your money.
1. Book Early
Micro diggers are in high demand, especially during spring and summer when many people work on gardens and outdoor spaces. Booking early means you will not be left waiting when your project is ready to begin.
2. Check the Hire Terms
Always review the hire agreement. Look at things like:
- Minimum hire period
- Delivery and collection costs
- Fuel charges
- Insurance cover
This helps you avoid hidden costs and plan your budget properly.
3. Learn How to Operate It
The majority of the micro diggers are simple to operate, although it is wise to request the hire company to give a brief demonstration of the tool. Manuals or videos may also be given by many companies. Spending a few minutes learning the controls before starting will save hours of headaches.
4. Inspect Before Use
By the time of delivery of the digger, examine to see whether it is damaged or faulty. Report the company immediately on anything you observe. This keeps you safe from paying to repair something that you have not damaged.
5. Plan Your Work Area
It is important to have the ground free of sand and logs. Cut a mark on where you want to dig in order to work effectively without consuming time and fuel.
Read Also: Top Reasons to Choose Post Hole Digger Hire for Your Next Project
How to Get the Best Results with a Micro Digger
Getting the most out of a micro digger isn’t just about operating the machine; it’s about using it smartly. With a few clever tricks, you can boost efficiency, work faster in tight spaces and achieve a cleaner finish on your project.
Use the Right Bucket Size
Micro diggers have various options on the buckets. A large bucket will be very effective in cleaning up soil at a fast rate, whereas a smaller bucket can be used to dig trenches or in a narrow area. The job will be faster by switching buckets when necessary.
Work in Layers
Instead of digging deep in one go, work in layers. This makes the machine easier to control and keeps the soil from collapsing back into the hole.
Stay Safe
Wear protective eye wear, such as boots, gloves and a helmet, at all times. Watch out for underground cables or pipes, and no children should be allowed anywhere near the digger so long as it is running.
Avoid Overworking the Machine
Micro diggers are hard, but there is a limit. Never load the bucket too heavily or attempt to handle heavy rocks which the machine cannot manage. This can lead to the destruction of the digger and also the retardation of your project.
Keep the Ground Stable
When the ground is wet or uneven, put boards or mats under the tracks. This inhibits sinking and slipping of the digger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many first-time users make mistakes that can cost time and money. Here are the ones to watch out for:
- Not planning ahead – Without a clear plan, you may end up digging in the wrong place.
- Forgetting about access – Always check if the machine can get into your worksite.
- Ignoring safety rules – Accidents often happen when people take shortcuts.
- Not checking underground utilities – Always confirm where pipes and cables are located before digging.
Cost of Micro Digger Hire
The cost of hiring a micro digger varies depending on location, machine size and hire period. On average:
- Day hire – Affordable option for quick tasks.
- Weekend hire – Popular for DIY home projects.
- Weekly hire – Best value for bigger jobs.
Many hire companies also provide delivery and collection services for an extra fee. Always compare prices, but remember that the cheapest option is not always the best. Look for a company with good service, reliable machines and clear pricing.
Benefits of Using a Reputable Hire Company
Choosing the right hire company makes a big difference. A trusted provider will:
- Deliver the machine on time
- Offer well-maintained equipment
- Provide instructions and safety advice
- Be available for support if something goes wrong
This gives you peace of mind and ensures your project runs smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a micro digger can transform the way you handle projects at home or on site. These compact machines save time, reduce hard labour and deliver professional results, even in small spaces. By planning carefully, choosing the right machine and following simple tips and tricks, you can make the most of your hire.
If you are planning a landscaping or building project and need reliable equipment, call Quick Hire Group for affordable micro digger hire. Our team will guide you in choosing the right machine and provide everything you need to get the job done quickly and safely.