How to Choose the Right Construction Hoist for Your Project
Lifting heavy loads is often regarded as one of the riskiest and most challenging jobs on a job site. But with the right hoist, it doesn’t have to be. A material hoist, also known as a construction hoist, is specifically designed to allow operators to safely and efficiently vertically transport materials and personnel to multiple levels of a building under construction. The choice of a suitable hoist improves efficiency, minimises the risk of accidents, and contributes to timely project completion.
Allow us to outline some important things to consider when choosing a hoist to hire for your next project.
1. Brand
Look for brands known for producing quality, reliable machinery. Reputable hoist manufacturers stand out in the crowd due to their strong, proven track record of delivering highly efficient, technologically advanced machinery. For example, brand reputation was a key factor in Preston Hire deciding to partner with Raxtar, a Dutch manufacturer, for our fleet of construction hoists. A proven and premium European brand, Raxtar is well known for providing world-class vertical access solutions.
2. Product reliability
A vital part of what makes a reputable heavy machinery brand is the reliability of their products. By choosing a trusted manufacturer for your hoist hire you can have confidence in the machine’s performance on site. A reliable brand is committed to customer satisfaction and has garnered a reputation over many years for supplying high quality equipment. This greatly minimises the risk of equipment failure and costly downtime.
3. Parts availability
Although a hoist provider should take all precautions to minimise the risk of repairs required during the term of your hire, unexpected equipment breakdown can still occur. In these extenuating circumstances, parts may need to be replaced on the hoist before work can resume. Some brands may need to ship replacement parts from overseas, pushing your deadlines out even further. Choosing a brand that has OEM parts readily available in New Zealand can significantly reduce downtime required for repairs.
4. Performance
Researching a hoist brand also involves ascertaining whether there are common faults experienced with their machines. If review after review is flagging a certain issue, such as frequent breakdowns, this may be a manufacturing fault. Look for a hoist brand with a reputation for efficient product performance.
5. Service intervals
How often is the heavy equipment provider servicing their hoists? This is important to find out as the more regular the servicing intervals, the less likelihood of breakdown or repairs. The service records will show the frequency of preventative maintenance. If the hoist provider cannot evidence of maintenance, then this should indicate the high likelihood of issues arising with your hoist hire.
6. Age of the construction hoist
Just like your car, wear and tear can negatively affect the performance of a hoist over time. This means that new hoists tend to outperform old ones. Older models may also require more frequent servicing and repairs.
Are you looking to hire a hoist?
There are several variables to consider when it comes to choosing the best hoist for your project, from brand reputation to the age of the hoist. If you’re searching for reliable, efficient, and cost-effective construction hoists for hire, contact us to learn more about our SuperHoist™ fleet. With the highest possible safety standards in the New Zealand market, you can rest easy knowing your site and team are in the safest of hands with Preston Hire.
For more information about our vertical access solutions, visit our website or call us today on 0800 440 558.
