Not sure which forklift you need? Our guide explains capacity, height, terrain, and safety to help you pick the right forklift for any job.

# **How to Choose the Right Forklift for the Job**

Whether you're moving pallets on a construction site, loading a container or truck, or shifting stock in a warehouse, choosing the right forklift for the job can make all the difference in efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. At Flexihire, we offer a wide range of material handling equipment across Queensland and northern New South Wales, and we’re here to help you pick the best one for your needs.

Here’s what you need to consider when hiring a forklift:

### **1. Understand Your Lifting Requirements**

Start with the basics:
- Load weight – How heavy is the typical load you’ll be lifting? 
- Lift height – How high do you need to raise your materials?
- Load type – Are you moving pallets, bulk materials, or something more unusual?

At Flexihire, our forklifts come in a variety of weight capacities and lift heights. Be sure to choose a model that not only meets but slightly exceeds your needs for added safety.

### **2. Consider the Work Environment**

Your worksite plays a huge role in determining the right forklift:
- Indoor or outdoor use? LPG forklifts are great for indoor use due to their lower emissions compared to diesel-powered options. Diesel options are better suited for outdoor work environments. 
- Ground surface – Smooth concrete or uneven, gravelly surfaces? For rougher ground, consider a Rough-Terrain forklift, to conquer the outdoors.
- Tight spaces – If you’re working in a tight warehouse or confined construction site, a Container-Mast Forklift might be the right choice, thanks to their compact design and exceptional manoeuvrability.

### **3. Fuel Type Matters**

We offer forklifts powered by diesel and LPG. Each has its advantages:
- Diesel: Great for outdoor use and heavy lifting. Powerful and durable.
- LPG: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. Fast refuelling.

Need help deciding? Our helpful Flexihire team are all experts and can guide you through the pros and cons of each option.

### **4. Don’t Forget Attachments**

Sometimes a standard forklift isn’t enough. Consider whether you’ll need:
- Fork extensions
- Rotators or clamps
- Work platforms and cages

We have a range of forklift attachments available for hire to make your job even easier and more efficient.

### **5. Check Access and Transport Requirements**

Will the forklift fit through your entry points or onto your site? Do you need us to deliver the equipment? Flexihire offers fast, flexible delivery options and can help ensure the forklift you choose is accessible and ready when you need it.

### **6. Talk to the Experts**

Choosing the right forklift doesn’t need to be complicated. Our expert team at Flexihire can help assess your site conditions and load requirements to recommend the perfect machine for your job.

#### Ready to Hire?

We stock a wide range of forklifts across all 16 Flexihire branches – from electric walk-behind forklifts to heavy-duty all-terrain models. If you’re unsure where to start, give us a call or drop into your local branch. We’re here to help you get the job done right.

#### Need help choosing the right forklift?
📞 Call your local Flexihire branch or
💬 Get in touch online today!


How to Choose The Right Forklift for the Job

Whether you're a tradie managing multiple job sites or a first time DIY’er taking on a weekend project, hiring equipment should be simple, fast, and stress-free.

![The Flexihire Hiring Process Image.webp](https://flexihire.com.au/info-hub/The_Flexihire_Hiring_Process_Image_6ee8f49aa5.webp)


# **The Flexihire Hiring Process - And How Easy It Is!**

Whether you're a tradie managing multiple job sites or a first time DIY’er taking on a weekend project, hiring equipment should be simple, fast, and stress-free. At Flexihire, we've simplified the process to make hiring exactly that - easy. With expert support, flexible hire terms, and a huge range of reliable equipment, we’ll help you get on with it, and get the job done. There’s a reason we’ve been in business for over 45 years!
Here’s how the Flexihire hire process works, step by step.

#### **1. Get in Touch or Drop In**
You can call us, visit one of our 18 branches across QLD and Northern NSW, or head to flexihire.com.au to browse our full range of equipment. Not sure exactly what you need? No problem, our friendly team is here to help recommend the right gear for your specific project.

#### **2. Get the Right Gear, Fast**
We’ll ask a few quick questions about your job and guide you to the right equipment or machinery. From excavators and rollers to power tools and forklifts, we’ve got it all – even down to the portable building to relax in afterwards! And if you’re hiring something more specialised, we’ll explain any licensing, safety or training requirements upfront.

#### **3. Lock it in!**
Once we’ve found the right equipment for the job, we’ll organise the hire on your terms. Short or long-term, delivery or pickup, whatever suits you. Our paperwork is quick, clear, and straight to the point. You’ll be in and out before you know it. Leaving you more time to concentrate on the job at hand.

#### **4. Pickup or Delivery? Your Call!**
Need it delivered to site? We’ve got you sorted. Prefer to collect from your local branch? That’s easy too, with 18 branches across Queensland and Northern NSW, we’re local no matter where you are. All our gear is thoroughly maintained, tested, and ready to go, so you can get straight to work.

#### **5. Use It, Return It - Job Done!**
When you're finished, just return the equipment (or we’ll pick it up), and we’ll take care of the rest. Our team will inspect and service it, so it's ready for the next job. Simple.

#### Why Choose Flexihire?
- Friendly, expert advice
- Huge range of well-maintained equipment
- Fast turnaround and flexible hire periods
- 18 convenient locations
- 100% Australian-owned and operated

#### Ready to Hire?
Let’s get it sorted. Contact your local Flexihire branch, or book online today.

Flexihire – Equipment Hire Specialists


The Flexihire Hiring Process - And How Easy It Is!

Whether you're trenching, lifting, or digging footings, choosing the right excavator for the job can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

# **How to choose the right excavator for the job**

Whether you're trenching, lifting, or digging footings, choosing the right excavator for the job can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.
At Flexihire, we’ve helped thousands of customers, from first-time 'DIYers' to seasoned contractors, pick the right gear. 

Here's what to consider when hiring your next excavator.

### **1. Understand the Job Requirements**

Start by asking:
1. What type of work are you doing? (Trenching, demolition, landscaping, lifting, etc.)

2. How deep and wide will you need to dig?

3. Are you working in tight or open spaces?

4. Will you need attachments like augers or buckets?

The more specific you are, the better match we can recommend!

### **2. Consider the Excavator Size**

Excavators come in a range of sizes - each suited for different work zones and lifting capabilities.

**Mini Excavators (0.8–3.5T)**
- Best for: Tight spaces, backyard projects, small footings, and plumbing trenches.

- Why hire: Compact, easy to transport, and simple to operate.

**Medium Excavators (5–8T)**
- Best for: Residential construction, drainage work, moderate site clearing.

- Why hire: Stronger digging power and more stability, still reasonably nimble.

**Large Excavators (10T+)**
- Best for: Large-scale civil works, demolition, commercial construction.

- Why hire: Serious power, extended reach, ideal for heavy-duty digging and lifting.


### **3. Check Site Access & Conditions**

Measure your site access before you hire:
- Will the machine need to fit through gates or between buildings?

- Are there soft, wet, or uneven surfaces?

- Is there overhead clearance for swing radius?

Our team can help match the right track width and tail-swing configuration to your site.

### **4. Choose the Right Attachments**

Maximise your hire with the right tools for the job:
- Buckets (standard, mud, or trenching)

- Augers (for post holes or fencing)

- Rock breakers (for demolition or tough ground)

- Grabs (for moving debris or timber)

Let us know what you’re doing - we’ll suggest the best fit.

### **5. Don’t Forget Operator Experience**

If it’s your first time on a machine, stick to:
- Mini diggers (they’re easier to control)

- Machines with zero tail-swing (to avoid hitting things)

- Flexible hire options so you’re not rushed


### **6. Ask the Professionals**

Not sure? That’s where we come in! At Flexihire, we:
- Walk you through your job requirements

- Match you with the right excavator and attachments

- Deliver gear across Queensland and Northern NSW - fast

We’ll help you get the job done right, the first time.


#### Need Help Choosing?
Call your nearest Flexihire [**branch**](/branch/) or request a quote online. We’re here to back you up with the right gear and expert advice - every time.


Choosing the Right Excavator for the Job 

Flexihire branches are trading at reduced hours over the holiday period.. See our opening hours by location in this article.

Flexihire [**branches**](/branch/) will be operating at reduced hours over the Christmas and New Year period.  Specific details for each branch location are listed below.  Rest assured we will have staff available throughout our network of branches to assist with [**equipment hire**](/equipment-hire/) enquiries.  

We would like to thank all of our customers for your business throughout 2024.  It has been a busy year for us! Wishing you a safe and restful Christmas and holiday break and we look forward to assisting you with your equipment hire needs in 2025 and beyond. Have a wonderful Christmas from all of the team at Flexihire.

### Holiday Trading Hours

#### Airlie Beach

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Sunday 5th January 2025

#### Biloela

**Closed** Saturday 21st December 2024 – Sunday 29th December 2025

**Reduced Hours** Monday 30th December 2024 - Tuesday 31st December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Wednesday 3rd January 2025

#### Caboolture

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Friday 10th January 2025

#### Cairns

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 - Sunday 29th December 2024

**Reduced Hours** Monday 30th December 2024 - Tuesday 31st December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Wednesday 3rd January 2025

#### Emerald

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Sunday 5th January 2025

#### Gladstone

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 - Sunday 29th December 2024

**Reduced Hours** Monday 30th December 2024 - Tuesday 31st December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Wednesday 3rd January 2025

#### Gold Coast

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Friday 10th January 2025

#### Grafton

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Sunday 5th January 2025

#### Loganholme

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Friday 10th January 2025

#### Longreach

**Closed** Saturday 21st December 2024 - Sunday 19th January 2025

#### Mackay

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Sunday 5th January 2025

#### Moranbah

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Wednesday 3rd January 2025

#### Rockhampton Park Avenue

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Sunday 5th January 2025

#### Rockhampton

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 - Sunday 29th December 2024

**Reduced Hours** Monday 30th December 2024 - Tuesday 31st December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Wednesday 3rd January 2025

#### Rocklea

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 – Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Friday 10th January 2025

#### Townsville

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 - Sunday 29th December 2024

**Reduced Hours** Monday 30th December 2024 - Tuesday 31st December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Friday 10th January 2025

#### Yeppoon

**Reduced Hours** Monday 23rd December 2024 - Tuesday 24th December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 25th December 2024 - Sunday 29th December 2024

**Reduced Hours** Monday 30th December 2024 - Tuesday 31st December 2024

**Closed** Wednesday 1st January 2025

**Reduced Hours** Thursday 2nd January 2025 - Wednesday 3rd January 2025

Christmas & New Year Trading 2024/2025

Safety is non-negotiable in the hire industry. See how Flexihire prioritises the safety of our customers and teams  with high quality and well maintained equipment.

## How Flexihire ensures proper handling and maintenance of rental equipment

In our industry, safety is non-negotiable. From heavy machinery operation to tool usage, every aspect of a work site carries inherent risks that must be mitigated through rigorous safety protocols. At all of our Flexihire [**branches**](/branch/), we prioritise the safety of our customers and their teams by providing high-quality and extremely well-maintained [**equipment**](/equipment-hire/), as well as comprehensive guidance on proper handling. In this article, we'll delve into the importance of prioritising safety and outline key practices for ensuring the safe operation of the equipment.

### Why Safety Matters: 

Construction sites are dynamic environments where multiple activities are carried out simultaneously, often in close proximity. Accidents resulting from improper equipment handling or maintenance can lead to serious injuries, project delays, and financial liabilities. By prioritising safety, construction companies and DIY specialists can protect themselves, their workers, maintain project timelines, and uphold their reputation for professionalism and reliability.

### Proper Handling of Rental Equipment:

1. Training and Certification: Before operating any rental equipment, ensure that operators are adequately trained and certified to handle the specific machinery. Flexihire provides comprehensive operation manuals and risk assessment information via our [**Info Hub**](/info-hub/) portal, to familiarise operators with equipment functions, safety procedures, and emergency protocols.
2. Read Manufacturer's Manuals: Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer's manuals and safety guidelines for each piece of equipment. Pay close attention to recommended operating procedures and safety precautions to minimise the risk of accidents or malfunctions.
3. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that all personnel operating or working near equipment wear appropriate PPE, including hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, and steel-cap boots. PPE helps minimise the risk of injuries from falling debris, flying particles, or accidental contact with moving machinery parts.
**
### Flexihire Maintenance Practices:

1. At Flexihire, we strictly adhere to all maintenance schedules for every single piece of equipment. Regular maintenance tasks such as lubrication, filter replacement, fluid checks and pre-hire inspections are essential for ensuring optimal equipment performance for our customers.
2. We keep our equipment spotless! We clean our equipment from top to bottom in between each rental, removing dirt, debris, and corrosive substances that can compromise the equipment’s functionality and structural integrity, ensuring we use appropriate cleaning agents and techniques to avoid damaging sensitive components or surfaces.
3. We’re here to help! Report any equipment malfunctions, unusual noises, or performance issues to Flexihire immediately. Avoid using damaged or malfunctioning equipment until it has been inspected and repaired by our qualified Flexihire technicians to prevent accidents or further damage - your safety is paramount!
4. Equipment storage: When not in use, our equipment is stored in a secure, well-ventilated area away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and corrosive substances. By following proper storage guidelines, Flexihire is able to prevent premature wear and deterioration, ensuring our equipment cements its place as the best in the industry! 

In conclusion, prioritising safety and proper maintenance practices are essential for maximising the efficiency and safety of our Flexihire equipment. By following the guidelines outlined above and partnering with a trusted rental provider like FlexiHire, construction companies and handymen can ensure a safe and productive work environment for themselves and their teams whilst achieving project success. Remember, safety always comes first at Flexihire! 


Safety-First with Flexihire

Flexihire's newest branch on the Gold Coast at 245 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters is now open offering a comprehensive range of equipment for hire.

Flexihire is excited to announce the opening of our newest branch on the Gold Coast. Backed by our 45 years of experience in equipment hire [**Flexihire Gold Coast**](/branch/gold-coast/) is conveniently located at 245 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters and offers a full range of quality, new equipment and well maintained machines.

Flexihire Gold Coast has a comprehensive range of equipment including scissor lifts, boom lifts, message boards, compaction equipment, generators, mobile lighting, jackhammers, excavators, skid steer loader bobcats, pressure washers and more. Browse the full range of [**equipment**](/equipment-hire/) and get an instant online quote or call the branch on [**07 3186 9510**](tel:0731869510) to discuss the best solution for your next project.

Adding another [**branch**](/branch/) to our south east Queensland network ensures Flexihire can meet the needs of our customers from the Sunshine Coast to the Tweed Coast and inland to the hinterland and ranges. With our network of branches working together to secure the equipment our customers need, our own fleet of transport vehicles ensures equipment can be moved quickly and efficiently to where it is needed.

Flexihire is proud of our history serving metro and regional Queensland with quality equipment hire and we look forward to making Flexihire Gold Coast the convenient choice for locals, whether it be for DIY projects, construction, infrastructure or trades.

![Gold Coast VMS Boards - Flexihire.webp](https://www.flexihire.com.au/info-hub/Gold_Coast_VMS_Boards_Flexihire_190adad662.webp)

![Gold Coast Yard.webp](https://www.flexihire.com.au/info-hub/Gold_Coast_Yard_7bf6147cc3.webp)

![Gold Coast Scaffold Equipment.webp](https://www.flexihire.com.au/info-hub/Gold_Coast_Scaffold_Equipment_320dfe245e.webp)

Flexihire Gold Coast Now Open

Flexihire has created a brand new range of helpful instructional videos for our most popular equipment. 

Flexihire has created a brand new range of helpful instructional videos for our most popular equipment. Available on our dedicated YouTube Channel [**Flexihire Equipment Hire Specialists**](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCanGBD4qF8xjGsw5RuZj6ZQ) click on the link to follow and share our content so you can be alerted to new videos as they are added.

Our initial release covers a range of equipment categories, focusing on the following machines:

[**Snorkel Cherry Picker**](/media-centre/how-to-videos/snorkel-cherry-picker-instructional-video)

[**JLG Metro LED Light Tower**](/media-centre/how-to-videos/jlg-metro-led-light-tower-instructional-video)

[**Dingo Mini Loader**](/media-centre/how-to-videos/dingo-mini-loader-instructional-video)

[**Stihl Quick Cut Saw**](/media-centre/how-to-videos/quick-cut-saw-instructional-video)

All of the videos can be accessed through our excellent [**media centre**](/media-centre/how-to-videos) and [**info hub**](/info-hub) that contains the information and documentation you need on our range of tools and machinery for hire including manufacturer manuals, safe operating procedures, risk assessments, specifications and videos. Search by equipment type, equipment number, manufacturer or model.

We look forward to creating more instructional videos to help our customers get the most out of their equipment hire. Please contact us if you have any questions relating to our videos or suggestions for new equipment you’d like to see in our Info Hub library.

Contact your local [branch](/branch) for all your equipment hire needs on 1300 353 944 or get an [**instant online quote**](/equipment-hire)

New Instructional Videos Available

Calculating what generator size you need for your job - Flexihire

Instructional article for calculating which generator is required for power requirements.

Calculating the size of your generator can be difficult. Amps, voltage, KW and KVA are all common power terms. Typically generators are measured in KVA, motors in KW and other loads such as welders in amps and volts. So as a simple rule of thumb, these formulas should help.

KW Single Phase = Volts x Amps
KVA Single Phase = KW x PF or(=Volts x Amps x PF)
KW Three Phase = Volts x Amps x 1.73
KVA Three Phase = KW x PF or (=Volts x Amps x 1.73 x PF)
Amps Single Phase = KW/Volts
Amps Single Phase = KVA/PF/Volts
Amps Three Phase = KW/Volts/1.73
Amps Three Phase = KVA/PF/Volts/1.73
PF = the power factor – check the appliance or motor being powered.

Flexihire has an extensive range of [single phase](/generators-fuel/single-phase-generators) and [3 phase](/generators-fuel/3-phase-generators) generators available for hire. Contact your local [branch](/branch) for expert advice on the right generator for your job or call [1300 353 944](tel:1300353944).  We also have a wide range of [equipment](/equipment) to complement a generator hire from Flexihire.

How To Calculate Generator Size

Disability Employment at Flexihire Yeppoon

Flexihire is a disability employment services advocate, recently welcoming Robert Wake to our Yeppoon Branch.

Flexihire is a proud Queensland company and we are passionate about supporting people and businesses in the local communities where we operate.  Our [**Yeppoon**](/branch/yeppoon) branch welcomed a [**new employee**](/work-with-us) last month with Robert Wake commencing work on 19 January.  Rob (as he likes to be called) is an extraordinary young man with a range of challenging disabilities that have limited his capacity to find meaningful work.

Rob’s clinical diagnosis is very complex and includes a genetic disorder called mixaploidy/tetraploidy, severe autism, hypotonia, muscular scoliosis, sensory processing disorder and global developmental delay. Whilst Rob is non-verbal, he is a great listener and able to follow instructions.

The team at Yeppoon first met Rob through his passion for machinery which saw him visit the branch each week to spend time around the equipment. Recognising Rob’s curiosity and how much positive energy he brought with him on his visits, Branch Manager Shannon Burdon engaged with his mum Kris learning more about Rob’s background and challenges.

From here, the seeds of employment opportunity were sown and Shannon approached our Managing Director Chris Moyes with a proposal to offer Rob a job.  In consultation with his mum and supporting health care professionals, Flexihire came up with a role where Rob works 8 hours a week and is a fully integrated member of the branch, complete with uniform, employment contract and a job description.

To say Rob is delighted with his new role is an understatement.  He lives for Flexihire and doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty – which is a good thing given the nature of working in the equipment hire industry!

Giving Rob this opportunity is not only a huge win for Flexihire as we have a passionate and dedicated employee.  It also shines a light on the many benefits of employing people with disabilities and sets an example for other companies to follow.

Flexihire is proud to have Rob on board and the whole team look forward to supporting him and helping him learn and grow in this newly created role.  Welcome Rob to the Flexihire Team.

![Flexihire Yeppoon Robert Wake-Flexihrie.webp](https://production-flexe-assets.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Flexihire_Yeppoon_Robert_Wake_Flexihrie_62f87f6ecd.webp)
![Flexihire Yeppoon Robert Wake 2-Flexihire.webp](https://production-flexe-assets.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Flexihire_Yeppoon_Robert_Wake_2_Flexihire_aedb2fd48a.webp)

News & Articles

How to Choose The Right Forklift for the Job

The Flexihire Hiring Process - And How Easy It Is!

Choosing the Right Excavator for the Job