Tuesday, 8 November 2011

Top Five Jobs for Excavators Under 12 Tonnes

Excavators are a vital piece of machinery for any business conducting work in the construction industry.  Excavators under 12 tonnes are especially important. They are necessary in carrying out a variety of work in the field, and must therefore be present in any construction business.  You need to pick an excavator under 12 tonnes carefully ensuring you are purchasing or hiring from a well known reputable company. The wrong choice in excavator could not only mean that you end up acquiring the wrong machinery for your job, but could also cost you time and money if the machine is mechanically unsound.

Here are some guidelines that you may follow in choosing excavators under 12 tonnes.  Below are the categories of excavators based on the range of jobs they are ideally used for:

1. For areas with limited and narrow working space. Where work is undertaken in a limited space of 1000mm to 1200mm, then a 1.5 tonne mini excavator is the ideal mini digger to use. This also works best for those working spaces that have restricted entries such as narrow alleys.

2. For intricate jobs in enclosed areas.  For domestic projects such as backyards and driveways that need earth moving to form footings and trenching - the 3 and 4 tonne mini excavators are the best machine for the job. These excavators are small enough to be able to manoeuvre in enclosed areas but they are also big enough for larger jobs such as pool preparations.

3. For site preparations and digging. 5 and 6 tonne excavators are compact machines that are versatile and suitable for many site preparation jobs - which include preparing the ground and shifting tonnes of materials.  The 5 and 6 tonne excavators are a popular choice on many construction sites as they are small enough to work in a confined area, but large enough to cope with bigger jobs.

4. For utilities, constructions and builders. For jobs that require greater strength for that better efficiency and capability - an 8 tonne excavator is the best to use. There are some jobs where pool builders, construction companies and utility companies may need a bigger digging capability and more powerful strength - and this type of excavator is just right.

5. For extensive work where breaking rocks are needed. In some cases, a rock breaking hammer or a hole boring auger may be needed in a construction job. This is where 8 to 11 tonne excavators come into play. Such kinds of job need a bigger and more powerful machine that can work on some rocks and can dig 600mm diameter.

Aside from the wide range of jobs you can do with under 12 tonne excavators, many also find compact excavators advantageous because of the following reasons:
- 360 degree rotation for unlimited spoil replacement
- Fuel and time saver
- Flexibility
- Powerful hydraulic systems for powerful digging
- Better and unobstructed view of the attachment
- Offset digging to dig square holes without repositioning the machine

Undoubtedly, excavators under 12 tonnes are efficient and practical machines to use for specialised construction jobs. All you need to make sure is to choose the right equipment so you achieve optimum performance.

Visit www.totallyplant.com to find a reliable excavators for all jobs from reputable sellers.

Wednesday, 26 October 2011

Where Can I Sell Used Tractors and Agricultural Machinery?

The Agriculture sector is vital to our economy, as it supplies one of people’s very basic needs,  food. It is therefore crucial that the machinery used in the agricultural sector is reliable and regularly maintained to ensure they provide farmers with continuous productivity.  Mechanically unsound agricultural machinery costs the industry money in downtime and maintenance.


Whilst brand new agricultural equipment seems like a good option, it is costly and in a struggling economic climate saving money where possible is crucial.  This is where buying used agricultural machinery and used tractors can be a wise money saving option, and chosen carefully from reputable sellers dealing in well maintained, good quality equipment will provide you with many more hours of continuous productivity and growth. For those of you who have surplus machinery, now could be a good time to sell your machinery in order to replace, update or simply enhance your current fleet.

If you are looking to sell your used agricultural machinery and used tractors, there are two avenues you could use - through print or online.

Taking advantage of the magazine classifieds is a good option, but be sure to choose an edition which specialises in used agricultural equipment and used plant machinery – however, you should not completely rely on them – and selling via the internet will give you access to far more dealers and buyers throughout the world rather than targeting just your own geographic regions. Both options are good effective ways of advertising and print is still a great offline marketing strategy to sell your used agricultural machinery and tractors.


There are numerous benefits in using the Internet to sell used agricultural machinery and tractors. For instance:

Online directories. If you are looking to maximise your audience, then online directories would be the best option. With the whole world at your fingertips finding a buyer should not be a problem.  Research the directories within such industry to determine which one will deliver the results you are after.  Rates of advertising also differ hugely, so make sure you are getting the best deal you can, and if necessary – negotiate to get the right price!  For instance, there are some companies who will offer a yearly subscription giving you unlimited advertising for the whole year.  For regular, high volume advertisers this could save thousand in advertising fees.  One such company who offers this service  is Totallyplant.com – for an idea of the service you will receive why not visit their website – www.totallyplant.com

Via dealers. If you want to avoid the hassle of dealing with buyers directly or if you need to secure a quick sale - then dealers may be a better option for you. There are so many dealers who are actively looking to buy good quality used machinery, and whilst arguably you will receive a better price selling privately, a dealer will still give you a good and fair price, meaning you can quickly release any monies you have tied up in such equipment. By Simply searching the internet you can find many local online dealers who can assist you.

In a nutshell - the Internet is the ideal tool for buyers and sellers of used agricultural machinery and tractors like yourself.  Make the most of this convenient and effective resource and go online now to sell your used plant machinery.  


Wednesday, 19 October 2011

GET YOUR THOROUGH EXAMINATIONS OF PLANT MACHINERY BOOKED IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

Need to get your Plant and Construction Machinery inspected for their Certificate of Thorough Examination?  The Christmas period is the best time to do this.  Many sites are closed over the festive season and plant machinery and construction equipment is either returned to the hirer or left idle.  This is an ideal time to get your plant safety certifications in place.  Why?  When machines are on site, the Engineer will require the machine stops working for the inspection to take place, the inspection can take up to an hour in some cases, therefore why not take advantage of the quiet period to ensure your machines are ready to go straight to work in the New Year.

This is also a good time to ensure your servicing and general plant machinery maintenance are all up to date.

For more information contact Totallyplant.com who can advise you on Certificates of Thorough Examination, Servicing and Repairs.

Friday, 7 October 2011

Advertising Your Construction Machinery for Sale


The worldwide web has fast become an essential and effective way of modern day advertising, enabling it’s users to reach out and access a much wider audience than more traditional methods.  For those wishing to sell via the internet, there is a vast array of companies providing well designed, easy to use advertising platforms which are used and accessed by a global audience maximising the chances of attracting genuine buyers and hopefully securing that all important sale.

When placing your ad on line it is vital to produce a well written advertisement with maximum content, this will not only increase your chances of being found, but will also attract a larger audience of potential buyers.  Below are some key points to consider when writing your ads:-

Pricing.  A common problem experienced by sellers is overpricing.  If you are unsure of the value of your used plant machinery then carry out research on other plant machinery for sale of the same or similar specifications to get an idea of the price other sellers are asking.  By making a few enquiries you should get a good idea of the market value for your construction machinery.  Where possible try to avoid advertising your machinery as "Price on Asking" (P.O.A) for more common pieces of heavy equipment which are available in abundance.  Why is this?  If your ad appears next to a similar machine with an attractive price the Buyer is more likely to be drawn into the other advertisement and not yours.  If your machinery is priced correctly you will entice a higher number of genuine enquiries.  However, for less common plant machinery where choice for Buyer’s is limited a "Price on Asking" is less likely to deter your buyers and can sometimes be of benefit to the Seller in negotiating a good selling price.  You will need to use your judgement when conducting your research on this point, to clarify, if the market is saturated with similar products then always try to include a price, where your item is hard to find and/or in demand then there can be no harm in advertising your plant machinery as price on application. 

Use Pictures. This is a key factor in grabbing the attention of a prospective Buyer.  Ensure your pictures are of a good quality and show the best features of your construction machinery, it is also an idea to highlight any damage so a Buyer is well advised of condition and will avoid time wasting.  You should aim to include anything from four to six pictures in your advertisement from varying angles to give the best overview.  For example when taking pictures of a backhoe loader for sale ensure you include shots of both the front and rear of the machine.    

Description and History.  Provide a good description of the plant machinery for sale including age, hours, condition, number of previous owners, added extras (air conditioning, quick hitch, buckets, other attachments etc).  Are you prepared to arrange shipping or will this need to be arranged by the Buyer?  Does your machinery come with a good history of maintenance?  Will you be providing a Certificate of Thorough Examination with the machine or should the Buyer arrange their own inspection?

Location and Seller’s Details.  A Buyer will generally want to inspect the machinery before putting in an offer to purchase, therefore it is a good idea to include the location when advertising your construction machinery for sale.  Ensure you provide the correct contact details so the Buyer can contact you – it is usual to provide not only a landline number but also a mobile number to ensure your Buyer is able to make contact with you or a member of your organisation.  Most people will have an email address and or access to email so ensure you supply the best email address which is regularly monitored, if you are part of a larger organisation then giving a general email address will ensure that emails are picked up and monitored on a regular basis.

To get an extensive overview of heavy equipment currently available then visit an on line advertising platform such as Totallyplant.com where you will be able to compare a number of similar machines available from a number of reputable companies within the industry.

Tuesday, 20 September 2011

Purchasing Cranes And Platforms


Cranes and platforms are a vital and necessary component to many construction and engineering companies. As well as carrying, transferring and moving heavy items, they are also vital for employees and experienced tradesman to gain access for carrying our repair and construction jobs. To those looking to purchase cranes and platforms, the fact that there are lots of companies which sell them and at discount prices too - is surely something that would be received well. However, due to the number of companies competing for clients’ attention and in the current unsteady and unpredictable economic climate, it would be easy to choose the wrong company and thus, choosing the wrong cranes and platforms for your business operations purely based on a cheaper price. 

If you want to be sure that you would not end up wasting your time, money and effort in choosing the wrong equipment - the following suggestions may prod you towards choosing the best construction equipment for your company:-

Check the equipment’s status. A company offering a wide range of cranes and platforms  should allow the buyer access to the company or person selling the equipment. This way, you have the chance to personally check up on the previous history of the equipment and who better to answer these crucial questions than the previous owner. So, make use of that privilege and find out about the machinery that you would be purchasing, in particular ensure that the machinery has been well maintained during their ownership - a good servicing history is generally a sign that the equipment has been well look after.

Look at prices carefully. Although many cranes and platforms are offered at more affordable prices compared to their brand-new counterparts - there can often be major differences in the price. It is therefore essential to explore the market making a thorough analysis of pricing from various providers - this way you will know exactly what you are purchasing, that the valuation of the machinery is correct and you are not paying over the top.  When conducting your research it will be noted that a well maintained piece of construction equipment will no doubt cost more than one with a poor maintance history, however it is worth paying the extra for well maintained equipment as in the long run the cheaper option could end up costing you much more!

Ensure the equipment’s Certificates of Thorough Examination. This is an important document for any crane, platform or other lifting equipment used in the workplace.  Any certificate issued for the equipment should be in accordance with LOLER 98 and PUWER 98 in line with current laws and regulations.  A Certificate of Thorough Examination is a mark of the competence and safety of the machines and are a legal requirement for any machinery used within the workplace.  You must ensure that your newly purchased construction equipment is certificated prior to commencing work - to find out more please contact www.totallyplant.com who can advise you accordingly.

Wednesday, 31 August 2011

A Guide to Buying Used Construction Machinery

Used construction machinery is an essential asset to those who make their living by using tools and heavy equipment. Much like buying a car, they are far more affordable than brand new ones; making this a far more cost effective outcome especially for the smaller businesses who generally have a more limited budget when it comes to buying used plant equipment. There are plenty of companies that offer used construction machinery for sale.

By finding a good source of used plant machinery with plenty of choice you can be sure to find the right equipment for the job. To help you find the right place to buy used plantmachinery follow these useful guidelines.

1. Range of Machinery and Options. Before selecting a company from which to purchase your used construction machinery, take time to browse through the different makes, models and brands. This will make it easier for you to get used to the different tools and construction equipment which is on offer. By becoming familiar with the categories you will then know where to look. Also, if you need to get a lot of used construction machinery, it may well pay to purchase them from just one seller – which makes it a little bit easier to collect your machinery and equipment or alternatively could save you money on shipping costs.  There is also the added bonus of being able to negotiate a better price per machine for buying in bulk.

2. Quotes. Another consideration is the price at which the machinery is offered at, or if it is price on application (POA).  When you decide to choose a certain used construction machinery provider, ensure that you have, at least compared quotes from different sellers. This way, you’d have a better idea on the price you should be paying and what you can purchase for your budget.  Also, take time to look into who you are buying from - if necessary, ask for recommendations and make you own enquiries into how long the company has been in existence, are they registered etc.  Remember, you are parting with a lot of money and reassurance that you are buying from a reputable dealer is paramount.

3. Certificate of Thorough Examination. When purchasing the machinery, as well as ensuring the machine has a good service history and all the relevant paperwork, make enquiries into the annual certification history - if the machine is a working machine then it should have a certificate of thorough examination, is the seller willing to have this transferred into your company name?  This would assure you that the equipment can go straight to work and even more important - not be a source of danger to your employees and to your business.

Used construction machinery is a great way to expand the plant equipment for your business. And, finding a good source which combines a good range of quality sellers will help you to find your machinery. Following the above suggestions may point you towards the used construction machinery provider that could help you find the right equipment for you.  Totallyplant.com can provide you with machinery from many well respected and reputable dealers with thousand of machines for sale at competitive prices.

Tuesday, 9 August 2011

Why Do I Need A Certificate Of Thorough Examination For My Plant Machinery?


Businesses who use plant machinery in the work place must be able to provide a plant machinery certificate for every piece of equipment which falls under the provisions of PUWER 98 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, relating to items of safety, to include tyres, brakes, steering, visibility components, seat components etc) and LOLER 98 (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, which relates to all lifting components). These Certificates of Thorough Examination are issued to every piece of machinery equipment falling within these criteria - after it has been ascertained by a competent person that the safety and health regulations of the machinery used in the business are good to go. Every piece of machinery equipment falling within the regulations has to be examined completely at least once a year; re-examination of machinery equipment is also required after it has undergone major repair or restoration or other exceptional circumstances.  Any qualified examiner should be able to advise if these circumstances will result in the re-testing of the machine.

If the particular piece of equipment in question is used for lifting i.e. chains, shackles, straps, shrops, buckets etc then the regularity of the inspections is once every six months under LOLER 98.  This is due to the fact that these pieces of equipment wear more quickly.  Equipment used for lifting persons also require inspections every six months to include scissor lifts, mobile platforms, skyjacks etc.  Again, all these inspections must be carried out by a competent person.

There are numerous reasons why you, if you are an employer who uses pieces of plant machinery at work on a routine basis, should ensure regular inspections are undertaken. Failure to realise the importance of these inspections may trigger the onset of consequences that would prove damaging to your business:

1. Legal requirements - You only have to read the phrase ‘mandated by the law’ to develop a mental idea of why every piece of machinery equipment that you use should receive a plant machinery certificate. They are a legal requirement and the repercussions of not ensuring your construction equipment is regularly checked and certificated can be damaging to a business, and in the most severe cases may have a devastating impact on you, your employees and their families.  Prosecution from injuries caused as direct result of improper training and maintenance is a likely consequence which often results in large fines and, on occasions, imprisonment.  

2. Reduction of risks for accidents and other injuries - Having your plant machinery regularly inspected for its plant machinery certificate will ensure any health and safety risks are uncovered and highlighted thus reassuring you and your employees that no one is likely to come to any harm while operating those equipment. This is obviously going to be instrumental in the overall management and running of your business. Your employees too, would feel more secured about working for you if they are reassured that you are taking the necessary steps and precautions to ensure their welfare - if you have made sure that you get plant machinery certificates for every piece of machinery that you work.

Today, there are a number of companies who can provide you with your Certificates of Thorough Examination. As these companies have been trained in the proper way to conduct examinations and are staffed with people who have the accreditation to perform those examinations - you would not have any cause for worry. 

Some companies are under the impression that their examinations must be carried out by their insurance companies, this is not the case and insurers have no legal right to insist upon this.  However, it is a requirement that the machines are tested by competent persons having had the appropriate training and experience.

Should you have any questions or queries with regards to Certificates of Thorough Examination then please contact Totallyplant.com who will be able to assist.

Monday, 27 June 2011

Who are Totallyplant.com?

Totallyplant.com is an online marketplace for buying, selling and certifying your construction machinery.  If you are looking to buy plant you will find we have a quality selection of both new and used plant machinery ranging from waste, recycling and quarrying equipment to  excavators, mini diggers, cranes, dumpers, backhoe loaders, compressors, generators and forklifts from manufacturers such as JCB, Caterpillar, Liebherr, Doosan, Daewoo, Hitachi, Samsung, Case, Kleeman, Ingersoll Rand and many more well known and trusted names within the industry.

Within our road construction and agricultural sections you will find a large selection of tractors, telehandlers, rollers, graders, light towers, dozers, asphalt pavers, harvesting equipment and traffic management systems competitively price and of great quality.

If you are looking to advertise your plant machinery for sale, then you’ve come to the right place.  Not only we will provide you with a worldwide platform appealing to sellers from across the globe, but with a yearly subscription fee of just £300 (+VAT) giving you unlimited advertising for the year, this makes us one of the most competitively priced advertising platforms in the industry.  To find out more please contact us on 08455 213 253 or visit www.totallyplant.com.

Need maintenance to your existing machinery?  Our expert team of fitters can take care of that for you.  With a vast range of experience we can provide experts in the following areas:-

  • Break assistance, repairs and servicing to your fleet of plant machinery.
  • Pre-purchase inspection reports – giving you a full report on the mechanical soundness and condition of the construction machinery you’re looking to purchase.