Backhoe loader hire
3 sizes of backhoe loader (8 to 10 tonnes). Choose the size, configure the attachments and tell us when you need it. A hire company near your site contacts you directly.
The photos show example models for each size. The hire company confirms the model and configuration available.
Example: JCB 3CX ECOConfiguration: standard Backhoe loader Standard
Trenching, loading and clearingStandard: typically used for trenching, loading and clearing. Two machines in one: a loading shovel at the front and a digging arm at the back. Very versatile on council, farm and utility work.
Trenching, loading and clearing- Companies
- Local, from our network
- Contact
- Direct from the company
- Attachments
- 9 available
- Rentapa service
- Free
Example: JCB 4CXConfiguration: equal-size wheels Backhoe loader Equal-wheel (4x4x4)
More traction and manoeuvrabilityEqual-wheel (4x4x4): typically used for more traction and manoeuvrability. Two machines in one: a loading shovel at the front and a digging arm at the back. Very versatile on council, farm and utility work.
More traction and manoeuvrability- Companies
- Local, from our network
- Contact
- Direct from the company
- Attachments
- 9 available
- Rentapa service
- Free
Example: JCB 3CX ExtradigExtending rear dipper (Extradig) Backhoe loader Extending dipper
Deeper diggingExtending dipper: typically used for deeper digging. Two machines in one: a loading shovel at the front and a digging arm at the back. Very versatile on council, farm and utility work.
Deeper digging- Companies
- Local, from our network
- Contact
- Direct from the company
- Attachments
- 9 available
- Rentapa service
- Free
You may also need
When to hire a backhoe loader
Digging trenches and loading soil or rubble with the same machine: drainage, road and utility work, farm work and site clearance.
Which size to choose
Most are 8 to 10 t. Because they run on wheels they move quickly between work areas and can travel short distances on the road. On tight sites a mini digger with a skid steer is often more productive.
Frequently asked questions
How much does backhoe loader hire cost?
Backhoe loaders, often known by the JCB 3CX name, are usually hired operated and priced per day or per job. The total depends on the model, attachments, travel to site and how long the operator is needed. Ask for operated and self-drive prices where both are offered, and check what happens if the job runs over.
Can I hire a backhoe loader with an operator?
Yes, you can ask for operated hire. Choose that option and describe the job and the hours you expect; the hire company confirms availability and quotes for the operator. Compare the total including fuel, travel and any overtime.
How does delivery of a backhoe loader work?
You can ask for delivery and collection or arrange to collect it yourself, depending on the equipment and the company. Give the postcode, the access, the delivery times and how it can be unloaded. Check the price of both journeys and who loads and unloads before you accept the quote.
Do I need a licence or training to operate it?
On UK sites operators are normally expected to be trained and to hold a recognised card for the machine, such as CPCS or NPORS, or IPAF for access platforms, and the hire company may ask for proof. If you do not have one, hire it with an operator.
Guides to help you plan your hire
Guide · Self-drive or operated plant hire: which is right for your job?Self-drive or operated plant hire: costs, training, insurance, responsibilities and when an operator is worth it on your job.
Guide · Mini digger sizes: which one should you hire?Compare micro, mini and midi digger sizes: width, dig depth, access, attachments and transport, with indicative UK weekly hire prices.
Guide · Plant hire prices: what affects the cost and how to compare quotesWhat makes up a plant hire price: rates, delivery, damage waiver, fuel, operators, VAT and minimum hires, with example UK weekly rates.
Guide · Plant operator cards explained: CPCS, NPORS, IPAF and CSCSPlant operator cards explained: what CPCS, NPORS, IPAF PAL and CSCS cards cover, and what to tell a hire company before self-drive hire.
Guide · Skid steer loader: wheels or tracks?Wheeled or tracked skid steer? Compare ground conditions, running costs, attachments and sizes before you hire a compact loader.
Guide · Which site dumper should you hire?Site dumper sizes explained: tracked barrows, high-tip, swivel and forward tipping dumpers, access widths, safety and indicative UK prices.
Guide · Lorry loader, mobile crane or tower crane: which lifting option?Lorry loader (HIAB), mini crane, mobile crane or tower crane: reach, capacity, crane hire vs contract lift, permits and what to ask.
Guide · Scissor lift or cherry picker: which access platform to hire?Scissor lift or cherry picker? Compare height, outreach, platform size, indoor use and IPAF training before you hire an access platform.
Guide · Site cabins and welfare: what does a building site need?What welfare a UK building site needs: toilets, washing, drinking water, rest areas, towable welfare units, cabins and storage containers.
Guide · Telehandler sizes: how much reach and capacity do you need?How to choose a telehandler size: lift height, capacity, load charts, attachments and ground conditions, with indicative UK hire prices.
Guide · Wacker plate, trench rammer or roller: which compactor to hire?Choose the right compactor: forward or reversible plate, trench rammer, pedestrian or ride-on roller, by material, layer depth and area.
Guide · What size generator do I need? Working out kVA for site, home or eventWork out generator size in kVA for a site, home or event: kW vs kVA, load lists, starting current, 110 V and a rough calculator.
12 guides