Top 5 advice and features of 2019

You asked and we answered. From machine licensing requirements to what one can do with a bulldozer, here are the top 5 most read features on constructionsales.com.au:

5. What can you do with a bulldozer?

The first answer that probably springs to mind is destroying buildings and crushing stuff. Yes, bulldozers do those things but do you know they can do a whole lot more?

First and foremost, there are several types of bulldozers (or simply known as dozers) on the market. With each type comes different functions and applications. There are the wheeled, crawler ones and even industry specific ones like a military dozer which is a bit like a tank that comes complete with armoured cabs and rifle brackets but has a big blade at the front.

We cover plenty of ground in the feature, including the different types of dozers and the plethora of uses they offer.

4. 10 things you didn’t know you could do with a skid steer loader

A skid steer or compact tracked loader must be one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in the construction world. Thanks to its ability to be fitted and used with an assortment of attachments, it presents a world of opportunities for tradies who need to carry out a multitude of tasks on the job site.

We all know that it is well suited for stockpiling and loading purposes, but do you know it can also be used as a snow blower? Or that it can mix cement?

We explored a range of more obscure uses of a skid steer that will shine a whole new light on this handy piece of equipment.

3. 8 must-have excavator attachments

There’s certainly a theme to our most-read features of this year- that is the different types of earthmoving equipment on the market and the different uses they present.

The excavator is another versatile piece of machinery which, unbeknownst to some, can be used for more than just digging dirt.

By simply switching the bucket out for a range of attachments, it can be used to crush rocks, bore holes, sort materials, compact soil and more.

We spoke to the experts for their must-have attachments to go with your digger.

2. Do I need a license to operate excavators and earthmovers?

With an all-time high demand for construction machinery operators, it is no wonder that more and more people are pursuing a career in this booming industry.

The simple answer to the above question is no, you do not need to have underwent rigorous training and take a test to be qualified to operate heavy machinery legally in this country. There are a few exceptions of course, such as forklifts and cranes but there are no official licenses for excavators, loaders, skid steer loaders, dozers and the like.

But some documents including a “white card” or competency card will help a great deal when it comes to securing a job as a machine operator. We cover more in the feature.

1. 17 tips for buying a used excavator

The economy and the construction industry specifically is in a rather fickle state at the moment, with companies struggling to keep afloat due to rising wages and input costs and not much profit to be made.

It is not surprising then that companies are increasingly looking for used equipment to add to the fleet instead of brand new rigs which will help lower costs.

Whether new or used, buying an excavator is not a decision to be made lightly. There are plenty to think about and look into, which we covered in detail in this advice piece. We spoke to industry experts to gauge their thoughts and to obtain some top tips for when buying your next used excavator.