Hiring an elevated work platform is straightforward when you know the steps. This guide walks you through the full process at Castle Access, from the first phone call to off-hire day, so your team can work safely and on time.
1) Start with a quick chat and a clear brief
Most hires begin with a short call or enquiry so we can understand your job. Useful details include working height, platform capacity, indoor versus outdoor use, floor or ground conditions, access constraints like door widths or slopes, and how long you need the machine. If you are unsure which lift fits, that is normal. Our team will recommend the right option after a few questions.
Helpful places to explore before you call:
- Compare scissor lifts for straight up-and-down work, warehouse tasks, and smooth floors.
- Look at boom lifts when you need up and outreach around obstacles.
- Check knuckle booms for tight sites, below-grade access, and complex positioning.
- For quick maintenance jobs, see cherry pickers.
2) Get a tailored recommendation and quote
Once we understand the task, we match a machine to your site and timeline, then provide a clear quote with flexible durations. Daily, weekly, and long-term options are available, with discounted rates for extended hires. If you hire regularly, we can discuss account terms to simplify repeat bookings.
3) Book the dates and confirm delivery details
We confirm your hire dates, delivery window, and pickup plan. You can choose site delivery or, for certain smaller units, trailer supply. For longer projects, delivery and collection may be included, which can be a tidy saving. We’ll also note any site quirks that might affect placement, such as crane reach, gradients, or tight driveways.
If you need other plant moved to or from site, our machinery transport team can relocate forklifts, farm gear, or access equipment across Auckland and beyond. One plan, one point of contact.
4) Pre-delivery checks and site preparation
Before your delivery day, run through a simple site checklist:
- Provide a clear, level pad for the lift and check door widths and turning space.
- Confirm power or charging arrangements for electric units if needed.
- Identify overhead hazards and mark exclusion zones.
- Arrange operator training if your team is new to the machine.
Our fleet is inspected before every hire so the unit arrives ready to work. If you want a refresher, we include practical tutorials at handover, covering controls, emergency stops, and safe use.
5) Delivery, placement, and handover on site
On delivery, the driver positions the unit where agreed. We level the machine if required, complete basic function checks, and run through start-up, parking, and charging or refuelling.
For booms, we cover safe outrigger or stabiliser use where applicable, platform entry, harness attachment points, and turret rotation limits. Your operators can ask questions on the spot so everyone is on the same page before work begins.
6) Safe operation during the hire
Keep your team and site safe by following good practice:
- Use trained operators and follow the manufacturer instructions.
- Wear the right PPE and, where required, use a harness and lanyard connected to a certified anchor point.
- Stay within platform capacity, and do not operate in unsafe wind or ground conditions.
For reference, see WorkSafe’s guidance on mobile elevating work platforms and working at height. It outlines planning, training, and control measures you should have in place.
If conditions change on site, or you need to swap to a different machine, call us. We can adjust the plan so your programme stays on track.
7) Support, servicing, and mid-hire changes
Every machine is maintained to a high standard, but if you ever notice an issue, we will help troubleshoot or replace the unit. For long jobs, we can schedule service checks and battery health reviews. If your scope grows, we can upsize to a taller scissor, add a second boom, or extend the hire without fuss.
8) Off-hire, pickup, and what happens next
When the job is done, we agree a pickup time that does not interrupt the last day’s work. Please park the unit in an accessible spot, lower and secure the platform, and leave keys where instructed. We collect on schedule and close out the hire. If you have another site starting, we can deliver directly there to save time.
Ready to book?
Tell us your height, task, and dates, and we will take care of the rest. Start with a quick call or message via Contact and get a clear plan and quote today.