Understanding Delivery Options and Timeframes - Coates Hire
Delivery Service Options
Standard Delivery
- Timeframe: Next business day
- Best for: Planned projects with flexible timing
- Scheduling: Specific time windows available upon request
- Cost: Standard delivery fee based on distance and equipment
Same-Day Delivery
- Timeframe: Within 4-6 hours (subject to availability)
- Best for: Urgent breakdowns or unexpected equipment needs
- Booking: Call 13 15 52 to check availability
- Cost: Premium delivery fee applies
Scheduled Delivery
- Timeframe: Book in advance for specific date and time
- Best for: Large projects requiring coordination with other trades
- Planning: Book at least 48 hours ahead for best availability
- Cost: Standard delivery fee, no premium for advance booking
Customer Pickup
- Timeframe: Immediate (during branch hours)
- Best for: Smaller equipment you can transport yourself
- Requirements: Suitable vehicle/trailer and tie-down equipment
- Cost: No delivery fee
Delivery Timeframes by Region
| Location | Standard Delivery | Same-Day Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan areas | Next business day | Usually available before 2pm cutoff |
| Regional centres (within 100km) | 1-2 business days | Limited - enquire with local branch |
| Remote locations (100km+) | 2-3 business days | Not typically available |
| Interstate delivery | 3-5 business days | Not available |
Delivery Process - What to Expect
Before Delivery Day
- Booking confirmation: You'll receive email confirmation with delivery date
- Pre-delivery call: Our team will call to confirm timing (usually day before)
- Time window: We'll provide a delivery window (e.g., 8am-12pm or 1pm-5pm)
- Site requirements: Ensure site access and unloading area is prepared
On Delivery Day
- Driver arrival: Driver will call/text when 30 minutes away
- Site assessment: Driver checks access and unloading location
- Equipment placement: Equipment positioned as requested (within safe limits)
- Handover: Brief orientation on equipment operation and safety
- Documentation: Sign delivery docket to confirm receipt
What's Included in Delivery
- Transport to your site
- Offloading from delivery vehicle
- Basic positioning on firm, level ground
- Equipment orientation and safety briefing
- Delivery documentation
What's NOT Included
- Placement in difficult access areas (narrow passages, upper floors)
- Setup or commissioning (available as additional service)
- Removal of packaging or crating
- Connection to power sources or utilities
- Traffic management or road closures
Site Requirements for Delivery
Access Requirements
| Equipment Type | Vehicle Used | Access Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Small tools, generators | Van or ute | Standard vehicle access |
| Scissor lifts, large equipment | Truck with tailgate | 4m width, 4.5m height clearance |
| Heavy machinery | Semi-trailer or low-loader | Wide access, stable ground for offloading |
Ground Conditions
- Firm surface: Concrete, asphalt, or compacted ground
- Level ground: Equipment must be placed on level surface
- Load bearing: Ground must support equipment weight
- Drainage: Avoid low-lying areas prone to water pooling
Site Preparation Checklist
- Clear access path from road to unloading area
- Remove overhead obstacles (tree branches, power lines)
- Mark or identify exact placement location
- Ensure adequate space for delivery vehicle to manoeuvre
- Arrange for responsible person onsite to receive delivery
- Have site contact mobile number readily available
Delivery Costs
Delivery charges are calculated based on:
- Distance from nearest Coates branch to your site
- Size and weight of equipment
- Delivery service type (standard vs same-day)
- Accessibility of delivery location
Ways to Reduce Delivery Costs
- Combine multiple items in one delivery
- Use standard next-day delivery instead of same-day
- Pick up smaller equipment yourself
- Book from your closest Coates branch
- Choose delivery and pickup on same day to reduce trips
Difficult Access Deliveries
Special arrangements may be needed for:
- High-rise buildings: Crane lifts or freight elevator access
- Narrow streets: May require smaller delivery vehicle
- Restricted access: Gated communities, secure sites with escort requirements
- Remote locations: Extended delivery times and potential additional costs
Always inform us of access challenges when booking so we can plan appropriately.
Return/Collection Process
Scheduling Equipment Collection
- Call 13 15 52 at least 24 hours before hire end date
- Confirm pickup date and time window
- Ensure equipment is accessible and ready for collection
- Have someone available to sign collection paperwork
Preparing Equipment for Collection
- Clean equipment of excessive dirt and debris
- Empty fuel tanks if requested
- Gather all accessories, manuals, and keys
- Position equipment for easy loading
- Note any damage or issues on collection docket
Delivery Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Delivery delayed | We'll contact you ASAP with revised time - check your mobile |
| Can't access site | Driver will call you to discuss alternative drop-off point |
| Wrong equipment delivered | Don't accept delivery - call 13 15 52 immediately |
| Equipment damaged in transit | Note on delivery docket, take photos, contact us within 24 hours |
| No one available to receive | Delivery will be rescheduled - additional fees may apply |
Tips for Smooth Delivery
- Book early to secure your preferred delivery date
- Provide accurate site address including any special instructions
- Have a mobile contact available on delivery day
- Inform us of any site access restrictions or challenges upfront
- Take photos of equipment condition upon delivery
- Ask driver any questions during handover - they're there to help
Questions about delivery to your location? Call 13 15 52 to discuss your specific needs.