Asset Construction Hire comes highly recommended for Canberra truck, machinery, tool and equipment hire. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Let’s face it – trying to move house, transport bulky furniture, or manage a weekend DIY project without the right vehicle gets old pretty quickly. While it is doable, you’re likely to save time, effort and stress (not to mention fuel) by hiring a dependable truck to do the heavy lifting for you.
Truck hire services offer short or long-term access to commercial vehicles, including trucks of all sizes. They may also have vans, utes or even trailers available.
But finding the right provider with safe, reliable vehicles, good value and solid customer service can be quite the undertaking.
In this article, we’ll outline important qualities to consider when choosing a truck hire company and share where to find the very best in Canberra.
What makes a great truck hire service?
Choosing the right truck hire service can make your move or delivery go smoothly and save you from last-minute headaches. It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a truck hire provider in Canberra.
Well-maintained, modern vehicles. A top truck hire company will offer clean, regularly serviced vehicles with modern builds. This will reduce the risk of breakdowns and ensure a more comfortable, convenient experience.
Flexible hire options. From hourly rates to multi-day or weekly bookings, flexibility is key. A great provider should cater to short jobs as well as longer projects. Look for companies that allow after-hours pickup or return, as well as vehicles to suit a range of needs.
Transparent pricing. Nothing is more frustrating than getting hit with surprise charges after returning a hire truck. Clear pricing and upfront quotes will help you stick to your budget and avoid unnecessary disputes.
Clear insurance and damage policies. Hiring a truck involves some risk, so it’s important to understand the insurance coverage included in any service. Great truck hire companies make their terms easy to understand, with clear options for reducing liability in case of damage, giving you extra peace of mind on the road.
Availability. Moving house or completing projects often happens on weekends or over the holidays. The best truck hire companies plan ahead by maintaining a versatile fleet and ensuring availability even during periods of high demand.
The best truck hire in Canberra
Region Canberra’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Region Canberra's editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Asset Construction Hire
Asset Construction Hire has been a trusted provider of tools, equipment, machinery and vehicles for Canberra builders and businesses since 2010.
This independent family business is 100 per cent locally owned. The team features an eclectic mix of account managers, mechanics, technical officers, and industry experts who bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.
ACH specialises in the rental of elevated work platforms, forklifts, telehandlers, trucks, vans, utes, and machinery.
General hire equipment is also available, including generators, compressors, pumps, lighting, hand and power tools... the list goes on.
All machinery and vehicles are kept in top shape by an on-site team of fully qualified mechanics, but if an unexpected issue does pop up, emergency support is available 24/7.
ACH clients also benefit from a single dedicated account manager, who works to deeply understand the needs of each project.
ACH staff are more than happy to go the extra mile. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Staff are well known across Canberra for their friendly, can-do attitude and flexible, tailored approach to service. They even offer free site inspections to ensure customers hire the right gear for their project and environment.
"Could not recommend ACH enough," Brett said in a glowing Google review.
"... had a breakdown and within five minutes I was on the phone with the manager who went well and truly above and beyond.
"He organised a replacement machine to get delivered to me (on a Sunday of all days). He even rang me back afterwards ... and arranged all the pick-ups of the machines."
Kennards Hire Mitchell
Established way back in 1948, Kennards Hire is the largest family-owned equipment hire business across Australia and New Zealand.
This household name operates four branches in Canberra: Mitchell, Phillip, Fyshwick, and Belconnen. Each stocks a wide range of tool, equipment and vehicles for hire, including pieces suitable for DIY, residential, commercial and industrial use.
The Kennards Hire Mitchell team has plenty of happy testimonials from across the capital.
"Excellent service and quality machinery," Phil said in his review.
Dadwalz Rentals & Logistics
Operating across Canberra and beyond, Dadwalz Rentals & Logistics stocks a modern fleet of vans and trucks for short or long-term hire.
Owner Shaurya believes in friendly, efficient service. Customers consistently describe his vehicles as clean, tidy, and in top working order.
"Great hire company with the cheapest rates in town," Matt said online.
"I was given a near-new Pantek truck with a lift that worked great and made my move to Sydney a breeze."
ACT Truck Hire
Conveniently located in Mitchell, ACT Truck Hire helps Canberrans move house on their own terms.
The team stocks a fleet of Isuzu NNR and Mitsubishi Canter 515 trucks, 4.5 tonnes each, which are user-friendly and able to be driven on a regular car license.
All vehicles are air-conditioned, clean and carefully maintained, with satellite navigation and reverse cameras installed.
"Legendary service, beyond helpful especially for a first-time truck driver," Patrick said online.
If you’re looking for more information on hire companies in Canberra, you might like our other articles on the best excavation hire, van hire, bus, limousine and hummer hire, indoor plant hire, and skip bin hire and rubbish removal companies our city has to offer.
Your experience with truck hire in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the truck hire providers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does truck hire cost?
Truck hire costs in Canberra vary depending on the size of the vehicle, duration of the hire, and extras like insurance or kilometre allowances. You can expect prices to start from around $70–$120 per day for smaller trucks and increase for larger or long-term rentals.
Do I need a special licence to hire a truck?
Most truck hire companies in Canberra allow you to drive vehicles up to 4.5 tonnes with a standard car licence (C class). For anything larger, a Light Rigid (LR) or Medium Rigid (MR) licence may be required. Always check the licence requirements before booking.
What’s included in a standard truck hire?
A standard hire typically includes a set number of kilometres, basic insurance cover, and access to the vehicle for the agreed period. Extras like trolley hire, blankets, and fuel are usually charged separately.
Is insurance included when I hire a truck?
Basic insurance isusually included, but you may still have to pay an excess if there’s damage. Many truck hire companies offer excess reduction options for extra peace of mind. Be sure to read the terms carefully.
What should I check before returning a hire truck?
Before returning a hire truck, make sure it's refuelled (if required), clean, and undamaged. Check all equipment such as trolleys or straps are accounted for. Taking photos of the vehicle before and after use can also help protect you from any disputes.
Are one-way truck hires available in Canberra?
Some companies offer one-way truck hire, allowing you to pick up in Canberra and drop off in another city. Availability may be limited though, and additional fees may apply, so it’s best to confirm directly with the provider.
