Operations and logistics
Finding a yard for a plant hire business
When a new hire firm needs its own yard, what the site must have, planning and lease points to check, and a checklist for viewing.
Key takeaways
- Small start-ups can sometimes begin with secure storage before taking a full yard, if insurers agree.
- Pick a location close to customers and main roads, not just the cheapest land.
- The site needs hardstanding, security, safe loading space and room to grow.
- Check the planning use allows plant storage and hire before you sign.
- Negotiate lease length, break clauses and who pays for fencing and drainage.
Do you need a yard yet?
A yard is a fixed cost from day one. With two or three small machines you may be able to start with a secure compound, a shared yard or a farm unit, as long as your insurer accepts the security. Take a proper yard when you need space for loading, maintenance, more machines or staff.
Location
- Within your delivery radius, close to where most customers work.
- Quick access to main roads, avoiding narrow lanes, low bridges and weight limits.
- Not overlooked by houses that may complain about early starts and engine noise.
- Away from known theft hotspots where possible; ask local police and other yards.
What the site needs
| Requirement | Why |
|---|---|
| Hardstanding | Heavy machines and trailers sink on soft ground |
| Secure perimeter and gate | Insurers and theft prevention |
| Lighting and CCTV | Deterrence and evidence |
| Safe loading area | Level, clear, with room to turn a vehicle and trailer |
| Workshop or covered area | Servicing, repairs and attachment storage |
| Fuel and oil storage | Bunded tanks and spill kits to meet environmental rules |
| Office and welfare | Bookings, paperwork, toilet and washing |
| Wash-down area | Cleaning machines without polluting drains |
Planning and use
Check with the local planning authority that the site's permitted use covers storing and hiring out plant, and whether there are restrictions on hours or vehicle movements. Agricultural land, residential plots and some industrial units may need planning permission for a change of use. Ask before you sign, not after.
Lease terms and costs
- Rent, business rates, service charges and utilities.
- Lease length and break clauses: start short with an option to extend.
- Who pays for fencing, gates, hardstanding repairs and drainage.
- Permission to install CCTV, lighting, fuel tanks and signs.
- Dilapidations: what you must put back when you leave.
Viewing checklist
- Drive the route in with your vehicle and loaded trailer.
- Check ground condition after rain.
- Ask neighbouring businesses about break-ins.
- Check mobile signal for trackers and phones.
- Confirm power supply for lighting, CCTV and a workshop.
- Ask your insurer what security they need.
Then secure it properly: plant theft prevention.
FAQs
Common questions
Do I need a yard to start a plant hire business?
What does a plant hire yard need?
Do I need planning permission for a plant hire yard?
Keep going
Related guides
Theft prevention
Security, trackers, immobilisers, CESAR and key control.
Read guide →
Costs
Machines, transport, yard, insurance and the cash you need upfront.
Read guide →
Transporting plant
Trailer weights, licences, O-licences and load securing.
Read guide →
Plant hire insurance explained
The cover a hire company needs and the conditions that bite.
Read guide →
This guide is general information for people setting up a plant hire business in the UK. It is not legal, tax, insurance or financial advice. Rules and thresholds change, so check current guidance on GOV.UK and take advice from an accountant, solicitor or broker before acting.