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Home/Fleet and equipment/Pre-delivery checks

Fleet and equipment

Plant hire pre-delivery inspection checklist

27 checks to run before every machine leaves the yard. Tick them off on a phone; progress saves in this browser and resets for the next machine.

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Checklist specPHSUG-24

Checks27

Stages7

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UpdatedOct 2026

A pre-delivery inspection protects the customer, your machine and your deposit. If something goes wrong on site, a recorded check with photos shows the machine left in good order. Adapt this list to each machine type and the manufacturer's daily checks.

TIP

Use "Reset" after each machine. Most booking systems can store the completed check and photos against the hire; see booking systems.

PROGRESS0 / 27

STAGE 01Booking details

Machine, attachments and accessories match the booking.Delivery address, access and ground conditions confirmed with the customer.Operator details recorded; card or competence check planned at handover.Deposit or account status confirmed.

STAGE 02Fluids and leaks

Engine oil, coolant and hydraulic oil at correct levels.No fresh leaks under the machine or around rams and hoses.Fuel tank full (white diesel or approved fuel); level recorded.AdBlue topped up if fitted.

STAGE 03Structure and tracks

No new cracks or damage to boom, dipper, frame or cab.Tracks or tyres in good condition and correctly tensioned or inflated.Pins and bushes greased; no excessive play.Bucket teeth and cutting edges serviceable.

STAGE 04Safety devices

Seat belt, seat switch and isolation lever working.Beacon, travel alarm, horn and lights working.ROPS/FOPS undamaged; glass intact; mirrors and cameras clean.Quick hitch locks and warning device working; attachment secure.Fire extinguisher present if specified.

STAGE 05Function test

Starts and runs normally; no warning lights.All hydraulic functions smooth, including auxiliary circuits.Travel and slew smooth in both directions; brakes and slew lock working.

STAGE 06Documents and records

Current PUWER inspection record; LOLER report if lifting equipment.Operator's manual and familiarisation sheet in the cab.Tracker and immobiliser working; keys and immobiliser code ready.Hours recorded and photos of all four sides taken.

STAGE 07Ready to go

Machine cleaned and decals visible.Loaded and secured per the load-securing procedure.Delivery note printed or ready on the driver's phone.

FAQs

Common questions

What is a pre-delivery inspection in plant hire?+

A recorded check of a machine before it goes out on hire: fluids, leaks, structure, safety devices, a function test, documents, fuel, cleaning and photos.

Who should carry out pre-delivery checks?+

A competent member of the yard team or the driver, following a written checklist for each machine type, with the result recorded against the hire.

Why take photos before delivery?+

Photos of all four sides and the hour meter show the condition at handover and settle most damage disputes when the machine comes back.

Keep going

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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.

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PUWER and LOLER
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This guide is run by the same team as Plant Hire Finance, PlantClassifieds and Rental Desk Pro. Where a guide mentions one of those services we say so, and we list alternatives. Plant Hire Finance is a finance introducer, not a lender or broker. Nothing on this site is legal, tax, insurance or financial advice.