HSS is the UK tool-and-plant hire specialist β€” worth comparing when you need contractor-grade kit for days or weeks (power tools, access platforms, diggers) without buying. Good for tradespeople who value branch pickup or scheduled delivery rather than one-off consumer purchases.

Best forShort-term hire of power tools, plant and access equipment
Delivery timeNext-day delivery available in many areas (branch-dependent)
Return windowHire items returned at end of hire period; purchases handled via branch/online returns
Payment methodsCard payments online; trade accounts/invoicing available for businesses
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Daily β†’ weekly pricing

Daily hire rates typically drop for multi-day or weekly bookings β€” rent longer to cut the per-day cost.

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Branch pickup or delivery

Nationwide branches let you collect locally or book delivery to site β€” useful for tight schedules.

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Trade accounts

Business accounts and invoicing simplify repeat jobs and make quoting easier for contractors.

01

What HSS is known for

HSS is primarily a hire fleet: think contractor-grade power tools, compaction plates, generators, access platforms and small excavators. Their strength is breadth β€” from handheld drills to powered access and plant machinery β€” plus a network of branches so you can pick up or swap kit locally rather than waiting on specialist suppliers.

power drill closeup
02

How to get the best price

With hire shops the trick is time: weekly or multi-day bookings usually lower the daily rate, so price per day falls the longer you keep kit. Always compare collection vs delivery charges and ask for a trade quote if you’re a repeat customer. HSS lists day/week rates online β€” get a written quote and check for seasonal weekend or project offers before you book.

tools packed van
03

Shipping, returns and trust signals

HSS schedules delivery windows for site drops and offers branch collection for immediate needs. Hire items are safety-checked and must be returned at the end of the hire period; damage charges apply if kit isn’t returned in working order. For purchased items, return processes are handled through the branch or online β€” check the product page or booking confirmation for specifics.

delivery van parked

Top categories

Power toolsAccess & scissor liftsPlant machineryGeneratorsCompaction & breakersLandscaping equipmentSite lighting & heatersHand tools & accessories

Verdict

Worth it when

  • You need contractor-grade equipment without the capital outlay β€” hire high-spec kit by the day or week.
  • You want fast local pickup or scheduled site delivery from a nationwide branch network.
  • You run a trade account and prefer invoicing and repeat-booking discounts.

Skip it if

  • You plan to use a tool long-term β€” buying is usually cheaper than repeated hire.
  • You need guaranteed instant availability of a rare specialist item β€” some kit can be scarce at busy times.

FAQ

Does HSS match competitor hire rates?
HSS does not advertise a public price-match scheme. For big projects, request written quotes from HSS and competitors and ask your local branch if they can offer a competing rate for extended hires.
When are the cheapest times to hire?
Multi-day and weekly bookings reduce the daily rate. Off-peak weeks and longer hires usually give the best per-day pricing β€” always compare week vs day pricing and factor in delivery/collection costs.
How do returns and damage charges work for hires?
Hire items must be returned at the agreed time or you incur extra days. Equipment is checked on return; damaged or missing parts can lead to repair or replacement charges β€” inspect kit on pickup and note issues on the job ticket.