Compaction Equipment Hire

Whether you're laying a patio, preparing a sub-base for block paving, backfilling a trench or finishing a driveway, the right compaction equipment makes the difference between a job that lasts and one that sinks. HSS hires a full range of compaction plant for trade, self-build and DIY use, with free delivery on hundreds of items and nationwide click & collect from over 250 branches.

What's available to hire

Our compaction range covers every common ground prep job:

• Wacker plates (forward plate compactors) — the workhorse for paving, driveways and sub-base compaction over sand, gravel and hardcore. Available in petrol and electric, in weights from around 50kg up to 200kg+ for heavier sub-bases.
• Reversible plate compactors — heavier-duty units that compact in both directions, ideal for deeper lifts and larger areas.
• Trench rammers (upright rammers / "jumping jacks") — narrow-footprint compactors built for cohesive soils and confined spaces like service trenches and footings.
• Pedestrian rollers and tandem rollers — for asphalt, large driveways and paths where a plate would be too slow.

Choosing the right compactor

For block paving and slabs over a sand bed, a 50–80kg Wacker plate is usually the right call. Sub-bases of MOT Type 1 or hardcore generally need 80–120kg+ for proper compaction in 100mm lifts. For trenches under 600mm wide or any cohesive (clay-heavy) soil, switch to a trench rammer — plates don't develop enough downward force on cohesive material. Asphalt and tarmac repairs call for a roller rather than a plate.