Starting a machinery hire business can feel like a big step, especially if you have not spent years around excavators, skid steers or compact earthmoving equipment.
That is why training and support are such an important part of the Diggermate model.
Diggermate franchisees are not expected to figure everything out alone. From practical machine training to safety, customer handovers, systems, local marketing and ongoing business support, the goal is to help owners build confidence in both the equipment and the day-to-day running of the business.
This practical training course was originally held in 2021, but the reason behind it is still highly relevant today: Diggermate franchisees need to feel capable, supported and prepared to operate their business safely and professionally.
Practical Machinery Training for Franchise Owners
In May 2024, Diggermate ran a 2-day practical training program for franchise owners focused on excavator and skid steer operation.
The course gave franchisees time on the machines, guidance from experienced trainers and a chance to sharpen their operating skills in a hands-on environment.
For new owners, this type of training matters because machinery hire is not just about owning equipment. Franchisees need to understand how the machines work, how to explain them to customers, how to manage safety expectations and how to keep each hire running smoothly.

How Diggermate Training Helps Franchisees Build Confidence With Machinery
Starting a machinery hire business can feel like a big step, especially if you have not spent years around excavators, skid steers or compact earthmoving equipment.
That is why training and support are such an important part of the Diggermate model.
Diggermate franchisees are not expected to figure everything out alone. From practical machine training to safety, customer handovers, systems, local marketing and ongoing business support, the goal is to help owners build confidence in both the equipment and the day-to-day running of the business.
This practical training course was originally held in 2021, but the reason behind it is still highly relevant today: Diggermate franchisees need to feel capable, supported and prepared to operate their business safely and professionally.
Practical Machinery Training for Franchise Owners
In April 2021, Diggermate ran a 2-day practical training program for franchise owners focused on excavator and skid steer operation.
The course gave franchisees time on the machines, guidance from experienced trainers and a chance to sharpen their operating skills in a hands-on environment.
For new owners, this type of training matters because machinery hire is not just about owning equipment. Franchisees need to understand how the machines work, how to explain them to customers, how to manage safety expectations and how to keep each hire running smoothly.
Why Training Matters in an Equipment Hire Franchise
A Diggermate business involves more than taking bookings.
Franchisees may need to help customers choose the right machine, complete handovers, understand attachments, manage equipment checks, respond to basic questions and keep their fleet in good working order.
Practical training helps franchisees build confidence in areas such as:
- Machine basics
- Safe operating principles
- Excavator and skid steer familiarisation
- Equipment checks before and after hire
- Customer handover processes
- Understanding common attachments
- Communicating clearly with DIY customers and tradies
- Knowing when to ask for support
The more confident a franchisee becomes with the equipment, the easier it is to deliver a professional customer experience.
Training Is Only One Part of the Support System
Practical machine training is important, but it is only one part of the broader Diggermate support structure.
Franchisees also receive support around the systems and processes that help the business operate day to day. This can include support with booking processes, digital systems, local marketing, customer communication, business updates and network learning.
That combination matters because a successful hire business needs both sides working together:
| Area | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Machine knowledge | Helps franchisees understand the equipment and support customers properly |
| Safety and handover processes | Helps create a more professional and consistent hire experience |
| Booking systems | Helps manage enquiries, bookings, payments and customer details |
| Local marketing | Helps create awareness and generate enquiries in the local area |
| Ongoing support | Helps owners keep improving after launch |
| Franchise network | Gives owners access to other people who are building similar businesses |
Do You Need Machinery Experience to Start?
You do not necessarily need to come from a machinery hire background to explore a Diggermate franchise.
What matters more is having the right attitude, being willing to learn, following the systems and taking the business seriously.
Some franchisees come from trade, construction, transport, mining or machinery backgrounds. Others are practical people who are new to hire but are prepared to learn. The training and support structure is designed to help owners build their knowledge over time.
For a deeper breakdown, read: No Experience? How Diggermate Training and Support Works.
Learning With Other Franchisees
One of the benefits of training as part of a franchise network is that owners are not learning in isolation.
Training sessions, conferences and network updates give franchisees the opportunity to learn from the Diggermate team and from other owners who are dealing with similar customers, equipment and local business challenges.
That shared learning can be especially valuable in the early stages, when new owners are still building their confidence with the machines, systems and customer conversations.
What This Means for Prospective Franchisees
If you are considering a Diggermate franchise, this training course is a good example of how the model is built around practical support.
You are not just buying into a brand name. You are stepping into a business model that includes equipment, systems, training, marketing support and a network of people who understand the machinery hire space.
That does not remove the need for effort. Franchisees still need to work the system, respond to customers, maintain their equipment and build their local reputation. But the support structure is there to help owners get started with more confidence than they would have if they were trying to build everything from scratch.
Related Diggermate Franchise Resources
- No Experience? How Diggermate Training and Support Works
- Diggermate vs Starting Your Own Mini Excavator Hire Business
- How Diggermate’s Booking System Helps Franchisees Save Time
- How Diggermate Helps Franchisees Get Leads
- Diggermate Franchise Reviews: Real Owner Stories
Want to Learn More About the Diggermate Franchise Model?
If you are considering starting a machinery hire business and want to understand the training, systems and support behind Diggermate, the next step is to get the latest franchise information.
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You can also learn more about whether the model is the right fit for you here:





