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Construction projects rarely stand still for long. Even when workloads ease off briefly, expectations around delivery, safety and efficiency keep moving forward. As we look ahead further into 2026, one thing is becoming increasingly familiar across the industry: the way contractors think about tool hire and access hire equipment is changing, and it’s happening earlier than it used to. For many teams, hire decisions aren’t something to deal with once work is already underway. They’re now part of early planning conversations, alongside programmes, site conditions and sequencing. At Smiths Hire, we’re here to support those early decisions, helping teams get the right tools and access equipment lined up from the start.
Why hire planning is getting more attention
It’s no secret that most sites are under more pressure than ever at the moment. Programmes overlap, budgets are tighter, and there’s less room for disruption once work starts, which means that leaving hire decisions until the last minute can quickly limit options and add unnecessary stress.
Tool hire like that we offer here at Smiths Hire gives you and your fellow contractors flexibility, but only if the right equipment is available when it’s needed. When choices are left too late, teams often end up adapting the job around what’s on hand, rather than using equipment that suits the task. Planning ahead avoids that compromise and helps keep things running smoothly once site activity picks up.
Access hire equipment is playing a bigger role on-site
Working at height is nothing new, but the demands placed on access equipment continue to grow. Sites are tighter, tasks are more varied, and teams often spend longer working from the same machine. All of that means access hire equipment needs to be reliable, versatile and right for the environment it’s being used in.
Scissor lifts remain a firm favourite for steady work at height, especially indoors or on prepared surfaces. They’re straightforward to use, stable underfoot and ideal for fit-outs, maintenance and warehouse work where teams need to stay productive for long periods.
When reach or positioning is more challenging, boom lifts make a real difference. Articulated and telescopic options allow operators to get into awkward areas without constant repositioning. Compact electric and hybrid machines are increasingly popular indoors, while rough terrain models continue to earn their place on outdoor sites where conditions aren’t always predictable.
Having access to a broad access hire range means teams can choose the right machine from the outset, rather than making do later on.
The difference between planning ahead and reacting
As demand for tool hire and access equipment increases, certain machines are always in high demand. These are the lifts and platforms contractors rely on day in, day out because they’re proven, familiar and dependable.
When those requirements are identified early, it’s far easier to secure what’s needed and plan work around it. Leave it too late, and availability can start to shape decisions instead. That’s usually when programmes need adjusting, and site teams spend time chasing equipment rather than getting on with the job.
Working with a hire partner like us at Smiths Hire who understands these patterns makes a noticeable difference. It keeps expectations realistic and helps everyone stay one step ahead.
Supporting projects with the right access hire partner
At Smiths Hire, we’ve been supporting construction projects for over 50 years, so we see these patterns every day. We’re proud to offer one of the UK’s largest fleets of powered access equipment, with a wide access hire range that includes scissor lifts, cherry pickers, vertical mast lifts and low-level access platforms.
With 19 tool hire depots across the North West and nationwide next-day delivery, we’re set up to support projects wherever they’re happening. All of our equipment is well-maintained, and our team is always on hand to offer straightforward advice on selecting the right access hire equipment for the job.
One month into 2026, and one thing that hasn’t changed is the fact that projects run better when hiring is planned properly. With the right tool hire partner in place, access equipment becomes one less thing to worry about, letting your team focus on the work in front of them.
If you’d like help with your upcoming access hire or tool hire requirements, our friendly team at Smiths Hire is always happy to talk things through. Give us a call on 0333 323 2100 and we’ll be happy to help!
