Rammer Hire in Godstone, Surrey —
Compact Clay in Any Trench Near You
The trench is backfilled with clay and it needs compacting layer by layer. A petrol trench rammer from our Godstone depot does what a plate compactor cannot. Call 01883 743 322.
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A rammer compacts what a plate compactor cannot reach — trenches, confined spaces, narrow strips alongside foundations. It delivers high-impact compaction to cohesive soils that vibration alone cannot consolidate. If you are searching for rammer hire near me in Surrey, our Godstone depot has the upright rammer available at short notice. Call 01883 743 322.
Upright Rammer — Specifications
The petrol-powered jumping jack rammer is the industry standard for trench backfill and cohesive soil compaction. It delivers high-impact force through a rapid up-and-down action that drives material together vertically. On Weald Clay south of the M25 — which is cohesive — the rammer is more effective than a plate compactor. Impact force consolidates clay in a way that horizontal vibration does not.
When to Hire a Rammer Instead of a Plate Compactor
The choice depends on soil type and space. A rammer uses impact force — it hits the ground repeatedly. A plate uses vibration to consolidate granular particles. Clay does not respond to vibration. Compact clay with a plate and you get surface compaction but the material below stays loose. The rammer drives compaction deeper.
If unsure which your job needs, call 01883 743 322 and describe the material. We will confirm the right tool.
For full specifications on our rammer range, browse the Coppard online catalogue.
Rammer Hire for Groundworks Across Surrey
Surrey groundworks regularly involve Weald Clay — one of the most challenging soils for compaction. For drainage and utilities trenches, clay backfill needs placing and compacting in 150mm layers. The rammer handles this efficiently — one pass per layer, working back from the far end.
For foundation backfill around footings and retaining walls, the rammer compacts close to structures where a plate cannot safely operate. The narrow foot gets within 100mm of a block or concrete face. Looking for rammer hire near me? Contractors across Redhill, Reigate, Oxted, Caterham, Crawley, Dorking and Sevenoaks hire from our Godstone depot regularly.
Collecting and Using the Rammer
The rammer is compact enough to collect in a van or estate car — around 68kg upright. At collection, the yard team runs through the start procedure. Gloves make a difference on a long stint. The weekly rate represents better value than multiple day hires for longer trench runs.
Why Hire a Rammer from Coppard?
54 years supplying compaction plant. We stock rammers, plate compactors and rollers — the full compaction range. If your job needs more than one type, we supply them together from the same account. Call 01883 743 322.
Searching for the best rammer hire near me? Coppard’s Godstone depot covers Godstone, Redhill, Reigate, Oxted, Caterham, Sevenoaks, Westerham, Crawley, Horley, Dorking, Leatherhead, Lingfield, Guildford and South London. Call 01883 743 322.
For the full range of Plant & Machinery Hire available from our Godstone depot, visit our Plant & Machinery Hire page.
Browse the full Rammer Hire catalogue on the Coppard website — full specifications, models and current availability.
Frequently Asked Questions — Rammer Hire
What is the difference between a rammer and a plate compactor?
A rammer uses impact for cohesive soils like clay. A plate uses vibration for granular materials like sub-base and gravel. For trench backfill in Weald Clay, you need a rammer. For driveways and paving sub-base, a plate. Many groundworks jobs need both.
How deep does a rammer compact per layer?
Compact clay in 150mm layers. Place 150mm, ram until the foot no longer sinks, then add the next layer. Trying to compact thicker layers leaves the bottom loose. For granular material, 200mm layers are acceptable.
When should I hire a rammer instead of a plate compactor?
A rammer is generally the better choice for compacting soil and backfill in narrow trenches, around foundations and in confined areas where a wider plate compactor cannot work effectively. Plate compactors are normally better suited to larger, flatter areas of granular material such as Type 1 sub-base. Tell Coppard’s Godstone team what material you are compacting, the width of the working area and the depth of the backfill, and they can advise whether a rammer or plate compactor is the right machine for the job.
Do I need training?
No formal licence is required. The yard team will brief you on safe operation at collection. Key points: steel toecap boots, keep machine upright, work in layers. Ear defenders recommended for extended use.
Can I hire a rammer and plate compactor together?
Yes. Both from the same Godstone depot, same account. Many groundworks jobs need a rammer for trenches and a plate for open areas. Call 01883 743 322 and we will have both ready.
Need the best rammer hire near you in Surrey or Kent?
Call 01883 743 322. Same-day collection from Godstone. Delivery across Godstone, Redhill, Reigate, Oxted, Caterham, Sevenoaks, Westerham, Crawley, Horley, Dorking, Leatherhead, Lingfield, Guildford and South London. Get Plant on Site Tomorrow.
Need Rammer Hire near you in Surrey or Kent?
Call 01883 743 322. Same-day collection from Godstone. Delivery across Surrey, Redhill, Reigate, Oxted, Caterham, Crawley, Dorking and Sevenoaks and beyond.
