Bobcat Equipment Insurance

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Compare Bobcat equipment insurance quotes from leading Australian insurers. Cover for skid steers, compact track loaders, mini excavators, telehandlers and all Bobcat plant. Free quotes from Shielded Insurance.

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Bobcat Equipment Insurance

Specialist insurance for Bobcat machinery across all model ranges in Australia.

Bobcat is one of the most recognised names in compact equipment worldwide, and in Australia the brand is synonymous with skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, mini excavators and telehandlers. From the S70 micro skid steer to the T870 compact track loader and the E85 excavator, Bobcat machines are used extensively in landscaping, residential construction, demolition, agriculture, waste management and hire fleets. With individual machines valued between $20,000 and $200,000 and many operators running multi-machine fleets, Bobcat equipment insurance provides essential protection against theft, accidental damage, fire and third party liability.

Bobcat Model Ranges and Insurance
Bobcat offers one of the most comprehensive compact equipment ranges available in Australia. Key model families include:

  • Skid Steer Loaders (S Series): From the S70 micro skid steer to the S850 large-frame model. The S450, S510, S590 and S770 are popular across landscaping, construction and agriculture.
  • Compact Track Loaders (T Series): From the T450 to the T870. The T590 and T770 are widely used in demolition, site preparation, landscaping and agricultural applications. Compact track loaders are increasingly preferred over wheeled skid steers on softer ground.
  • Mini Excavators (E Series): From the E10e electric micro excavator to the E85 midi excavator. The E17, E26, E35 and E50 are popular hire fleet machines and are used across residential, landscaping and utility projects.
  • Telehandlers (TL/V Series): Compact and mid-range telehandlers for construction, agriculture and industrial material handling.
  • Utility Vehicles (UV34): Compact utility vehicles for property management, agriculture and council operations.
  • Small Articulated Loaders (L Series): Compact loaders for nurseries, landscaping, stables and small-scale material handling.

Parts Availability and Repair Considerations
Bobcat's market presence in Australia ensures solid parts and service support:

  • Dealer Network: Clark Equipment is the Bobcat distributor in Australia, operating through a network of authorised dealers across all states and territories. Service and parts support is available nationally through metro and regional dealers.
  • Parts Supply: Bobcat's strong market share in compact equipment means common service, wear and repair parts are generally available ex-stock from major dealers. The popularity of Bobcat skid steers and compact track loaders ensures strong parts availability.
  • Attachment Ecosystem: Bobcat has one of the largest attachment ranges in the compact equipment market, with over 100 attachment types available. This versatility is a selling point but means each attachment must be considered for insurance purposes.
  • Bob-Dock System: Newer Bobcat machines feature the Bob-Dock attachment mounting system, which adds value to the machine and should be reflected in the sum insured.
  • Machine IQ Telematics: Bobcat's Machine IQ telematics system provides GPS location, machine utilisation data, geofencing and maintenance alerts. This data supports insurance claims and theft recovery.

Insurance Considerations Specific to Bobcat Equipment

  • High Theft Target: Bobcat skid steers, compact track loaders and mini excavators are among the most frequently stolen items of plant equipment in Australia. Their compact size, high resale value and easy transport make them prime targets for opportunistic and organised theft.
  • Attachment Values Add Up: Bobcat operators frequently own multiple attachments including buckets, pallet forks, augers, trenchers, planers, sweepers, grapples and breakers. The combined value of attachments can exceed the value of the base machine. Each must be listed and valued on the policy.
  • Hire Fleet Staple: Bobcat equipment is a core part of most general hire fleets in Australia. Hire operators face elevated risks from multiple operators, frequent transport and dispersed locations. Policies must address these specific hire exposures.
  • Operator Training: Bobcat skid steers and compact track loaders require proper operator training. Untrained operators are more likely to cause tip-over, collision and property damage incidents. Insurers may require evidence of operator competency.
  • Versatile Use, Varied Risk: Bobcat machines are used across many industries from landscaping to demolition to agriculture. Each use carries a different risk profile, and all uses should be disclosed to the insurer.

Indicative Pricing Guide
As a general guide, comprehensive Bobcat equipment insurance in Australia is typically priced at 2% to 4% of the sum insured value per year, reflecting the elevated theft risk in the compact equipment segment:

  • Mini Excavator - E17 to E50 ($25K-$90K): $600 - $2,700 per year
  • Midi Excavator - E55 to E85 ($80K-$150K): $2,000 - $4,500 per year
  • Skid Steer Loader - S450 to S850 ($35K-$120K): $900 - $3,600 per year
  • Compact Track Loader - T450 to T870 ($50K-$150K): $1,200 - $4,500 per year
  • Telehandler ($80K-$200K): $2,000 - $6,000 per year

Key Considerations for Bobcat Equipment Owners

  • Theft Prevention Is Essential: GPS tracking, engine immobilisers, cab locks and secure overnight storage are critical for all Bobcat equipment. Some insurers will not provide cover for compact equipment without minimum security standards. Theft of Bobcat machines from open sites and during transport is a persistent problem across Australia.
  • List Every Attachment: Bobcat's extensive attachment range means operators often accumulate significant attachment inventories. Maintain a current list of all attachments with accurate replacement values and provide this to your broker at each renewal.
  • Trailer Security: Bobcat compact equipment is frequently transported on trailers. Ensure trailers are also insured and secured with hitch locks and wheel locks. Theft of trailers with machines loaded is a common scenario.
  • Agreed Value Policies: Bobcat equipment holds reasonable residual values, particularly for popular models like the T590, T770 and E35. Agreed value policies ensure you receive a fair payout in the event of a total loss.
  • Disclosure of All Uses: If your Bobcat is used across multiple industries or applications, disclose all uses to your insurer. A machine used for demolition has a very different risk profile to one used for landscaping, and non-disclosure can affect claims.

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Protection for third party property damage or personal injury.

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Income whilst your machinery is out of action.

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Road Risk Liability

Third party cover for equipment on public roads.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about Bobcat Equipment Insurance and General Enquiries

How much does Bobcat equipment insurance cost in Australia?

Premiums are typically 2% to 4% of the sum insured per year. A Bobcat T770 compact track loader valued at $120,000 might cost $2,800 to $4,500 per year for comprehensive cover. Theft risk and security measures are major pricing factors. Request a free quote through Shielded for an accurate indication.

Does Bobcat insurance cover theft of skid steers and track loaders?

Yes. Comprehensive policies include theft cover for all Bobcat equipment. However, compact equipment faces high theft risk, so insurers typically require GPS tracking, immobilisers, cab locks and secure storage. Higher excesses may apply if minimum security is not in place.

Are Bobcat attachments covered under the insurance policy?

Attachments such as buckets, forks, augers, trenchers, breakers, sweepers and grapples must be individually listed on your policy with accurate values. Standard policies cover the base machine only. The combined value of Bobcat attachments can be substantial, so ensure every item is listed.

Can I insure a fleet of Bobcat machines under one policy?

Yes. Fleet policies covering multiple Bobcat machines under a single arrangement are common and can be more cost-effective. This is particularly suitable for hire companies and contractors running multiple skid steers, track loaders and mini excavators. Shielded can arrange fleet cover across our insurer panel.

Does Bobcat Machine IQ telematics help with insurance?

Yes. Machine IQ provides GPS location, geofencing alerts and machine data that support theft recovery and insurance claims. Active GPS tracking is increasingly expected by underwriters for compact equipment and may attract premium consideration.

Is my Bobcat covered while being transported on a trailer?

Transit cover protects your Bobcat equipment while being transported between sites on a trailer or truck. Some policies include transit as standard, while others require it as an add-on. Ensure both the machine and the trailer are covered, as theft during transport is common.

Do I need to disclose if my Bobcat is used for demolition?

Yes. Demolition use carries a higher risk profile than landscaping or general construction. All intended uses must be disclosed to the insurer. Failure to disclose demolition or other high-risk uses can result in claims being denied.

Which insurers cover Bobcat equipment in Australia?

Shielded compares quotes from specialist plant insurers including GT Insurance, Chubb, CGU, Zurich, QBE, Vero and Hollard. The right insurer depends on your equipment type, fleet size and claims history. As brokers, we find the most competitive and suitable cover for your Bobcat machinery.

What types of machinery and equipment can be insured?

We provide cover for a wide range of plant and equipment including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, cranes, forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, telehandlers, concrete pumps, graders, rollers, compactors, generators, and specialist mining and forestry equipment. Whether you own a single machine or manage a fleet, we tailor policies to match your operation.

What does plant and machinery insurance cover?

Plant and machinery insurance typically covers accidental damage, fire, theft, malicious damage, storm and flood damage. You can also add public liability, road risk liability for registered machines, downtime or loss of use cover, hired-in plant cover, and personal accident cover for operators. Policies can be tailored for own use, dry hire or wet hire operations.

How much does plant and machinery insurance cost in Australia?

Premiums are typically calculated as a percentage of the sum insured value, usually between 1.5% and 4% depending on the equipment type, use, and claims history. A $100,000 excavator might cost $2,000 to $4,000 per year for comprehensive cover. Fleet policies covering multiple machines can often achieve better rates. Request a free quote through Shielded for an accurate indication.

What is the difference between dry hire and wet hire insurance?

Dry hire means you hire out equipment without an operator - the hirer is responsible for operating the machine. Wet hire means the equipment comes with an operator. The insurance requirements differ significantly. Dry hire owners need material damage cover on the equipment plus hired-out plant liability. Wet hire operators also need public liability, workers compensation for operators, and potentially road risk cover.

Can I insure hired-in plant and equipment?

Yes. Hired-in plant cover protects equipment you hire from a third party while it is in your care, custody and control. Most hire agreements make the hirer responsible for damage to the equipment. Without hired-in plant cover, you could be liable for the full replacement cost of a machine that is damaged or stolen on your site.

Do I need road risk cover for my plant and machinery?

If your equipment is registered for road use and travels on public roads (e.g., rollers, graders, mobile cranes), you need road risk or third party property damage cover for when the machine is in transit. Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance covers personal injury, but it does not cover property damage to other vehicles or infrastructure.

Who do I contact to make a claim?

Contact us at Shielded Insurance on 1800 97 98 99 or reach out to your insurer directly. We recommend notifying us as soon as possible after an incident, documenting the damage with photos, and securing the equipment to prevent further loss. Our team will guide you through the claims process.

What is downtime or loss of use cover?

Downtime cover (also called loss of use or hire cost reimbursement) provides a daily or weekly payment when your equipment is off-hire or unable to work following an insured event. This helps cover the cost of hiring a replacement machine or compensates for lost revenue while your equipment is being repaired.

Which insurers does Shielded compare for plant insurance?

We compare quotes from specialist plant and equipment insurers including GT Insurance, Chubb, CGU, Zurich, QBE, Vero, Hollard, and others depending on the type of equipment and use. The best insurer depends on whether the machinery is used for own work, dry hire, wet hire, mining, or construction. As brokers, we find the most competitive and suitable cover for your operation.

Can I get a fleet policy for multiple machines?

Yes. Fleet policies covering multiple pieces of equipment under one policy can simplify administration, provide consistent renewal dates, and often achieve better premium rates than insuring each machine individually. Fleet policies are suitable for contractors, plant hire companies and mining operators with multiple assets.