Mobile Plant and Equipment (MPE) is at the heart of Australia's construction, civil, mining and agricultural industries. From mini excavators and dump trucks through to dozers and drilling rigs, mobile plant supports the movement and handling of materials on a wide variety of job sites, often in demanding environments.
These machines are used by a broad range of customers, including owner-operators, contractors, plant hire businesses, quarry operators and farmers. What they all have in common is a need for reliable protection that reflects how they use their machines, and for support when something goes wrong.
We know the gear, and we know how to keep it moving
One of the key differences in our approach is that we genuinely know and understand the machinery our customers rely on. Our in-house repair managers and assessors are trade-qualified, many with backgrounds in heavy machinery, construction and civil contracting.
“We've got a team of people who know how these machines work, how they’re used on site and what it takes to get them back up and running,” said Brandon Egan, one of NTI’s Repair Managers. “Because we’ve come from the industry, we don’t just look at the damage. We’re looking at the bigger picture – what’s needed to keep that machine earning income for the customer.”
That experience is critical, not just during the repair process, but right from the start when we assess the machine and determine what happens next.
Hands-on assessments by our skilled team
After a claim is lodged, we carry out an initial assessment to determine whether the machine is repairable or a total loss, and to understand its market value. This includes:
- Identifying the machine and confirming what’s on policy
- Reviewing its age, service history and hours worked
- Understanding what optional features or attachments are fitted
- Evaluating the cost and practicality of repairs
- Factoring in wear and tear, which may impact market value
We also carefully review the quote from the repairer and compare that with what we’ve seen on site. Our goal is to ensure a fair and accurate decision is made that aligns with the policy and supports the best possible outcome for the customer.
“Some machines have specialist fittings or modified components that can affect both the cost and timeframe of repair,” said Brandon. “We look at the full scope, and we talk to the customer and their broker, so there are no surprises.”
On-site, in-person, and focused on the right outcome
When practical, our repair managers travel to site and conduct a hands-on assessment of the damaged equipment. This could be on a mine site, civil project, holding yard or workshop.
During an assessment, we carry out a detailed inspection of the equipment, from the cabin and control systems through to hydraulics, structural elements and undercarriage. We’re also looking at wear levels, inclusions like GPS or site-spec safety gear, and whether any repairs require certification or specialist handling.
Once the machine has been inspected, we match the damage with the quote, assess viability, and decide next steps. This might be arranging repairs, sourcing alternate parts, or settling the claim as a total loss if that’s the most appropriate path.
Here’s a walkthrough of what we look for during a typical assessment of an excavator:
Finding solutions that save time and money
A key advantage for customers is our ability to offer practical, cost-effective repair options that other insurance providers may not consider. We have long-standing relationships with both OEM dealers and specialist repairers, as well as access to parts through the NTI Parts team.
“In one case, we needed a major component worth $90,000 and the dealer could only supply half the parts,” said Brandon. “Through our network connections, we found a complete unit locally that was ready to go at a much lower cost. This kept the claims cost down and reduced the downtime for our customer by a number of weeks.”
Another recent example involved an excavator cabin that was going to take 12 months to replace. “We sourced a quality used cabin, refurbished it, and had the customer back in business in just six weeks. They were thrilled with the outcome, and because the repairs were authorised by us, they’re backed by the NTI lifetime guarantee.”
This flexibility is part of what makes our claims process different. We’re not tied to one solution or one supplier. We look for the right fix for that customer’s situation.
Expertise when it matters most
MPE customers don’t just want an insurance policy. They want to know that when something goes wrong, they’ll have people who understand their business, understand their equipment, and who will go the extra mile to get them moving again.
As NTI’s Product Manager for Mobile Plant, David Kidd puts it, “Our cover isn’t just strong on paper, it’s supported by a national network of experts and repairers who live and breathe mobile plant. That combination of experience and service is what delivers better outcomes.”
When making decisions about our insurance, consider the PDS and TMD at https://www.nti.com.au/. National Transport Insurance is an equal joint venture administered on behalf of the insurers (CGU Insurance ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 & Vero Insurance ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859) by its manager NTI Limited ABN 84 000 746 109 AFSL 237246.