Understanding the Difference: Hardstands, Jack Stands, Height Adjustable Stands & Transport Stands
In the heavy industries and mining sectors, safety and efficiency rely heavily on the right support equipment. Whether you're servicing machinery, stabilising loads, or preparing equipment for transport, choosing the right type of stand is critical.
At Ricbuilt, we specialise in fabricating hardstands, jack stands, height-adjustable stands, and transport stands — each designed to meet specific operational needs. Here's a clear breakdown of what sets each one apart:
1. Hardstands
Best for: Long-term static support on heavy-duty equipment.
Hardstands are engineered to provide robust, non-adjustable support for parked or idle equipment. These stands are typically custom-fabricated to exact height specifications and are often used during maintenance shutdowns or storage.
Key Features:
Fixed height for consistent load support
Extremely stable and durable
Ideal for permanent or semi-permanent applications
Minimal maintenance required
Ricbuilt's hardstands are constructed to handle high load capacities and designed in compliance with safety standards, making them a reliable choice for mining and industrial operations.
2. Jack Stands
Best for: Supporting loads after lifting during maintenance.
Jack stands are used in conjunction with hydraulic jacks to safely support a machine or vehicle after it has been lifted. Unlike hardstands, they’re often portable and lightweight, making them a go-to solution for mobile field servicing.
Key Features:
Paired with jacks — not for lifting on their own
Safety locking pins or screw mechanisms for secure load hold
Available in a range of weight capacities and heights
Ricbuilt designs jack stands that meet site-specific safety requirements and are built tough for harsh Australian conditions.
3. Height-Adjustable Stands
Best for: Versatile support where load heights vary.
Height-adjustable stands offer flexibility in elevation, making them ideal for situations where ground conditions or machinery clearance levels change. These are particularly useful for aligning equipment, temporary bracing, or component removal.
Key Features:
Adjustable height range using screw jacks or pin-lock mechanisms
Precision alignment and leveling capabilities
Designed for easy setup and repositioning
At Ricbuilt, our height-adjustable stands are engineered for stability under load and built with robust materials to withstand high usage cycles.
4. Transport Stands
Best for: Securing and stabilising equipment during transportation.
Transport stands are built to secure heavy components or machinery in place during transit, reducing the risk of shifting loads or damage. These stands are often custom-built to match the contours and dimensions of the specific equipment being moved.
Key Features:
Designed for mobility and stability
May include lashing points or cradles for securement
Built to comply with load restraint guidelines for road and mine haulage
Ricbuilt’s transport stands are trusted across mine sites and workshops for ensuring safe equipment movement from A to B — whether by truck, trailer, or float.
Why Choose Ricbuilt?
With over 25 years of experience in fabricating high-quality steel support systems, Ricbuilt delivers purpose-built stands that meet the strictest Australian standards. Whether your priority is stability, adjustability, or mobility, we have the solution — and if not off the shelf, we’ll fabricate it to your exact specs.
Looking for the right stand for your operation?
Let’s talk about how Ricbuilt can support your project needs with safe, certified, and site-ready solutions.
admin@ricbuilt.com.au
07 4955 5247
www.ricbuilt.com.au