What HSS offers
At HSS you can hire or buy a wide variety of tools, equipment, and supplies — from power tools, sanding and fixing gear, concreting and compaction machines, to heating, pumping, access equipment, drying, and site-preparation kits. Their catalogue covers everything you might need for DIY projects, renovation work, building jobs, garden makeovers, or professional construction tasks.
HSS also offers flexibility: whether you need to rent a drill for a day, hire heavy-duty machinery for a week, or purchase hand tools and fixtures — the service adapts to both occasional DIYers and trade professionals.
What stands out about HSS’s offering
HSS has a long history — the brand traces back to 1957 when it first opened a shop dedicated to tool hire. Over the decades it has grown to become one of the UK’s most established suppliers of tools, equipment, and hire services. This heritage gives HSS deep experience in understanding what both DIY users and trade professionals need.
One important feature of HSS is the choice between hire and buy — for many tools and equipment, users can decide whether to rent (ideal for one-off jobs) or purchase (for regular use), offering flexibility and cost-efficiency depending on the project.
HSS also combines convenience with coverage: their network spans hundreds of outlets across the UK, giving wide geographic access.
What you can find on the HSS website
On HSS you can:
- Browse through many categories: heating, concreting and compaction, sanding & fixing, pumping & drying, power tools, access equipment, general building tools and equipment.
- Choose between hire or purchase depending on your needs — the site supports both, making it suitable for small DIY jobs or larger construction projects.
- Use delivery or click & collect services — including same-day delivery or quick “1-hour click & collect” for many items.
- Access additional services beyond tools: equipment hire, site-equipment, and other support, making HSS a one-stop shop for project requirements.
How HSS differs from other tool and equipment brands
- History and trust: With origins in 1957, HSS is one of the original, most established tool-hire companies in the UK, offering decades of experience and a proven track record.
- Hire and buy flexibility: Many tool shops only sell tools; HSS offers both rental and purchase, giving customers flexibility and letting them choose what fits their project and budget — a major benefit for occasional users or one-off jobs.
- Wide range of tools and equipment — not just hand tools: From small DIY tools to heavy-duty building equipment, access towers, pump/dry systems, heating, and site-preparation gear — HSS covers more than typical hardware stores, making it a more complete solution for diverse project needs.
- Convenience and accessibility: Large number of branches nationwide, combined with delivery and click-and-collect services, make HSS accessible even if you don’t own or want to store bulky equipment.
- Support for both private and trade users: Whether you’re a homeowner doing a weekend renovation, a gardener upgrading a patio, or a professional tradesperson working on a site — HSS caters to all.
What users appreciate — and what to be aware of
Many customers value HSS because it removes the need to buy expensive tools for one-time jobs — hiring saves cost and storage hassle. The flexibility of hire vs buy, combined with wide availability and convenience, often makes it a practical choice for homeowners and builders alike.
However, as with any large-scale hire service, experiences can vary. Some users cite difficulties with customer service or delays in invoicing after returns. Also — for complex or long-term projects — repeated hiring costs might add up, making buying a more cost-effective choice depending on frequency of use.
Why many choose HSS for their equipment and project needs
If you need flexibility, convenience, and a broad selection of tools and equipment — especially for tasks you won’t repeat often — HSS offers a powerful, accessible solution. The brand’s long history, nationwide presence, and dual hire/purchase model make HSS a go-to for DIYers, homeowners, and trade professionals alike.
Whether you’re planning a small weekend renovation or a larger construction job, HSS offers the tools, equipment, and support to match — without the commitment of owning and maintaining gear you seldom use.
