Do you have big tree stumps to remove? A tow-behind stump grinder is a powerful machine that can help.

People with extensive gardens or many stumps often hire these. Landscapers also use them for big jobs.

Instantly Understand: What Makes a Stump Grinder ‘Tow-Behind’?

A tow-behind stump grinder is built onto its trailer.

You need a car or truck with a tow bar to move it.

It has a strong engine that spins a cutting wheel with sharp teeth.

These teeth chew the stump into small wood chips.

Its main benefit is power.

It grinds big stumps much faster than smaller, walk-behind grinders.

Determine if Hiring a Tow-Behind Grinder Suits Your Project

Think about your job before you decide to hire.

These machines are great for specific tasks.

Assess Your Stump Situation: Ideal Scenarios for Hiring

Hiring a tow-behind grinder works best when:

• You have lots of stumps to remove (maybe five or more).
• Your stumps are huge (wider than a dinner plate, say 12-15 inches or more).
• You can easily drive a vehicle towing a trailer up to the stumps.

One customer told us:

“I had 10 massive oak stumps. Hiring the tow-behind for a weekend cost me about £350. A tree surgeon quoted over £1000! It was hard work, but it saved me a fortune.”

This shows how it can save money on big projects.

Evaluate Your Property Access and Terrain Carefully

Think carefully about getting the machine to the stumps.

Can a truck or large car pulling a trailer fit through your gate?

Is there enough space to turn around or position the machine?

Two-behind grinders work best on flat, firm ground.

Soft, wet grass can get marked by the two vehicles’ tyres.

Very steep slopes can be tricky and sometimes unsafe.

Extremely tight spaces are hard to work in with a towed machine.

You need room to move the grinder side-to-side over the stump.

Weigh the Key Benefits When You Hire a Tow-Behind Grinder

These machines offer real advantages for the right job.

Harness Superior Power for Faster Grinding

Two-behind stump grinders usually have powerful engines.

Standard hire models range from 25 horsepower (HP) to 40 HP or more.

Some huge ones have over 80 HP!

This power means they grind stumps quickly.

They make short work of tough, hardwood stumps like oak or beech.

They can grind stumps deep below the ground.

Most can reach 12 to 25 inches deep, removing the main root ball.

This lets you replant grass or shrubs afterwards.

Achieve Cost-Effectiveness on Multi-Stump or Large Jobs

Hiring a machine costs money.

But a tow-behind can be cheaper overall for big jobs.

Imagine you have 10 large stumps.

Hiring a small pedestrian grinder might take days.

You might need to hire it multiple times.

Depending on size and access, paying a professional tree service could cost £800 – £1500+.

Hiring a powerful tow-behind for a day or a weekend might cost £150 – £400.

If you have the right tow vehicle and access, you save money doing it yourself.

Cost Comparison Example (Estimate):

Job Scenario	Professional Removal Quote	Hire Small Grinder (2 days)	Hire Tow-Behind (1 day)	Potential Saving (DIY Tow-Behind)
8 Medium Stumps	£700	£240	£180	£520
3 Very Large Stumps	£500	£180 (might struggle)	£180	£320
15 Mixed Size Stumps	£1200	£360+ (slow)	£300 (weekend hire)	£900

Note: Prices are estimates and vary. Always get specific quotes.

Acknowledge the Crucial Challenges Before Committing to Hire

Be honest about the difficulties before you book.

These machines are not suitable for everyone or every site.

Confirm You Have the Essential Towing Capability (CRITICAL POINT)

This is the biggest hurdle for many people wanting to hire.

You must have a suitable vehicle to tow the grinder legally and safely.

We explain exactly what you need in the next section.

Do not hire if you are unsure about your car or towing ability.

Navigate Potential On-Site Moving Difficulties

Once unhitched, you still need to position the grinder at the stump.

They are heavy machines.

While some have features to help move them slightly, they are not easy to push around by hand.

They are much less agile than self-propelled grinders in tight spots.

Turning them into small gardens or around obstacles can be hard work.

One DIY hirer shared their experience:

“Getting the grinder down my narrow garden path was tough. Reversing the trailer was tricky, and I accidentally scuffed the lawn. The grinding was fast, but positioning took ages.”

Recognise the Need for Towing Competence and Operator Skill

You need to be comfortable towing a trailer.

This includes reversing it accurately.

Using the grinder itself also takes some practice.

The controls move the cutting wheel side-to-side and up and down.

Learning to do this smoothly takes time.

It can be physically demanding work, especially on large stumps.

Common Problems Summary Box

• Wrong Tow Vehicle: The Car/SUV is too small or lacks the correct tow bar.
• Poor Access: Cannot get the machine near the stumps easily.
• Difficult Ground: Too soft, wet, or steep, making towing and operating hard.
• Tricky Manoeuvring: Hard to position the grinder in tight spaces.
• Towing Inexperience: Driver struggles to reverse or handle the trailer safely.
• Underestimating Time: Grinding can take longer than expected, especially for beginners.
• Dull Teeth: Grinding is slow and challenging if the machine teeth are worn. (Check this!)

Master Your Towing Requirements: The Make-or-Break Factor

Let’s be very clear about towing.

Getting this wrong is unsafe and could damage your vehicle or the grinder.

Identify the Correct Tow Vehicle: Beyond Just Having a Hitch

Not just any car with a tow bar will do.

Tow-behind stump grinders are heavy.

• Lighter models weigh around 450 – 700 kilograms (about 1000 – 1500 pounds).
• Larger, more powerful units can weigh 900 – 1800 kilograms or more (2000 – 4000+ pounds).

You must use a vehicle that can legally and safely tow this weight.

Typically, you need:

• A pickup truck (like a Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max).
• A large SUV (like a Land Rover Discovery, Toyota Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Shogun).
• Some heavy-duty vans might also be suitable.

Check Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity:

1. Your vehicle’s handbook (owner’s manual) states the maximum braked towing weight.
2. Find the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate. This is often on the door frame or under the bonnet. It lists weights – look for the ‘Gross Train Weight’ (maximum weight of car + trailer) and ‘Gross Vehicle Weight’ (maximum weight of car). The difference is your towing capacity.
3. Never exceed your vehicle’s stated towing limit.

Crucial: When you enquire about hiring, tell us what vehicle you plan to use. We can help confirm whether it’s suitable for the specific grinder model.

Verify Your Hitch Class and Electrical Connections

Most UK tow bars use a standard 50mm tow ball. Our grinders are designed for this.

Ensure your tow ball is securely fitted and in good condition.

You also need working trailer electrics for the grinder’s lights.

Standard connectors are 7-pin or 13-pin sockets. Check which one your vehicle has.

We usually have adaptors if needed, but please check beforehand.

Important: Some heavy grinders might have their brakes (electric or hydraulic). If hiring one of these larger models, your vehicle might need a special brake controller fitted. We will advise if this applies to the machine you hire.

Honestly Assess Your Comfort and Experience Towing Trailers

A heavy stump grinder is not the best place to start if you have never towed anything.

You need to be comfortable with:

• The extra length when driving and turning.
• Reversing the trailer accurately, often into awkward spots.
• Awareness of how the trailer moves (swing-out on corners).

Practice towing in an open area first if you are unsure.

Safety is the top priority.

Compare Your Hire Options: Tow-Behind vs. Other Stump Grinders

Is a tow-behind the best choice for your hire? Let’s compare.

Feature	Tow-Behind Grinder	Self-Propelled/Pedestrian Grinder	Tracked Grinder
Best For	Many/Large Stumps, Good Vehicle Access	Fewer/Smaller Stumps, Tight Access	Rough Ground, Slopes, Maximum Power
Power	High (e.g., 25-40+ HP typical hire)	Moderate (e.g., 13-27 HP typical hire)	High to Very High (e.g., 25-100+ HP)
Transport	Needs Suitable Tow Vehicle	Fits in Van/Large Estate Car, or Small Trailer	Needs Large Trailer/Lorry Transport
On-Site Movement	Limited – Relies on Tow Vehicle/Hard Work	Easier – Drives Itself	Good – Drives Itself, Handles Slopes Well
Ground Impact	Can Mark Lawn from Tow Vehicle	Lighter, Less Marking	Can Mark Ground with Tracks
Typical Hire Cost	££ (Higher Daily, Good Weekly Value)	£ (Lower Daily Cost)	£££ (Highest Hire Cost)
Skill Needed (Hire)	Towing Skills + Grinding Practice	Easier for Beginners to Handle On-Site	Similar Grinding Skill, Easier Movement

Think about:

• How will you get the machine home and to the stump?
• How easy is your access?
• How many and how big are the stumps?
• What is your budget?

Answering these helps choose the right grinder type to hire.

Analyse the Tow-Behind Stump Grinder Hire Costs in the UK

Knowing the costs helps you budget.

Understand Typical Hire Rates: Daily, Weekly, Weekend

Hire prices vary based on your location and the specific machine’s size and power.

Expect prices in the range of:

• Daily Rate (24 hours): £100 – £250 + VAT
• Weekend Rate (e.g., Fri PM – Mon AM): £150 – £380 + VAT
• Weekly Rate (7 days): £300 – £750 + VAT (Offers better value for longer jobs)

More powerful grinders generally cost more per day.

Always confirm the exact price for the model you need.

Uncover Potential Additional Costs: Delivery, Fuel, Insurance

Remember to ask about extra charges:

• Delivery & Collection: We may offer delivery if you cannot take it. The cost is based on the distance.
• Fuel: Machines are usually hired out with a full tank of petrol or diesel. You need to return it full, or pay for the fuel used. Check if it uses petrol or diesel!
• Insurance/Damage Waiver: Hire includes basic insurance, but there’s usually an excess if damage occurs. You might be offered a ‘damage waiver’ for an extra fee to reduce your liability. Check the terms carefully.
• Cleaning Charge: Return the machine reasonably clean to avoid extra fees.

Navigate Our Straightforward Hire Process: What to Expect

Hiring from us is simple. Here is how it works.

Prepare Your Documentation and Deposit

When you come to collect the grinder, you will usually need:

• Photo ID: Your UK driving licence is perfect.
• Proof of Address: A recent utility bill or bank statement (matching your licence address).
• Payment: We accept major credit/debit cards.
• Deposit: A security deposit is usually held on your card during the hire period. This is refunded when the machine is returned safely.

Know the Pre-Hire Checks We Perform (and You Should Witness)

We want you to be safe and successful.

Before you leave, we (or our delivery driver) will:

• Check the tyre pressures and condition.
• Inspect the tow hitch mechanism.
• Test the trailer lights.
• Check the engine oil and fuel levels.
• Inspect the cutting teeth for sharpness and damage. (Feel free to ask about this!)
• Check that safety guards are in place and working.
• Start the engine to show you it runs correctly.

Watching these checks gives you confidence in the machine.

Understand Handover: Operating Instructions and Safety Briefing

We will not just hand over the keys.

We will show you:

• How to safely hitch and unhitch the grinder.
• How to start and stop the engine.
• How to use the operating controls (swing, depth, cutter engagement).
• Key safety points to remember while working.

Ask questions if anything is unclear! We want you to feel comfortable.

Operate Your Hired Tow-Behind Stump Grinder Safely and Effectively

Using these powerful machines requires care. Your safety is most important.

Prioritise Your Safety: Essential PPE Checklist

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not optional – it is essential.

Always wear:

• Eye Protection: Safety glasses are a minimum. A full face shield offers better protection from flying wood chips.
• Hearing Protection: Earplugs or ear defenders. These machines are loud.
• Gloves: Sturdy work gloves for grip and protection.
• Sturdy Footwear: Steel-toe-capped boots are best. No trainers or open shoes.
• Trousers & Long Sleeves: Protect your skin from debris. Chainsaw trousers offer extra leg protection.

Follow Key Operating Procedures: From Hitching to Grinding

Here is a basic guide (we will show you specifics for the model you hire):

1. Hitching: Securely attach the grinder to your tow vehicle. Connect safety chains and electrics. Check lights work.
2. Transport: Drive carefully to the work site. Remember the trailer’s length and width.
3. Positioning: Unhitch the grinder (use the jockey wheel and stabilisers). Position it carefully facing the stump. Ensure it’s stable.
4. Pre-Start Checks: Recheck fuel and oil. Ensure the cutting wheel area is clear of rocks, tools, or people.
5. Starting: Follow the specific starting procedure for the engine (e.g., choke, throttle, key/pull start).
6. Engage the Cutter Wheel: Slowly engage the lever or switch that makes the wheel spin. Listen for smooth operation.
7. Grinding: Lower the spinning wheel slowly onto the edge of the stump. Use the control handle(s) to sweep the wheel side-to-side across the wood. Gradually lower the wheel deeper after each sweep. Let the machine do the work – don’t force it.
8. Shutdown: Disengage the cutter wheel. Let the engine idle briefly, then turn it off using the key or stop switch.
9. Unhitching: Re-hitch to your vehicle carefully when finished.

Avoid Common Mistakes: Learn from Others

Beginners often make these errors:

• Cutting Too Fast/Deep: Removing too much wood at once strains the machine, which can stall or cause excessive vibration. Take shallow passes.
• Ignoring Debris: Wood chips fly out at high speed. Keep everyone (people, pets, windows) at least 50 feet away. Note the wind direction.
• Not Checking Underground: ALWAYS check for hidden pipes (gas, water) and cables (electric, phone) before grinding. Use cable avoidance tools (CAT scanners) or check utility plans. Hitting a service is dangerous and expensive. A forum user warned: “Scan first! I nearly took out my neighbour’s phone line. Wasn’t worth the risk.”
• Hitting Rocks/Metal: Avoid grinding into rocks, concrete edges, or old fence posts. This will damage the cutting teeth quickly. Clear the area around the stump first. Damaged teeth may incur extra costs.

Conduct This Crucial Pre-Hire Site Assessment Checklist

Before you confirm your hire booking, check your site:

• Access Width: Measure your narrowest gate or path. Is it wider than the grinder’s width (check specs on our website)?
• Overhead Clearance: Look up! Are there low branches, washing lines, or overhead wires in the way?
• Ground Condition: Is the ground firm enough for the tow vehicle and grinder? Will it be muddy if it rains?
• Slopes: Are there steep slopes where you need to tow or operate? Could you discuss this with us?
• Underground Services: Have you located ALL gas pipes, water pipes, electric cables, etc.? This is your responsibility. If unsure, get professional help locating them before hiring.

Learn from Real Hirer Experiences: Scenarios & Tips

Hearing from others can be helpful.

Scenario 1 (Success): Sarah had 12 medium-sized conifer stumps in her large back garden. Access was good via a wide side gate. She hired a 30 hp tow-behind for a Saturday using her husband’s pickup truck.

• Result: “Towing was fine. The instructions were clear. It took about 5 hours of grinding. It was tiring, but it saved us about £600 compared to the tree surgeon quote. Well worth it!”
• Tip: Allow more time than you think, especially for setup and cleanup.

Scenario 2 (Challenge): David rented a tow-behind for three old apple tree stumps in his more miniature town garden. His SUV met the minimum towing weight, but access was tight.

• Result: “Reversing the trailer into the garden was a nightmare. I made some ruts in the lawn. The grinder was powerful, but controlling the swing smoothly took ages to learn. Wish I’d hired the smaller pedestrian one.”
• Tip: Be realistic about your access and towing skills. If in doubt, choose a smaller machine or ask about delivery.

Tips from Forum Users & Landscapers:

• Always check the teeth’ condition before you leave the hire shop. Dull teeth make grinding incredibly slow and frustrating.”
• “If you’re worried about lawn damage on soft ground, use plywood boards under the tow vehicle wheels.”
• “The tow-behind is way faster than smaller machines for big jobs with good access. We use them on development sites all the time.”
• “Don’t forget the stump goes below ground level. Grind at least 6-8 inches to remove the main part.”

Your Tow-Behind Stump Grinder Hire Questions Answered (FAQ)

Here are answers to common questions:

• What size truck/SUV do I  need? Check the specific grinder’s weight (on our website) and compare it to your vehicle’s legal towing capacity in the handbook or VIN plate. A pickup truck or large 4×4 SUV is usually required. Don’t guess!
• Is it hard for a beginner to use? Towing requires competence. Operating the grinder takes practice to be smooth and efficient. It’s physically demanding. We provide instructions, but there is a learning curve. Most people manage fine if they take their time and follow safety rules.
• How long will it take to grind X stumps? It varies hugely! Factors include stump size, wood type (hardwood is slower), machine power, tooth condition, and operator skill. A rough guide: a medium (18-inch) softwood stump might take 20-40 minutes for a beginner; a large hardwood stump could take over an hour. Allow plenty of time.
• Can I use it on slopes? Use extreme caution. If possible, operate across the hill (not up and down). Ensure the machine is stable before starting. Avoid very steep slopes. Discuss your site with us beforehand.
• What happens if the teeth get damaged? Teeth wear down with regular use. However, hitting rocks, metal, or concrete causes excessive damage. You are usually responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing teeth damaged this way. Check the hire agreement terms.

Ready to Clear Those Stumps? Take the Next Step

You understand what a tow-behind stump grinder does.

You know the benefits and the challenges.

You know how vital the right tow vehicle is.

Hiring one can save time and money if you have the right project, vehicle, and access.

Contact Our Friendly Team Today for Expert Advice

✅ Well-serviced, powerful machines

✅ Expert advice on choosing and towing

✅ Transparent pricing – no hidden fees

✅ Delivery options (ask for availability)

✅ Local service and support