5 Things to Keep in Mind When Renting Heavy Equipment

Renting heavy equipment is a fast and convenient way to access a wide array of tools for any small or big job. There are, however, a few considerations to keep in mind when renting, because it's important to make sure the equipment is in continuous working condition. In general, contractors find that renting heavy equipment from a reputable company is the best choice in terms of overhead and convenience, compared to owning machinery.

Types of Heavy Equipment Usually Rented

The most common pieces of equipment that you might rent are a backhoe, dozer, crane, forklift, truck, excavator, loader, and water pump. The type of equipment you need will depend on the project. For example, a bulldozer would be the best choice for clearing land while a loader would be used to haul dirt and debris away from the construction site.

How Does Heavy Equipment Rental Work?

The process of renting heavy equipment is very plain and simple. A customer would rent the equipment by paying a predetermined price for a certain amount of time. They would then be able to use the machine at their discretion. The equipment rental agreement will include information about the cost, what the renter agrees to do with the machine, and how much it will cost when they return it to the company at the end of its term, including any insurance or transportation charges incurred.

1. Prepare a Few Days in Advance

If you’re planning a construction project and need to rent heavy equipment like an excavator, make sure you give the rental company at least a few days notice. You will need to contact the heavy equipment rental company at least 24 hours before your desired pickup time to reserve it. If you are not prepared, they may not have what you need to rent.

2. Gather All the Worksite Information before Making a Rental Request

It is important to know what worksite conditions are like before renting heavy equipment. This will help you find the right equipment for your needs and avoid costly mistakes. Make sure to provide the rental company with the necessary information about the worksite, including any hazardous materials that they should be aware of. It is also important to know how long you need the equipment for so they can provide a quote for this time period. Ironing this out in advance can make it easy for your rental supplier to provide any support you may require during the rental period.

3. Understand the Costs Related to Renting Heavy Equipment

The cost depends on the type of equipment, length of rental, and if it is daily, weekly, or monthly. However, the rental fee has more to it than just the actual cost of the tool you’re renting. You should always familiarize yourself with these fees to avoid any surprises when you look at your invoice. Expect to see some of the following when you receive your quote:

• Rental rates of the equipment itself (daily, weekly, or monthly);
• Transportation fees;
• Rental insurance (if any);
• Tax (wherever applicable).

If you received your quote over the phone, make sure that the number provided is the base price or the overall service fees.

4. Control Costs by Renting Heavy Equipment for a Specified Period

Renting heavy equipment may be the best option for you if you only need to use the machine for a short time period or if you lack the space to store it. By renting, you can explore what your needs are and then buy equipment as needed. Other than renting, many people choose to finance and lease heavy equipment.

5. Maintain Your Rental Equipment

One of the major advantages to renting heavy equipment is that it will be maintained by the company, saving you time and energy. However, it is important to maintain your rental equipment in order to prolong its life and save on cost. The best way to do this is by loading and unloading equipment as gently as possible. Make sure you keep it clean and free of debris, and make regular inspections for cracks or damage. Doing so will help make sure that your rental equipment lasts and can be rented out for a long time.

If you want to make an informed decision when renting heavy equipment, use the following tips and tricks:

• First, always be aware of how many hours are included in your rental agreement. This will help you avoid any surprise charges at the end of your rental period.
• Second, do not overestimate your needs for this type of equipment. You can always rent it again in the future if you need it more than expected.
• Finally, when renting equipment, look for a company that offers competitive prices without sacrificing quality.

Al Marwan offers a range of heavy equipment for rent including excavators, dozers, and trucks. With 45 years' experience serving the construction, mining, and municipal sectors in the region, we can help you rent the right machine for your project. Contact us today to explore your options.