Most rental and equipment-buying surprises come from fees nobody asked about: delivery, damage waivers, fuel, overtime hours and cleaning. Take these questions to every construction equipment rental company you call, write the answers down side by side, and get the important ones on the contract.
When to reserve: usually 2–7 days ahead (weeks ahead in peak season).
The Questions
- What are the daily, weekly and 4-week rates, and how many engine hours does each include?
- Is delivery and pickup included, and what does each trip cost?
- Is a damage waiver required, and what does it cover and exclude?
- Do I need my own certificate of insurance instead of the waiver?
- What fuel level must it be returned at, and what do you charge for refueling?
- Which attachments (buckets, augers, breakers, forks) are included or extra?
- How old is the machine, and when was it last serviced?
- Who do I call if it breaks down, and do I pay for downtime?
- Is cleaning required before return, and is there a cleaning fee?
- Does the rental clock start at delivery or when I sign the contract?
- Do you give a weekend rate (Friday pickup, Monday return)?
- Do you offer a quick operating walk-through or training?
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Tips
- A week usually costs about three to four daily rates, and four weeks about three weekly rates, so compare the longer rate before booking several days.
- Call 811 at least a few business days before you dig so buried utilities are marked; it is free.
- Take time-stamped photos of the machine at delivery and at pickup.
Before You Sign
- Check the start and end dates and times, the exact model and attachments, and the total price.
- Read the damage, loss and late-return terms.
- Photograph the equipment at delivery and return.
- Pay by credit card where possible, and keep the signed contract.
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