equipment rentals

5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Renting Heavy Equipment

April 5, 2022

If you’re in the market for some heavy equipment, it’s important to do your research first. Not all rental companies are created equal, and you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. Here are five essential questions to ask before renting any heavy equipment.

1. How Often Do You Service Your Equipment?

You’ll want to make sure that the equipment you’re renting is well-maintained. Ask the rental company how often they service their machines and if they have a regular maintenance schedule. This will help ensure that you’re getting a safe and reliable piece of equipment.

Again, equipment that isn’t properly serviced can break down unexpectedly, which is the last thing you want when trying to get a job done.

2. What Kind of Insurance Coverage Does the Rental Company Have?

Accidents can happen, even with reliable equipment. That’s why it’s important to ask the rental company about their insurance coverage. Ensure that you’re fully protected in case of any unexpected accidents or damage.

3. Are There Any Extra Fees I Should Know About?

There’s no such thing as a free rental. So, before you sign any paperwork, make sure you know about all the extra fees associated with renting the equipment. These could include delivery fees, fuel surcharges, or even late-return fees.

4. What is the Weight Limit of the Equipment?

Not all pieces of equipment are created equal. So, before you rent, be sure to ask about the weight limit of the machine you’ll be using. This is especially important if you’re planning on doing any heavy lifting with the equipment. For example, skid steer loaders have a variety of weight limits depending on the model. According to the Construction Equipment Guide, the most powerful skid steer loader in the United States is the Gehl 7810E with 99 horsepower.

5. What Happens if I Need to Cancel My Rental?

Life happens and sometimes plans change. If you need to cancel your rental, be sure to ask about the company’s cancellation policy. Some companies might charge a fee, while others might give you a full refund.

Bonus: Do You Offer Attachments?

Equipment rentals can be even more useful when you have the right attachments. So, before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to ask the rental company if they offer any attachments for the equipment you’re renting. This could include things like buckets, blades, or demolition hammers.

Equipment rentals can be a great way to get the job done, but it’s important to do your homework first. You can ensure that you’re renting safe and reliable equipment by asking the right questions. Call us today to speak to a representative about our equipment rentals.