Learning About Industrial Safety Equipment

5 Factors To Consider When Renting Construction Equipment

by Jonathan Carroll

Heavy equipment can be used to expedite any construction project. Unfortunately, investing in construction equipment might not be an option for your small construction company.

You don't have to forego access to heavy machinery just because you don't have the budget to buy this type of equipment. You can opt to rent your construction equipment instead.

Renting allows you to use heavy equipment as the need arises without incurring any purchase or maintenance costs. Be sure that you consider the following factors before renting your construction equipment to guarantee you have a positive experience.

1. Proximity

One of the benefits you enjoy when renting your construction equipment is the opportunity to work with a heavy equipment expert near your job site. The closer your rental company is to your construction site, the less you will pay in transportation costs.

You will also be able to request timely service and maintenance appointments when the rental company is nearby. This reduces the amount of time you spend waiting on repairs and helps maximize your crew's efficiency over time.

2. Training

Operating heavy machinery can be dangerous. It's important that any of your crew members that will work with rented construction equipment complete a comprehensive training program.

The knowledge obtained during these training courses can help you improve the overall safety of your construction site.

Many equipment rental companies will offer training for individuals who will be operating their equipment. This type of training allows your workers to become proficient in the use of the exact equipment make and model you will be renting to help complete your construction project.

3. Maintenance Schedule

You should always ask to see maintenance records before investing in heavy equipment rental. Routine maintenance is required to keep any piece of heavy machinery functioning properly.

You will be responsible for the safety and performance of any construction equipment you rent.

By checking for ongoing maintenance, you can reduce the amount of downtime you experience as a result of heavy equipment failure. You can also improve worksite safety by checking that the machinery you rent has been cared for properly.

4. Rates

Cost should always be a consideration when it comes to renting construction equipment. You should take the time to compare rental rates in the area near your construction site. Be sure to ask if a long-term discount is available.

Check to see if weekday rates differ from weekend rates. Many heavy equipment rental companies will ask for a deposit prior to processing a rental application, so be sure to ask about the deposit amount.

Determine if the rental company can provide delivery and pick-up for the equipment you rent so that you can factor these transportation costs into your budget.

Asking about all applicable rates will give you the ability to rent the most affordable construction equipment available.

5. Customer Service

Time is money on any construction site. You don't want to spend time waiting for equipment repair. The quality of the customer service offered by a heavy equipment rental company could have a direct impact on your company's bottom line.

You should work with a rental company that answers calls and questions promptly. Check online customer reviews to determine if other construction companies have had a positive experience working with a rental company before you decide where to rent your construction equipment in the future.

There are many factors that can influence the success of any heavy equipment rental. By keeping these factors in mind as you work through the rental process, you will be sure to secure the rented construction equipment that best meets your needs.

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