Equipment Hire Tips

Are you a budding contractor? If you are, equipment hire is a viable option since you might not have the funds to purchase large trucks and earthmovers. However, the equipment hire process may not be as straightforward as you might presume. Below is a piece detailing the considerations to make when renting equipment. 

Determine The Specifications Of The Required Equipment 

Examine the site conditions and work plans to establish the equipment specifications needed at your site. For instance, when hiring earthmovers, you would be concerned about their maximum reach and weight limits. Their size would also be a concern when working in constricted spaces such as underground tunnels or indoor locations. Other considerations would include:

  • What is the equipment's fuel consumption? The general rule is to consider fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly models.
  • Consider models that come with high-tech safety features. For example, some earthmovers have sensors that warn operators when they are unstable or overloaded.
  • Ensure the equipment is suited to perform optimally regardless of the site conditions. For instance, all-wheel capabilities keep the equipment functional in muddy terrain when it rains.
  • The equipment should incorporate modern technology, such as power take-off shafts, to ease operation. Moreover, a heated cab lets you operate the equipment regardless of the weather.  

Assess The Rental Conditions

Assess the catalogues of local equipment rental companies to determine the availability of the required equipment. Then, assess the rental conditions. For instance, are you allowed to keep the equipment overnight? Many rental companies allow you to keep the equipment as long as you can guarantee security. If you are not a skilled operator, ask the company to deploy experienced operators and riggers. Many clients forego rigging services. However, the professionals help enforce safety at the site. For instance, they inspect site equipment and alert operators to avoid accidents. 

Does the rental company guarantee the condition of the rented equipment? Conduct due diligence to ensure the equipment is in excellent condition. Moreover, negotiate the rental conditions to ensure the company offers maintenance services. You must also assess the insurance coverage of the rented equipment. Inquire about the need to apply for hired-in plant insurance. 

Negotiate Creatively 

Once you evaluate the rental conditions, it becomes easy to negotiate the equipment hire costs. For instance, when does the rental period begin? Ideally, it should start when the equipment arrives at your site to avoid incurring additional expenses when it is in transit. You can also ask the rental company to offer free transport. Such strategies can help you reduce rental charges. 


Share