Rental quotes look simple until the invoice arrives. Here is how the price is built, so you can compare yards fairly.
Day, Week and 4-Week Rates
Almost every yard publishes three rates. As a rule of thumb, the weekly rate is about three to four times the daily rate, and the 4-week rate about three times the weekly rate. If you need a machine for four or five days, ask for the weekly price: it is often the same or cheaper. Our rental rate checker finds the cheapest combination for any number of days.
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Engine-Hour Limits
Rates usually assume single-shift use, commonly 8 hours a day, 40 a week or 160 per 4 weeks, tracked on the hour meter. Double shifts are billed as overtime, often at a percentage of the rate. Tell the yard up front if you will run long days.
Fees to Check on Every Quote
- Delivery and pickup (each way, sometimes by distance)
- Damage waiver (usually a percentage of the rental charge; see damage waivers explained)
- Fuel: return it full or pay the yard's fuel price plus a service fee
- Cleaning: mud-caked machines often carry a fee
- Environmental or service fees and sales tax
- Attachments: buckets, augers, breakers and forks may be extra
Ways to Pay Less
- Weekend specials: pick up Friday afternoon, return Monday morning
- Pick up and return yourself if you have a suitable trailer and tow vehicle
- Book the weekly rate instead of 4+ daily rates
- Ask about an older machine in the fleet at a lower rate