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 equipment dealer you call, write the answers down side by side, and get the important ones on the contract.
When to reserve: usually visit anytime; order times vary by model.
The Questions
- What is the out-the-door price with freight, prep, taxes and fees?
- For used machines: how many hours, and can I see the service records?
- What warranty is included, and is an extended warranty offered?
- Do you offer financing, and at what rate and term?
- Do you take trade-ins?
- Do you rent this model, and does rent count toward buying (rent-to-own)?
- How far away is your service shop, and do you do field service?
- How long do parts usually take?
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Tips
- Renting the same model for a week is a cheap way to test before you buy.
- Dealer service capacity matters as much as price for heavy machines.
- Ask for an itemized quote so you can compare dealers fairly.
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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