When I started working with my Uncle Bob last summer, I assumed that construction would be an easy, fun way to make a few extra bucks. However, I quickly discovered that construction work was serious business, filled with risks, difficulty, and rewards. After almost being creamed by a few backhoe booms, I learned how to stay out of the way. However, staying safe around heavy machinery isn't always easy to do. My blog talks about how to use machinery properly and what you need to do to stay safe so that you can return home to your family each and every day.
Staying Safe Around Heavy Machinery
4 Tips To Save Money When Renting Construction Equipment
Ashley Hayes
Renting heavy construction equipment is cheaper than buying. You can access various types of machinery and return them at the end of your project. Renting the machinery also saves you from dealing with equipment insurance, maintenance, and servicing. However, the rental process can still be expensive, especially if you need multiple items. Below are four tips to help you save money when renting construction equipment.
Plan the Rental as Needed
Before renting construction equipment, plan your project to determine the stages you require specific equipment. For example, you may need excavators at the start of the project to clear and grade the land. Hiring a crane at this stage when you don't need it may cost a lot of money.
Create a detailed plan of the equipment you will need during the different phases. Find an equipment provider who has a wide range of equipment for hire. Discuss your rental plans to ensure the various machinery will be available when you need them.
Choose a Suitable Rental Rate
Rental companies have various rental rates. These include hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly hire rates. Choose the rate that works best for your project while saving you money. For example, if you have a one-time land grading project that will take a few hours, you can rent a dozer or grader on an hourly basis to save money. However, if you need an excavator throughout the project, consider choosing a monthly rental rate. Remember discounts may be available, especially for long hires.
Go for Operated Equipment Rental
Operated equipment rental is where a rental company hires machinery together with an operator. This package is costlier than the one where you only get the equipment. However, it can save you money in the following ways:
- Access to an experienced operator: You don't have to look for an operator for the rented equipment. Some companies even offer operators who can handle various pieces of machinery, which can save you a lot of money on multiple hires.
- Reduced equipment accidents: Well-trained operators can help reduce accidents, injuries, and property damage on your site. With fewer accidents, there is less downtime and more cost savings.
- Liability shift: The rental company is liable for accidents and incidences resulting from their operator's negligence. With no liability, you can save money on lawsuits and compensations.
Hire New Equipment
Old construction equipment is always more affordable to rent. However, the machinery is prone to inefficiencies and frequent breakdowns, which can cost a lot of money. Even if the rental company offers a replacement, your project can still suffer costly downtime. Therefore, go for newer pieces of machinery. They may cost more to rent, but they will work more efficiently, leading to reduced project times.
Contact a construction equipment rental service for more information.
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