Renting equipment for the first time can feel a little intimidating—especially when you’re dealing with heavy machinery or tools that can make or break your project timeline. Whether you’re a homeowner taking on a big DIY project or a contractor filling a gap in your fleet, avoiding a few common mistakes can save you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle.
Here are five key mistakes first-time renters should avoid:
1. Not Knowing Exactly What You Need
The Mistake: Walking into a rental yard and saying, “I need a digger,” without really knowing what size or type of machine is best for your job.
The Fix: Before you rent, assess your project carefully. What kind of terrain are you working on? How much space do you have to maneuver? What depth, lift, or load capacity do you need? If you’re unsure, a quick call to our rental team can help you choose the right piece of equipment for the job—no guessing required.
2. Overlooking Safety and Training Requirements
The Mistake: Assuming you can just hop in and go, especially with larger or more technical machinery.
The Fix: Safety first! Ask if the equipment requires any specific certification, training, or PPE (personal protective equipment). We offer quick-start guides and safety tips with all rentals, and in some cases, can provide a brief walk-through or links to manufacturer tutorials. Don’t skip this—your safety (and others’) depends on it.
3. Not Planning for Transportation
The Mistake: Renting a 10,000 lb. skid steer… and then realizing your pickup truck or trailer can’t handle it.
The Fix: Make sure you have a way to transport the equipment, or ask if delivery and pickup is available (many rental companies, like ours, offer this service). Knowing the dimensions, weight, and tie-down requirements of your rental in advance prevents a lot of stress on pickup day.
4. Forgetting to Check the Fine Print
The Mistake: Signing the rental agreement without reviewing the terms—like fuel charges, cleaning fees, damage waivers, or return deadlines.
The Fix: Ask questions and read the rental agreement. Understand your responsibilities for maintenance, fuel levels, and return times. Surprises on your invoice? No thanks. Our team is happy to walk you through the details so there are no hidden fees.
5. Underestimating Your Timeline
The Mistake: Thinking you can finish a two-day job in four hours to save a few bucks—then rushing through your work or racking up late fees.
The Fix: Be realistic about how long your project will take. It’s often cheaper (and less stressful) to rent for a day or weekend than to risk overages or work while exhausted. We offer flexible rental periods to fit your timeline and budget—just let us know what you’re working on.
Final Thoughts
Your first rental doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead, asking the right questions, and working with a knowledgeable rental provider, you can set your project up for success. At Apex Equipment Rentals, we’re here to make the process simple, safe, and hassle-free.
Need help picking the right equipment?
Contact us or give us a call—we’ll help you get what you need to get the job done right.
