United Rentals rents construction and industrial equipment by the day, week, or month, with pricing that depends on the equipment type, location, and rental length

United Rentals is a national equipment rental company that operates over 1,400 locations across the United States and Canada. You can rent cranes, aerial lifts, earthmoving equipment, power tools, and temporary facilities like storage containers and office trailers. Unlike buying equipment, you pay only for the time you need it, and United Rentals handles maintenance and repairs during the rental period.

The company charges based on the specific equipment, your location, and how long you rent. A one-day rental costs more per day than a weekly or monthly rental of the same item. You can reserve equipment online, by phone, or in person at a local branch. Delivery is available for an additional fee, or you can pick up and return equipment yourself.

United Rentals serves construction companies, contractors, event planners, landscapers, and homeowners doing large projects. If you need a crane for a single job rather than owning one, renting through United Rentals or a competitor may cost less than purchase, storage, insurance, and eventual sale.

Key Takeaways

  • United Rentals charges by the day, week, or month, with weekly and monthly rates lower per day than daily rates for the same equipment.
  • You can pick up equipment at a local branch or pay for delivery, which adds to your total cost.
  • Maintenance and repairs are included in the rental price, so you do not pay separately if equipment breaks during your rental period.
  • Pricing varies by location and equipment type, so you must contact your local United Rentals branch or check their website for a specific quote.
  • You need a valid driver's license and often a credit card or deposit to rent equipment.

How pricing works at United Rentals

United Rentals does not publish fixed prices online. Instead, you enter the equipment type, your zip code, and your rental dates into their website or call a local branch, and they give you a quote. The price depends on local supply, demand, and what other rental companies in your area charge.

Rental periods follow a standard structure: daily, weekly, and monthly rates. A weekly rate is typically lower per day than renting the same item for seven separate days. A monthly rate is lower per day than a weekly rate. Some equipment has a four-week minimum for monthly rentals. Damage waivers, fuel charges, and delivery fees are separate line items added to your base rental cost.

If you rent equipment for longer than the rental period you selected, United Rentals may charge you an overage fee or automatically move you to the next tier. For example, if you rent something for eight days on a daily rate, you might be charged for a full week instead. Ask about this when you get your quote so you understand what happens if your project runs long.

What equipment United Rentals offers

United Rentals' inventory includes heavy equipment (cranes, excavators, bulldozers, loaders), aerial work platforms (boom lifts, scissor lifts, telehandlers), power tools (drills, saws, compressors, generators), and temporary facilities (storage containers, office trailers, portable toilets, fencing). They also rent climate control units, pumps, and specialty items depending on your location.

Not every location stocks every item. A small branch may not have a large crawler crane in stock, but they can often order one from another location or arrange a special delivery. Call ahead or check their website to confirm the specific equipment you need is available on your dates.

Pickup, delivery, and damage responsibility

You can pick up equipment at a United Rentals location during business hours, or the company will deliver it to your job site for a fee. Delivery cost depends on distance and equipment size. For a small item like a power drill, pickup may be free or cost very little. For a large crane, delivery can be several hundred dollars or more.

When you pick up or receive equipment, United Rentals inspects it with you and documents its condition. You are responsible for damage that occurs during your rental period beyond normal wear. The company offers damage waivers that cover accidental damage for an additional daily or weekly fee. Without a waiver, you pay for repairs out of pocket. Read the damage terms in your rental agreement before you sign, because the definition of "normal wear" varies.

You must return equipment clean and in the condition you received it. If it is excessively dirty or damaged, United Rentals may charge a cleaning or repair fee on top of your rental cost. Return it during the rental company's business hours on your return date, or you may be charged for an extra day.

How to reserve equipment and what you need to bring

You can reserve equipment through United Rentals' website, by calling a local branch, or by visiting in person. Online reservations let you see availability and pricing when ready. Phone and in-person reservations let you ask questions and negotiate terms.

To rent equipment, you need a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card). You also need a credit card or a deposit to find the rental. Some locations accept business accounts if you rent regularly. If you are renting for a company, bring a business license or tax ID number.

When you reserve, tell United Rentals your project dates, the equipment you need, and whether you want pickup or delivery. Confirm the total cost, including delivery and any waivers. Ask about cancellation terms in case your project dates change.

Comparing United Rentals to other rental companies

United Rentals is the largest equipment rental company in North America by revenue, but it is not the only option. Regional and local rental companies often have lower prices in their areas or specialize in specific equipment types. National competitors include Sunbelt Rentals, Herc Rentals, and Neff Corporation. Smaller local companies may offer more personalized service or faster delivery.

To find the best rate, contact three or four rental companies in your area with the same equipment request and dates. Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars for the same crane or lift. Some companies offer discounts for longer rentals, frequent customers, or off-peak seasons. Asking about these discounts costs nothing.

United Rentals' advantage is its size: with over 1,400 locations, you can often find a branch near you, and they stock a wide range of equipment. The disadvantage is that larger companies sometimes have higher prices than smaller competitors in the same area.

Insurance and liability during a rental

United Rentals' rental agreement typically limits the company's liability for injuries or property damage caused by the equipment. You are responsible for operating the equipment safely and following all laws and regulations. If someone is injured because you operated equipment negligently, your business liability insurance or personal homeowner's insurance may cover it — but only if you have that insurance.

Before you rent heavy equipment like a crane or aerial lift, check your insurance policy to confirm it covers rental equipment. Some policies do not. If your policy does not cover rentals, you may need to purchase additional coverage or a rental-specific policy. United Rentals can sometimes provide this coverage for an extra fee, but it is worth comparing prices with your insurance agent.

If you are renting for a construction company, your company's general liability insurance should cover equipment rentals. If you are renting as an individual for a personal project, your homeowner's insurance may not cover it. Ask your insurance agent before you rent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a crane from United Rentals for just one day?

Yes, United Rentals rents cranes by the day, week, or month. A one-day rental costs more per day than a weekly or monthly rental, but it is available. Call your local branch or check their website with your dates and crane type to get a price.

What happens if I return equipment late?

If you return equipment after your rental end date and time, United Rentals charges you for an additional day or week, depending on how late you are. Some locations charge a flat late fee plus the extra rental time. Return equipment during business hours on your return date to avoid this charge.

Does United Rentals deliver equipment, and how much does it cost?

Yes, United Rentals delivers equipment for a fee. Delivery cost depends on distance, equipment size, and your location. Call a local branch or get a quote online to see the delivery cost for your specific job site and equipment.

Do I need a license to operate a rented crane or lift?

Yes. Operating a crane requires a Certified Crane Operator (CCO) license in most states, and operating an aerial lift often requires certification through OSHA or a manufacturer training program. United Rentals rents the equipment, but you must provide proof of your license or certification. Some locations offer operator training for an additional fee.

What if the rented equipment breaks down during my project?

United Rentals is responsible for repairs and maintenance during your rental period. Call your local branch when ready if equipment breaks, and they will repair it or bring you a replacement. You do not pay for repairs if the equipment fails due to normal use. If you damaged it, your damage waiver covers it if you purchased one.