There’s nothing wrong with renting equipment for your business instead of buying them. In fact, there are many benefits to this such as not having to worry about maintenance, storage, and other associated costs. However, there are admittedly potential pitfalls that you need to watch out for when renting equipment for your business to prevent wasted time and money.
Here are four mistakes to avoid.
Not Checking for Compatibility
Before signing any contract, always check if the equipment you’re renting is compatible with your current setup. Whether it’s a desiccant air dryer or an industrial generator, there are different models and variations of almost every piece of equipment, so it’s important that you get the right one. Otherwise, you might end up wasting time trying to make incompatible equipment work or, even worse, damaging your current setup.
How do you make sure? First, do your research and ask around. If you’re still unsure, ask the rental company themselves. They often have experts who can guide you in choosing the right piece of equipment for your needs.
Not Inspecting the Equipment
Not every rental company is fair. Some are more reputable than others, so when you get the equipment, inspect it yourself or have someone on your team do it. Check for any damage or wear and tear. If there are any damages in questionable areas, take pictures or videos as evidence and notify the company right away.
This way, you can avoid being charged for damages that you didn’t cause and if the damages are extensive enough you may even be able to get a replacement piece of equipment.
Not Reading the Fine Print
Rental contracts aren’t always simple one-page documents. Sometimes there are pages and pages of the contract and it’s a mistake not to read it all.
First, the fine print often contains conditions and Terms of Use that, if not adhered to, could result in penalties. Then, it may also contain information on what’s included in the rental fee and what isn’t.
For example, some companies include maintenance and repairs in the rental fee while others don’t. So by not reading the entire contract, you may accidentally agree to something that could cost you more money in the long run.
Not Shopping Around
Don’t just go with the first rental company you find. Just like anything else, it pays to shop around and compare rates, services, and policies.
There are many rental companies out there and they’re not all created equal. Some have better rates while others offer more comprehensive services. So take the time to find the right company for your needs.
By avoiding these four mistakes, you can be sure that you’re getting the most out of your equipment rental experience. Do your research, know what you need, and always read the fine print to avoid any stressful surprises down the road.
