5 Factors to Consider Before Hiring Equipment
If you have a project that calls for expensive equipment, purchasing it may not always be the best solution. Hiring equipment for the duration of your project becomes the next best option. You can find hourly, daily, weekly or monthly contract periods, depending on the equipment and its provider. Below are some pointers on what to factor in when thinking of equipment hire.
Check for Availability
One of the fundamental things to do when looking for equipment to hire is to ask about a particular item's availability. Clients looking to hire equipment usually book in advance to ensure availability. Once you get a piece of equipment that you decide will work for your needs, book it to avoid any disappointments. You may have to place a booking fee for it.
Ask About Support Services
Malfunctioning equipment is always a possibility. A reputable hiring company will have a customer service support system that quickly solves an issue for you. Before placing a booking fee or deposit, find out whether the hiring company provides support services to their clients. If possible, consult with former or current clients of the hiring firm. Investigate how swiftly they handle service requests and whether requests were handled satisfactorily.
Will You Have to Pay Rental Insurance?
Some rental companies make it mandatory for a client to foot the cost of insurance during equipment hire for the duration of the contract. The reason for this is to provide protection against theft, malicious damage, etc., by clients. Find out where the hiring company you plan to engage stands on this to understand the costs and obligation you will assume.
Understand the Regulations Applicable to the Equipment
Some classes of equipment face legal regulations that affect their operation. The stipulations will affect your use of them, and you should understand the implications so that you can plan accordingly.
Will They Deliver it?
If you're hiring equipment that needs to be delivered to your location, do not assume that the provider will automatically take on that cost. Ask upfront to know if they have any delivery options or not and what price, if any, is attached to it.
Conclusion
Equipment hire is a service that companies provide to meet the need for vital equipment that is better leased than purchased outright by a client. Evaluating the best hiring company and equipment calls for a focus on several aspects to get the best value on your project.
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