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Whether a customer is a professional contractor or a homeowner getting ready to kick off their next project and lacking the tools they need, renting from one of the best tool rental services around can fill the need. Tool rental services have a large inventory of tools and equipment rentals, including power tools, generators, aerial lift rentals, and more. When customers rent a tool, they can do so for as little as a few hours or up to a few weeks. Generally, the minimum rental time starts at 4 hours.
Although owning a tool has certain advantages, it may not always be the best financial decision, especially if someone is just planning to use the machine for a specific project or one to two times a year. However, if after a customer rents a machine they realize they want to keep it, most rental centers offer the option to buy the tool.
The best tool rental services offer high-quality tools and equipment, have a large inventory, make online and in-person booking easy, and have experts on staff who can help customers determine what tool they need for their project. Some even offer online or on-site training programs. Opting for one of the best tool rental services is a great way for both contractors and homeowners to find a top-notch provider. And chances are, the results will be better than what comes up with an online search for “tool rental near me.”
- BEST OVERALL: Sunbelt Rentals
- RUNNER-UP: United Rentals
- BEST EQUIPMENT SELECTION: Herc Rentals
- BEST FOR PROS: EquipmentShare
- MOST FLEXIBILITY: Menards
- ALSO CONSIDER: Lowe’s
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Service Area | Booking | Delivery | Customer Service | Training | |
| Sunbelt Rentals | 50 states and Washington, D.C. | Online, app | Yes | 24/7 by phone; email and live chat | Online and in-person |
| United Rentals | 49 states and Washington, D.C. | Online, app | Yes | 24/7 by phone; email | Online and in-person |
| Herc Rentals | 41 states and Washington, D.C. | Online, app | Yes | Phone, email, live chat | In-person |
| EquipmentShare | 38 states and Washington, D.C. | Online, app | Yes | Phone, email, live chat | At select locations |
| Menards | 15 states | In-person | No | Phone, email | No |
| Lowe’s | 50 states and Washington, D.C. | Online | No | By phone during store hours | No |
Our Top Picks
To choose the best tool rental services, we thoroughly researched and considered many relevant factors, such as the company’s equipment and tool inventory, coverage area, booking process, the rental process, customer service, equipment maintenance programs, and training and discounts offered.
Best Overall
Sunbelt Rentals
Pros
- Nationwide availability
- Large rental selection with more than 14,000 tools and products available
- Wide selection of low- or zero-emission equipment available
- 24/7 customer service via phone
Cons
- Somewhat limited availability of indoor tools
Why It Made the Cut: Sunbelt has a robust library of tools available with an impressive selection of low- and no-emission options. Plus, the company operates nationwide and offers 24/7 customer service.
As one of the most established tool rental companies in the country, Sunbelt Rentals has set itself apart, offering flexible rental options to pros and homeowners alike throughout the nation in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Customers can choose from the company’s selection of more than 14,000 products to find exactly the tool they need, whether they’re looking for lawn mower rental services or more complex equipment such as an excavator. This large inventory also means there is a greater chance of tools being available when a customer needs them. If customers are eco-conscious or prefer using tools that emit fewer emissions, Sunbelt Rentals offers low/no emissions equipment options.
While Sunbelt Rentals’ indoor tool availability is somewhat limited, the company goes above and beyond with its commitment to providing the best experience to its customers. It has an easy 100 percent online booking process, and 24/7 customer service is available via phone (email and live chat are also available). Plus, the company offers tool and equipment training available on-site and online. Customers may appreciate that level of support, especially if they are renting equipment they are unfamiliar with and have never used before.
Specs
- Service area: 50 states and Washington, D.C.
- Booking: Online, app
- Delivery: Yes
- Customer service: 24/7 by phone; email and live chat
- Training: Online and in-person
Sunbelt Rentals is a 2024 recipient of BobVila.com’s Home Improvement Hero designation.
Home Improvement Heroes recognizes the best companies homeowners could call for a problem, project, or service. Our editorial team used a rigorous process to evaluate based on availability, skills, range of services, cost, customer reviews, guarantees, refund policy, customer support, and more. We then independently reviewed each company and hired some for our projects for consideration. See the full list of honorees.
Runner-Up
United Rentals
Pros
- Comprehensive online and in-person course catalog for safety training and certification
- Used equipment available for sale
- 24/7 customer service via phone
Cons
- Some tools are not available for online reservation
Why It Made the Cut: United Rentals has 24/7 customer service and offers a wide selection of in-person and e-learning training and certification courses to help customers make the most of their tool rental. The company even offers used equipment for sale at a bargain.
With a nearly nationwide reach, United Rentals offers a great selection of outdoor and indoor tools to rent for projects of any size. The company also provides a comprehensive online and in-person catalog of over 300 courses for safety training and certification so customers can ensure they’re using tools appropriately.
United Rentals provides 24/7 customer service with representatives available over the phone, so customers won’t have to wait to have questions about their tool or rental agreement answered. Customers can also choose to contact support via email. Although some tools cannot be reserved online (and must be reserved in person), most can be booked and managed online or on the go with United Rentals’ mobile app. Plus, the company offers equipment delivery directly to the customer’s home or jobsite. In addition, those looking to buy a reliable tool without breaking the bank may be interested to know that United Rentals even sells used tools and vehicles.
Specs
- Service area: 49 states and Washington, D.C.
- Booking: Online, app
- Delivery: Yes
- Customer service: 24/7 by phone; email
- Training: Online and in-person
Best Equipment Selection
Herc Rentals
Pros
- White-glove service available with customized, streamlined ordering and support
- Used equipment available for sale
- Wide variety of specialized equipment available
Cons
- 48-hour notice required for online bookings
Why It Made the Cut: Herc Rentals offers all kinds of tools available to rent or buy used, including specialized equipment like worksite sound dampening and equipment for TV, movies, and live events. With Herc Plus, customers get an elevated and streamlined rental experience.
Herc Rentals offers one of the largest tool and equipment selections and is a one-stop shop for any tool needs, including specialty items. The company also offers used equipment for sale if customers have an ongoing need for a particular tool. Herc Rentals’ selection goes beyond typical power tools, with a wide range of specialized equipment available for rent, including worksite sound dampening and equipment for film and TV production and live events. The company has locations in many areas around the country and provides online and in-person booking. Online equipment reservations need to be booked at least 48 hours in advance. For same-day rentals and availability, customers can call or visit their local branch. Customers who are members of the company’s white-glove support program, Herc Plus, can access a streamlined ordering process and are given top priority when they submit a rental request or request assistance. They’ll also be given a single point of contact for optimized support and hands-on assistance. Herc Rentals offers training and certifications for special equipment like forklifts and booms, as well as equipment used for dust control, which can be done at a local store or project site.
Specs
- Service area: 41 states and Washington, D.C.
- Booking: Online, app
- Delivery: Yes
- Customer Service: Phone, email, live chat
- Training: In-person
Best for Pros
EquipmentShare
Pros
- Real-time alerts regarding equipment utilization and rental status
- Bluetooth-enabled equipment tracking included
- New and used equipment available for sale
Cons
- Limited DIY rental equipment
Why It Made the Cut: EquipmentShare has high-tech solutions and large-scale equipment that make it ideal for professionals of all industries. Customers may also appreciate that the company has new and used equipment available for sale.
Using the latest technology for equipment tracking and performance, EquipmentShare is among the top construction equipment rental options for contractors across the country. Its built-in tracking technology allows the company to monitor equipment performance so it receives the appropriate maintenance. Customers can receive alerts on their rentals’ utilization and status to ensure equipment isn’t being misused, and Bluetooth tags ensure that a piece of equipment never goes missing. EquipmentShare does cater more toward professionals, and the rental options may not be suitable for DIYers.
The company has locations in many states across the nation and a great selection of tools and equipment, so many pros will be able to find what they are looking for. In addition, if training is needed for a specific piece of equipment, it’s advised to reach out to the company to see if the service is offered. Training availability varies from branch to branch. The customer service team can be contacted online using the live chat option, via email, or by phone to see if the nearest location offers training.
In addition, EquipmentShare sells brand-new and used tools, which may be convenient for customers who decide they are better off purchasing certain equipment rather than renting. Each used tool comes with a complete digital history so that customers can get a snapshot of the item’s performance and working status.
Specs
- Service area: 38 states and Washington, D.C.
- Booking: Online, app
- Delivery: Yes
- Customer service: Phone, email, live chat
- Training: At select locations
Most Flexibility
Menards
Pros
- Flexible rental periods
- Transparent rental rates
- Rental trucks available to transport equipment
Cons
- Relatively small service area covering 15 states
- No online booking option
- No online training or safety resources
Why It Made the Cut: Menards has flexible rental hours, and the transparent pricing also allows customers to budget for their rental ahead of time. Menards’ truck rental offerings allow customers to easily transport equipment to and from the store.
Although it only has locations in 15 states, Menards is a favorite home improvement store among homeowners in the Midwest. The company not only sells all the materials one may need for a project, but it also offers all the heavy-duty tools needed to help customers get the job done like a pro. Menards’ tool and equipment rentals are available to anyone 18 years and older for a minimum of 4 hours rather than pay to rent an item for a full day. Customers can also rent equipment for several days if need be, giving them the flexibility to rent tools for either short DIY projects or more extensive home repairs. Online reservations are not offered, so customers will need to coordinate their rentals with in-store staff members. Menards offers a complete and transparent price list online so customers can budget for their rentals before arriving at the store.
Although the company does not offer equipment training, its highly trained staff is happy to answer customers’ questions—and there are also tool manuals on hand if necessary. As an added convenience, Menards offers Pickup & Go truck rentals for customers 21 years or older across all the company’s local stores to make transporting tools and materials a breeze. For any questions or customer support, customers can call or email their local store.
Specs
- Service area: 15 states
- Booking: In-person
- Delivery: No
- Customer service: Phone, email
- Training: No
Also Consider
Lowe’s
Pros
- Nationwide availability
- Flexible rental periods
- Home improvement materials available for sale
Cons
- No online training or safety resources
- Account is required to reserve items and complete rental
- Rental services not available at all locations
Why It Made the Cut: Lowe’s equipment rental program is a great choice for DIYers nationwide as purchasing materials and renting tools can be done from the same location. Lowe’s tool rental services offer flexible rental periods, and its convenient booking and reservation system is entirely online.
For those wondering “Does Lowe’s rent tools?” the answer is yes—at most locations. As a store with a national presence, Lowe’s has thousands of locations throughout the country, offering building materials and tool rentals for all home improvement projects, indoors and outdoors. However, equipment rental is not available at every store, so customers will want to contact their local store or look online to confirm it offers this service.
Online booking through Lowe’s is easy and smooth—DIYers and pros can see all of the available tools and make reservations on the spot once an account is created. Prospective customers may want to note that they will need to create an account to reserve tools and complete their online rental. Tools can be rented in person, too. While Lowe’s does not offer tool training or safety courses, it does provide operating manuals for all of its tools. Knowledgeable staff is on hand for any questions that may come up. Best of all, the tool rental periods with Lowe’s start with as little as 4 hours and can go for as long as 4 weeks, making it a good option for homeowners regardless of whether they need to rent a tool for only a few hours or for several days.
Specs
- Service area: 50 states and Washington, D.C.
- Booking: Online
- Delivery: No
- Customer service: By phone during store hours
- Training: No
Our Verdict
Sunbelt Rentals is a top pick for tool rental services, providing the best overall experience in terms of pricing, flexibility, and customer service. And offering standout safety training and certification options, United Rentals is the way to go if customers need support getting started with their equipment.
How We Chose the Best Tool Rental Services
To develop this list of the best tool rental services, dozens of tool rental services throughout the country were researched. The company’s number of locations, pricing, booking process, tool selection, and training resources were considered to narrow down the selection. Also considered were companies with national outreach, convenient rental times, and customer service to ensure all homeowners and pros have options to choose from, regardless of their location.
What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Tool Rental Services
Before selecting a rental tool provider, there are a few key factors to consider, such as the variety of tools offered, service area, and more.
Equipment Selection and Availability
Each tool rental service has a wide variety of tools for outdoor and indoor projects, including power tools and gardening tools, and some even have heavy-duty equipment like skid steer, backhoe, and trencher rental, just to name a few. Customers will want to check with a local equipment rental to see if it has the tool they need and its availability, whether they are looking for the best carpet cleaner rental services or need something more specialized like sound equipment for an event. Since some popular tools may not be available as a last-minute booking request, planning is essential.
Service Area
One of the benefits of major tool rental centers is that they are located throughout the country, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that there will be a location near all customers. Prospective customers are encouraged to check for nearby locations before committing to a service.
Booking
Generally, most tool rental services have a very straightforward booking process. Customers can book a tool in person or online with credit card information, ID, and the desired rental time frame. Some services will require customers to book a tool 48 hours in advance when doing so online.
Pickup, Delivery, and Length of Rental
Pickup and delivery options vary depending on the size of the tools and equipment. For hand tools or tools that are easy to carry, customers may pick them up themselves. For large equipment like generators, excavators, and bulldozers, the rental center may offer delivery services for an additional fee that can be arranged for the time and date the tool is needed for the project. A customer can typically rent a piece of equipment for as little as 4 hours or up to a few weeks.
Customer Service
Should any issue arise with the machine at the time of use, reaching customer service is of the utmost importance. The last thing a customer wants is to lose a day of work or rental if the equipment is not working and no one is there to help.
Most companies specializing in rental tool services have dedicated customer service teams that work around the clock to provide 24/7 customer service. However, others may only have specific times that they offer customer service based on their store’s hours.
Equipment Certification and Maintenance
Typically, each tool rental location has established protocols for having its equipment and tools checked before and after a customer rents them. There is usually a label on the tool with all the details on when the machine was last serviced, the operational status, and who performed the service. If this isn’t on the tool, a customer can ask the attendant at the tool rental pickup or delivery site. No one wants to get a tool home to have it malfunction in the middle of their project.
Training
Although a customer may already have experience working with some tools, and some may be straightforward to use, there are companies that offer or require training for specific pieces of rental equipment. This won’t be necessary for services such as ladder rental, but those operating a forklift for the first time may want a bit of guidance. The extent of the training will depend on the tools, project, and a customer’s previous experience using the tool.
If a customer plans on renting technical equipment that they’re not familiar with, they’ll want to make sure that the chosen rental company offers in-person or online training. Some tool rental companies have dedicated training programs that customers can participate in before taking the tool home with them.
Even if the company doesn’t offer complete training, customers are encouraged to ask for a quick demo of the tool if possible and get the equipment’s operating manual in case any issues should arise.
Discounts
Nowadays, most rental companies may offer a discount for tools with more extended rental periods. Other companies may offer memberships or customer discounts for professional contractors. A customer can check with individual companies to learn the discount policies.
Cost of Renting vs. Owning
The cost of renting a tool or piece of equipment will vary depending on the type and length of the rental. Of course, sometimes it might be tempting to buy a low-cost tool, but if it’s only going to be used once or twice a year, it’s not worth it. Customers can expect to pay around $20 to $50 to rent a power tool or even a floor sander. For larger equipment like a forklift or scissor lift rentals, customers will want to plan on paying around $100 to $500 daily—a much better rate compared to the actual price of the equipment, which can cost several thousands of dollars.
Before You Use a Tool Rental Service
Renting a tool from a local rental service is a great way to save money without investing in an expensive tool if it will only be used for a specific project. However, customers will want to keep in mind that some tools and equipment need special skills and training to be operated safely. So when choosing a rental service, customers are encouraged to think about their level of familiarity with a tool or piece of equipment and whether the company offers training in using the rented machinery.
Regardless of the kind of tool or equipment a customer gets, it’s important for them to read the operation manual and keep it handy even if they know how to use the machine. And last but not least, customers will want to keep the tool rental center contact info available in case the device is not working or they have any questions. In some cases, it may be better to buy rather than rent more versatile tools, especially if the equipment will be used multiple times throughout the year—lawn mowers and chain saws, for instance. Homeowners considering The Home Depot’s equipment rental services, for instance, may want to narrow their selection to specialized equipment such as demolition tools or cement mixers.
Cost of Using a Tool Rental Service
The cost of renting a tool from one of the best tool rental services does vary based on your physical location, the type of tool or equipment you need, and the rental period. Generally, a customer can rent a tool for 4 hours, 24 hours, 1 week, or even 4 weeks. The cost will usually start around $20 for small power tools. Moderately sized equipment may cost a bit more. For instance, floor sander rental costs hover around $50 at The Home Depot or Lowe’s. At the higher end of the spectrum, renting a floor sander from Sunbelt Rentals for a day can cost up to $190.
For large equipment, the cost can range between $100 to $500 or more. For example, the average cost to rent a wood chipper is around $70 to $550 per day. Costs at Herc Rentals for this rental are relatively high (starting at $330 per day), but a 4-hour rental from Lowe’s, Sunbelt Rentals, or The Home Depot is about $70.
The Advantages of Using a Tool Rental Service
Using one of the best tool rental services offers many advantages. The staff is knowledgeable and can assist with any tool or equipment rental needs. Staff can also answer any questions and help customers pick the right tools and equipment for a project. Plus, tool rental services have a rigorous process to maintain and keep tools and equipment in good working condition 24/7. In addition, some of the best tool rental services offer the following benefits:
- On-site and online tool and equipment training
- New and used tools for sale
- Flexible rental periods
- Top tool brands available
Tool rental services help get the work done and can help contractors expand their services without having to buy costly machinery or tools.
FAQs
Renting a tool from a rental center is a straightforward process, and most of the time, a customer will only need to be at least 18 years old to rent tools and over 21 to rent motorized equipment. They’ll also need to bring a valid photo identification card and a credit card.
The sooner you do it, the better, given that the tool availability may be limited at some periods. You can book tools as soon as the same day. However, some providers require you to do so 48 hours in advance if you book online.
The short answer is yes, but it depends on the location’s inventory availability. Call ahead of time to make sure the rental center offers same-day delivery.
Generally, when you rent a tool, a company will only put a hold on your credit card for the deposit of the tool, and upon return of the tool, you’ll be charged the total amount of the rental fee. Check with your local tool rental provider to see what its policy is.
Some tool rental services offer special discounts when you join their loyalty program or when you are a professional contractor. Ask your tool rental center for any available discounts.
Usually, you will only be charged the complete tool rental fee upon receiving your tools. If that is not the case, make sure to ask your rental service about its policy, or contact the company if your delivery is running late.
If your local tool rental service doesn’t have a tool you are looking for, you can contact other rental services near you or ask your local provider if another branch has it.
Yes, tool rental services are available in all states. However, not all companies have locations in every state.
