Looking for construction machinery for rent? Here’s a quick guide to what you need to know:
- Best for projects with <60% utilization rate (renting is more cost-effective than buying)
- Common rental equipment: excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, backhoes, dozers
- Typical rental periods: daily (8 hours), weekly (40 hours), monthly (176 hours)
- Average costs: Costs can vary depending on the size of the machine
- What to bring: valid ID, insurance certificate, credit card or deposit
When your construction project needs to get rolling but purchasing equipment isn’t practical, construction equipment for rent offers the perfect solution. Whether you’re a contractor juggling multiple jobsites or a DIY enthusiast tackling a one-time project, equipment rental provides access to the machines you need without the long-term commitment.
The construction equipment rental industry has evolved significantly, with a variety of companies located across North America and offering everything from mini excavators to heavy-duty wheel loaders. This accessibility means you can find exactly what you need for your specific project requirements.
Renting is typically more cost-effective when you use the equipment less than 60% of the time. This rule of thumb helps many Wisconsin contractors make smarter financial decisions while maintaining access to the latest machinery.
“Flexibility and quick solutions are crucial in many construction projects, especially those undertaken by smaller construction companies,” notes one industry expert. This flexibility extends to rental periods, which can range from daily to annual terms depending on your project timeline.
With rental options from trusted manufacturers like Hitachi, New Holland, Link-Belt, and Takeuchi, you can access well-maintained, late-model equipment without worrying about storage, maintenance, or depreciation costs.
Why Renting Beats Buying for Modern Jobsites
The rent-or-buy decision isn’t always black and white, but across our Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay locations, we’ve watched more and more Wisconsin contractors shift toward rental solutions. There’s a good reason for that trend at Kelbe Brothers Equipment.
60% rule we mentioned? It’s a practical guideline we share with customers: if you’ll use that excavator or loader less than 60% of the time, renting typically makes better financial sense. This applies across our entire fleet, from compact Takeuchi track loaders to massive Hitachi excavators.
What makes renting so appealing to our Wisconsin customers? You’ll never worry about finding storage space for that wheel loader during the off-season. You’ll always have access to the newest models with cutting-edge features. Maintenance? That’s on us. Need exactly the right machine for that unique hillside project? We’ve got you covered. And when your workload suddenly doubles, scaling up is just a phone call away. Plus, those rental costs are typically 100% tax-deductible as business expenses.
The Financial Upside
The money-saving benefits of renting construction machinery for rent go way beyond just avoiding that big initial purchase price. When you partner with Kelbe Brothers, you keep your capital free for other investments while enjoying predictable project costs.
“Renting construction machinery just makes sense compared to buying new or dealing with used machines,” as our rental department manager often says. “With flexible rental periods, you can complete projects at surprisingly reasonable costs.”
Your cash flow stays healthier when you spread equipment costs over your project timeline instead of making one massive upfront investment. Your credit lines stay open for other business needs. You’ll never lose sleep over depreciation as your shiny new purchase loses value year after year. Your maintenance budget? Dramatically reduced. And your insurance costs only cover the weeks or months you actually need the equipment.
For Wisconsin contractors dealing with our seasonal workloads, these advantages translate directly into more competitive bids and healthier profit margins on every project.
Flexibility & Project Fit
The true magic of construction machinery for rent is matching exactly the right equipment to each unique job. At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we help contractors across Wisconsin select perfect machines for specific applications – whether it’s a Hitachi excavator for that foundation work or a New Holland skid steer for tight interior demolition.
This flexibility proves invaluable when you’re facing seasonal demands and only need specialized equipment during Wisconsin’s warmer months. Need a specialized attachment for a one-time task? We’ve got you covered. Want to test drive that new Takeuchi compact track loader before committing? Rent it first. Need to upgrade mid-project when you find that the trench needs to be wider? Just swap out for a larger machine. Curious about that new load-sensing hydraulic system everyone’s talking about? Experience it without buying it.
Our Wisconsin customers particularly value being able to exchange equipment when project requirements shift, ensuring they always have exactly the right tool without excess capacity sitting idle back at the yard. That’s why more contractors trust our operator safety training programs to help their teams maximize productivity with our rental fleet.
Construction Machinery for Rent: Product Roundup
When you’re looking for construction machinery for rent in Wisconsin, our Kelbe Brothers fleet has you covered. We’ve carefully curated our rental inventory to include only the most reliable, high-performance machines from industry-leading manufacturers. Let’s walk through some of our most popular rental options that keep Wisconsin contractors coming back time and again.
Hitachi Excavators – essential construction machinery for rent
Ask any contractor about their go-to construction machinery for rent, and Hitachi excavators often top the list. These workhorses have earned their reputation through consistent performance and remarkable precision on jobsites across Wisconsin.
Our Hitachi excavator rental fleet ranges from nimble compact excavators perfect for tight urban worksites to powerful full-size models that make short work of major excavation projects. What makes these machines special is their smart hydraulic systems that give operators incredible control while keeping fuel consumption in check.
You’ll appreciate the comfortable cabs during those long Wisconsin workdays – they’re designed to reduce fatigue with excellent visibility and intuitive controls. Even if you’re newer to operating excavators, you’ll find these machines accessible, though we always recommend proper training for safety’s sake.
Need attachments? We’ve got you covered with buckets in various sizes, hydraulic thumbs for better material handling, breakers for demolition work, and compaction wheels that make trench work a breeze.
Takeuchi Compact Track Loaders as construction machinery for rent
When your project demands versatility without tearing up the ground, our Takeuchi Compact Track Loaders shine as exceptional construction machinery for rent. Wisconsin contractors love these machines for their ability to work in tight spaces while treading lightly.
What makes Takeuchi CTLs special? Their rubber tracks minimize damage to finished surfaces and spread the machine’s weight to reduce ground pressure. The zero-swing design lets you steer confined areas without compromising performance, while its inherent stability means safely handling heavy loads even on Wisconsin’s uneven terrain.
Operators consistently praise the comfortable cabs with their excellent visibility and intuitive controls. The vertical lift design provides impressive reach and lifting capacity – perfect for loading trucks or placing materials precisely where they’re needed.
Our attachment selection includes versatile buckets, pallet forks, augers for fence posts, trenchers for utility work, and even snow removal equipment for those Wisconsin winters.
Link-Belt Material Handlers
For specialized material handling needs, our Link-Belt Material Handlers offer robust solutions when you need construction machinery for rent. These purpose-built machines excel in scrap, recycling, and timber applications where reach and precision matter most.
What sets Link-Belt handlers apart is their lift cab design that gives operators a commanding view of the entire work area – improving both safety and productivity. Their extended reach lets you access materials across large work zones, while their specialized hydraulic systems deliver smooth, precise control even when handling awkward or heavy materials.
Wisconsin contractors particularly value these machines for scrap and recycling operations, timber handling and processing, bulk material transfer, and industrial material handling tasks that require specialized equipment.
New Holland 200 Series Skid Steer Loaders
When versatility is non-negotiable, our New Holland 200 Series Skid Steer Loaders are the construction machinery for rent that Wisconsin contractors reach for first. These compact powerhouses tackle an impressive range of tasks despite their small footprint.
The New Holland SSL machines feature vertical lift design for superior reach when you need it most. Their Super Boom technology provides excellent forward reach at full lift height – a game-changer when loading trucks. The quick-attach system lets you switch between attachments in minutes without leaving the cab, maximizing your productivity on multi-task projects.
These machines truly shine in confined spaces where maneuverability is essential. Wisconsin contractors regularly use our New Holland skid steer rentals for site prep and cleanup, material handling, grading and leveling, snow removal, and even landscaping tasks.
Hitachi Wheel Loaders
For material handling that demands both power and finesse, Hitachi Wheel Loaders stand out in our construction machinery for rent lineup. These versatile machines combine impressive breakout force with excellent maneuverability – exactly what Wisconsin jobsites demand.
What makes Hitachi Wheel Loaders special? Their impressive breakout force easily handles tough digging conditions, while their load-sensing hydraulics provide just the right power for each task – no more, no less. The spacious cabs offer excellent visibility and comfortable operation, while their fuel-efficient design keeps operating costs in check on long-running projects.
The articulated steering provides a tight turning radius and excellent maneuverability even in confined spaces. Their parallel lift arms maintain level loads throughout the lifting range – ideal for material handling applications where precision matters.
Wisconsin contractors regularly use our Hitachi Wheel Loader rentals for loading aggregate materials into trucks, moving palletized materials around jobsites, stockpiling and material transfer, snow removal with specialized attachments, and general site preparation tasks.
How to Choose the Right Equipment & Rental Partner
Picking the perfect construction machinery for rent isn’t just about finding the biggest or newest machine. It’s about finding the right fit for your specific project needs. At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we take pride in helping Wisconsin contractors steer this decision with our hometown expertise and personalized approach.
When you’re ready to rent, start by considering these project essentials:
First, take a good look at your site conditions. Is your jobsite muddy and uneven, or are you working on finished concrete? Do you have tight access points or overhead obstacles? These factors will narrow down your equipment options significantly.
Next, get specific about your required specifications. Whether you need a Hitachi excavator that can dig 15 feet deep or a New Holland skid steer that can lift 2,000 pounds, knowing your numbers makes selection straightforward.
Your project timeline matters too. While we’re always flexible, knowing whether you need equipment for three days or three months helps us provide the most cost-effective rental solution.
Don’t forget to plan your delivery logistics. Our delivery team needs to know if there are access challenges like tight gates, low-hanging wires, or weight restrictions that might affect how we get your equipment to you.
Understanding your insurance requirements upfront prevents day-of-rental headaches. We’ll help you understand exactly what coverage you need before the equipment arrives.
The maintenance plan is something many renters overlook. As a family-owned Wisconsin company for four generations, we stand behind our equipment with responsive service that national chains simply can’t match.
Finally, check if your project has specific emissions tier requirements. Some municipal projects or indoor work may require newer, cleaner-burning equipment with specific emissions certifications.
When comparing rental providers, look beyond just price. Consider the entire package—equipment condition, local support, and response time. Our Wisconsin roots mean we’re not just a vendor; we’re your neighbor, providing experienced staff, quick turnaround, and hassle-free service that keeps your project moving.
Need flexible payment options? We’ve got you covered with terms that work for businesses of all sizes. More info about financing options
Rental Costs & Fee Checklist
Understanding the true cost of construction machinery for rent helps prevent budget surprises.
The base rental rate is just the beginning of the story. Delivery and pickup fees typically depend on how far your jobsite is from our yard. We’ll always be upfront about these costs before finalizing your rental.
Fuel charges apply if you return equipment with less fuel than when you received it. It’s a simple courtesy that helps the next customer get right to work. Similarly, modern Tier IV equipment requires DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid), which should be topped off before return.
Many contractors opt for our damage waiver for peace of mind. While completely optional, it can save you from unexpected expenses if something goes wrong.
Be mindful of overtime charges if you’ll be running equipment beyond standard hour limits (8 hours daily, 40 weekly, or 176 monthly). And yes, we do appreciate when equipment comes back reasonably clean—excessive mud or concrete can result in cleaning fees.
At Kelbe Brothers, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden costs. We’ll provide a detailed quote covering all applicable charges before you commit to your rental.
Insurance & Liability Basics
Proper insurance coverage isn’t just a formality when renting construction machinery for rent—it’s essential protection for everyone involved. Most rental agreements require customers to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) that meets specific requirements.
General liability coverage of at least $1 million is standard in the industry. You’ll also need property damage coverage that specifically protects the rental equipment while it’s in your care.
Your insurance certificate should include an additional insured endorsement that names Kelbe Brothers Equipment. This ensures your policy extends protection to us while you’re using our equipment.
Primary and non-contributory wording is insurance language that ensures your policy responds first in case of an incident. Similarly, a waiver of subrogation prevents insurance companies from seeking reimbursement from other parties after paying a claim.
Don’t have the right coverage? No problem. Your insurance agent can usually prepare the necessary certificate quickly. If you’re in a bind, we can often help arrange short-term insurance solutions specifically for your rental period.
Pay attention to your policy’s deductible—this is the amount you’ll be responsible for before insurance kicks in. For shorter rentals or high-risk applications, many contractors find our optional damage waiver provides cost-effective peace of mind.
Maintenance & Emergency Support
One of the biggest perks of choosing construction machinery for rent is the comprehensive maintenance support that comes with it. At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we don’t just drop off a machine and disappear—we stand behind every piece of equipment with service you can count on.
Our approach to maintenance begins before you ever see the equipment. Every machine undergoes thorough inspection and servicing between rentals, ensuring you get reliable performance from day one.
Things sometimes go wrong even with the best equipment, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency support. Our technical assistance is just a phone call away, any time of day or night.
When more hands-on help is needed, our field technicians can come directly to your jobsite. These aren’t generic mechanics—they’re factory-trained specialists who know our Hitachi, New Holland, Link-Belt, and Takeuchi equipment inside and out.
For situations where repairs might take longer, we provide equipment swap-outs to keep your project moving. We understand that downtime costs you money, and we’re committed to minimizing it.
Even if you just need some basic troubleshooting guidance, our team is happy to walk you through common issues. Sometimes a simple adjustment is all that’s needed to get back to work.
Want to learn more about our service capabilities? Visit our service page for details on our maintenance programs and emergency response options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Construction Equipment Rentals
What if my project runs longer than planned?
We understand that construction timelines can shift unexpectedly. That’s why at Kelbe Brothers, we’ve built flexibility into our rental policies. When your project needs more time, just give us a call as soon as you know – ideally 24-48 hours before your scheduled return date. We’ll check if the equipment isn’t already reserved for another customer and simply extend your agreement at the appropriate rate.
“Construction delays happen to everyone at some point,” says our rental manager. “As a local Wisconsin company, we pride ourselves on being more flexible than the big national chains. We’re here to help you succeed, not complicate things when plans change.”
For those rare occasions when you finish early, we offer prorated refunds on weekly and monthly rentals. Daily rentals, however, are typically charged at the full rate regardless of actual hours used – something to keep in mind when selecting your rental term.
The key is communication – just let us know what’s happening with your project so we can work with you to find the best solution.
Is operator training included with the rental?
When you rent construction machinery for rent from Kelbe Brothers, we always provide basic operational guidance during delivery. Our team will walk you through the essential controls, safety features, and daily maintenance points to get you started.
For operators who need more comprehensive instruction, we offer additional training options:
“Safety is always our top priority,” explains our equipment specialist. “Proper training not only prevents accidents but also increases productivity and reduces wear on the machines – it’s a win-win for everyone.”
Each rental includes written materials and quick-start guides, but we strongly recommend that only properly trained personnel operate heavy equipment. For specialized machines or less experienced operators, we can arrange more in-depth training sessions with our equipment specialists for an additional fee.
These sessions cover operational techniques, safety procedures, and basic troubleshooting to ensure you get the most from your rental. We can also refer you to certified training programs for specialized equipment that requires formal certification.
How many hours can I use the machine each day?
Our standard rental agreements include hour allowances that align with typical workday schedules. For a daily rental, you get 8 hours of operation. Weekly rentals include 40 hours (essentially 8 hours per day for a 5-day work week), while monthly rentals provide 176 hours (based on 22 working days at 8 hours each).
These limits reflect normal single-shift operations, but we understand that some projects require longer hours or multiple shifts. In those cases, we can offer overtime rates or create a custom rental agreement that better fits your specific needs.
All our equipment has hour meters that track usage, and exceeding your included hours typically results in additional charges calculated as a percentage of your base rental rate. To avoid surprises on your bill, it’s best to be realistic about your anticipated usage when selecting your rental term.
“We’ve worked with contractors who initially chose a daily rate but quickly realized a weekly or monthly term made more sense for their project,” notes our rental coordinator. “We’re always happy to help you determine the most cost-effective rental structure based on your specific needs – just ask!”
Conclusion
There’s something special about finding the perfect piece of construction machinery for rent when your Wisconsin project needs it most. At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we’ve spent four generations building a rental service that combines big-inventory advantages with the personal touch that only a family-owned business can provide.
When you walk through our yards in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Butler, or De Pere, you’ll find an impressive lineup of Hitachi excavators ready to dig, New Holland skid steers waiting to load, Link-Belt material handlers prepared to lift, and Takeuchi track loaders eager to grade. But what you’re really getting is a partner who understands Wisconsin construction challenges and how to overcome them.
What makes us different isn’t just our equipment—it’s how we support you before, during, and after your rental. That excavator isn’t just a machine; it’s backed by technicians who know every hydraulic line and control valve by heart. When you call with a question at 2 AM (because construction emergencies don’t respect business hours), a real person with real solutions answers the phone.
Our customers tell us it’s this 24/7 emergency support that truly sets us apart. When you’re racing against weather, deadlines, and daylight, knowing help is just a call away makes all the difference. And with our flexible financing options, we’ve removed the paperwork headaches that often come with equipment rentals.
Whether you’re managing multiple projects across Wisconsin or focused on a single specialized job, our team becomes an extension of yours. We’ll help you select exactly the right construction machinery for rent, walk you through all costs upfront (no surprises here), and ensure you have every support resource needed to succeed.
Ready to experience the Kelbe Brothers difference on your next project? Take a moment to explore our complete Rental Equipment inventory or reach out to our team today. We’re proud to help Wisconsin build better, one successful project at a time.