Equipment Rental FAQ: Answers to Common Questions
Renting heavy equipment for the first time, or just want to know how things work at Wakarusa Heavy Equipment? Here are straight answers to the questions our counter staff hear most, from what you need to rent a machine to delivery, fuel, financing, and service. If you don't see your question here, give us a call or send us a message.
Renting Equipment
What kind of equipment can I rent?
We rent a full fleet of construction and landscaping equipment, including mini excavators, full-size excavators, skid steers, compact track loaders, dozers, wheel loaders, telehandlers, scissor lifts and boom lifts, rollers and compaction equipment, articulated haul trucks, dump trailers, generators, light towers, air compressors, and hand tools. Browse everything with current rates on our rental catalog.
Do you rent to homeowners, or only contractors?
Both. We rent to contractors, landscapers, farmers, municipalities, and homeowners. Whether you're digging a footing for a garage, clearing brush, grading a driveway, or tearing out a patio, our team can help you pick a machine that fits the job and your experience level.
How long can I rent a machine?
Most equipment is available by the day, week, or month, and you'll see all three rates listed on each machine in our catalog. A one-day rental covers up to 24 hours. Rental rates are based on single-shift use, about 8 hours a day and 5 days a week, so let us know up front if you plan to run a machine longer than that.
What do I need to rent equipment?
Plan to bring a valid ID and a payment method for your rental and deposit. Renters are also required to carry insurance on the equipment for its full replacement value, since we don't supply insurance on rentals. Give us a call before you come in and we'll walk you through exactly what's needed for the machine you want. You can review our full rental agreement ahead of time.
Do you deliver rental equipment?
Yes. We offer heavy equipment delivery and pickup, so you don't need your own truck and trailer to rent a mini excavator or dozer. Call the store nearest your job site to schedule delivery and get a quote for your location.
Does the rental come with an operator?
No. Our rentals are bare equipment rentals without an operator. Make sure whoever runs the machine is qualified to operate it safely. If you're not sure which machine or attachment you need, our staff is happy to talk through your project before you rent.
Do I need to refuel the machine before I return it?
Yes. Please return equipment with a full tank of fuel, and a full tank of DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) on machines that use it. Equipment that comes back low will have a refueling service charge added.
What if a rental machine breaks down or needs repair?
Stop using it and call us right away. Please don't attempt repairs on rental equipment yourself. We also ask renters to give the machine a quick daily check of fluid levels and overall condition while it's on the job.
When can I pick up and return equipment?
Both locations are open Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed Saturday and Sunday. Returns need to be made during business hours on your scheduled return date. If you need more time, call us before your return date to extend your rental.
Buying Equipment
Do you sell new and used equipment?
Yes. We're an authorized Takeuchi dealer, and we also sell equipment from Bell, Hydrema, Dynapac, Husqvarna, JLG, Ammann, and Erskine. Browse new equipment sales, used skid steers for sale, and used mini excavators for sale, or call to ask about current inventory.
Do you offer equipment financing?
Yes, financing is available on new and used machines. Read our guide to financing your next machine to see what to expect, then contact our sales team to talk through options.
Should I rent or buy?
It depends on how often you'll use the machine and for how long. Renting usually makes sense for short or occasional jobs, while buying can pay off if you'll keep a machine busy most of the year. Our rent vs. buy guide breaks down the factors to consider.
Service and Parts
Do you service and repair equipment?
Yes. Our service department handles repairs and maintenance to keep your equipment running. Call our shop at (574) 862-3939 to schedule an appointment.
Can I buy parts from you?
Yes. Our parts department stocks OEM parts and can help you track down what you need. New stock parts can be returned within 30 days with a 30% restocking fee, or within 60 days with a 50% restocking fee. Some items, such as filters, gaskets, belts, hoses, electrical parts, and fluids, aren't returnable.
Locations and Service Area
Where are you located?
We have two full-service locations for rentals, sales, and parts:
Wakarusa Heavy Equipment, 66349 IN-19, Wakarusa, IN 46573. Phone (574) 862-7914.
Waterloo Heavy Equipment, 4723 US-6, Waterloo, IN 46793. Phone (260) 837-2205.
What areas do you serve?
We serve customers across northern Indiana, southern Michigan, and northwest Ohio, including Elkhart, Goshen, South Bend, Mishawaka, Warsaw, Fort Wayne, Auburn, Angola, Niles, Sturgis, Coldwater, Bryan, and Defiance. See the full list of communities on our locations page.
How do I reserve equipment?
Browse our rental catalog to check rates, then call the Wakarusa store at (574) 862-7914 or the Waterloo store at (260) 837-2205 to check availability and reserve your machine. You can also send us a message and our team will get back to you.