Forklifts are necessary in warehouses and industrial settings, but companies don't always need one available all the time. Many companies offer forklift leasing and rental to businesses. You can rent and lease forklifts for any length of time that you need to. If you only need a forklift on a seasonal basis or to handle a special workload, consider short term rentals. Companies that use forklifts regularly also might need a forklift rental if their forklifts break. Some companies choose to lease forklifts in order to have the newest, best-operating equipment at their disposal.

A forklift lease or rental can be for just about any length of time -- daily, weekly, monthly or even rent-to-own. Most forklift rental companies will deliver the forklift to your business, and many will even provide service and repairs throughout the length of the lease.

Keep the following points in mind before renting a forklift:

1. Know how long you will need to rent the forklift.

2. Find a local forklift lease or rental company that delivers equipment quickly.

3. Compare dealers to make sure that you’re getting the best rate.

4. Compare forklift models to make sure you’re renting the right forklift for your job.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for local dealers who offer forklift rentals

Especially for a short-term forklift rental, it is best to use a local dealer who can deliver the forklift to you and also provide maintenance and repairs, should that be necessary.

I recommend: Rental Site and ThomasNet.com both offer extensive listings of companies that offer forklift truck rental and leasing.

Make sure you're getting a good deal in the price you pay for forklift rental and forklift leasing

Prices can vary greatly between dealers, so you need to make sure that the price you're quoted is the right price.

I recommend: Buyer Zone has customer response about forklift rental costs, an article about how to rent and lease a forklift and a customizable form that you can use to get quotes from dealers.

Check out forklift manufacturers

Many manufacturers offer their forklifts for lease and also offer service plans with the lease.

I recommend: Mitsubishi and Toyota both offer forklift leases. Toyota also has information on financing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many companies that offer forklift rentals often offer service plans as well. Make sure you take advantage of this cost-saving feature.