A bucket truck is a type of aerial lift handy for when your workplace moves high above ground level. With its large platform and sturdy design, it provides much greater stability than a ladder, especially for jobs lasting more than a few moments, or which require a variety of tools at different stages of the project.

However, the cost of purchasing a bucket truck may be prohibitive, especially if you only need it for a short while. This is where rental options enter the picture. You get the safety and stability of the platform, without the significant investment of a purchase.

Benefits of a Bucket Truck

The applications and uses of a bucket truck are numerous and include work on utilities, lights and signage, landscaping and agriculture, construction, and filmmaking.

The main selling point of this equipment is its safe design and operation. Personnel easily work in high and difficult to reach places, with convenient access to tools and other work equipment. Design choices include telescopic and articulating. Telescopic configurations allow easy height adjustments, while articulating bucket trucks allow safe horizontal movement.

Points to Consider Before Renting A Bucket Truck

Special units: A wide variety of industries use bucket trucks, with some requiring special units. For example, some applications require lifts with boom sections and fiberglass buckets. The variety of these options affects the total rental price of the unit.

Working heights: If your work requirements include working at significant heights, you may need supplemental items to ensure safety. Look for a rental company that provides outriggers, as these offer greater stability for the unit and help to prevent slipping. Height capacity also plays a role in determining rental price.

Reputation: Before renting any equipment, consider the qualifications and professional reputation of the vendor. You want a company that offers ample support, takes care of its equipment, and clearly explains the charges and what you get for what you pay. Request a clear accounting of these costs and what the vendor delivers before signing on the dotted line.

Sample Prices for Bucket Truck Rental

Rental rates vary considerably based on a variety of factors, including model, the type of lift, how long you need the unit, and even where you live. One of the greatest pricing factors is the height limit. Make sure you rent a machine that easily reaches your height requirements, but don't rent more machine than you need. If your project requires a 20' reach, there's no need to pay extra for a machine with a 60' capacity.

Another potential cost is delivery. Check with every vendor to determine the cost to transport the machine. In addition, ask about the logistics of transporting the machine yourself.

Finally, some vendors assign an operator for any machine they rent. Determine the cost difference between renting equipment with a vendor-supplied operator and the cost of paying someone from your own team to perform this task (assuming you have anyone on your team qualified to operate a bucket truck).

On average, you'll pay around $160 per day to rent a bucket truck. That's the average, though. You can find hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly rental rates. Sample rental prices include:

·         An electric unit rents for between $150 and $200 per hour

·         A bucket truck with a single operator rents for $175 to $200 per hour

·         A bucket truck with two operators rents for around $235 per hour

·         A 60' truck with one operator runs between $400 and $700 per day

·         Average hourly rent on a 56' truck is $60 per hour

·         The average rental price for a 42' to 60' truck is $700 per week or $3,250 per month