Excavators are heavy duty pieces of equipment used in construction used for digging holes and often times referred to as diggers and backhoes.  They are also used in other industries such as landscaping, mining, dredging rivers, demolition, and material handling.  They come in various sizes, so there is bound to be one to fit your needs.  The mini excavators or compact excavators are useful for smaller jobs.  If you need to rent a mini excavator, there are certain things you need to look for.  

Size

Although called mini or compact excavators, even the smaller ones are heavy. Because the mini excavators are used for regular jobs around the home or on a small farm, many manufacturing companies are designing the mini excavators to have more power; preventing the need to rent a larger excavator.  Consider how you will use the excavator and the available space.  If the space is limited, you will definitely want to consider a smaller, tougher version of the mini excavators.

Operation

Whether you are a pro or a novice, you will still want a mini excavator that is easy to operate.  If the job will require several hours, cab space will be an important rental consideration.  Can you operate the equipment for a lengthy period in the small cab space?  If the control to operate the mini excavator is difficult, you many become weary quickly. 

History

Before you rent a mini-excavator, you need to know the history of the equipment.  How old is the piece of equipment?  How often is it serviced and by whom?  Is the inspection report available for you to review?  Try to rent mini excavator that is less than three years old.  If this is not feasible, request and review the inspection report.  You will also want to know what type environment the equipment was used.  Extreme weather, hot or cold, can damage the equipment, so knowing the environment will help you know what areas of the excavator to pay special attention, during your pre-rental inspection.

Rates

Of course the rental rate for a mini excavator will vary depending on the type excavator you decide to rent, the age of the equipment, and how long you need it.  Most equipment rental companies have daily, weekly, and monthly rental rates.  If you need the mini excavator for a longer period, that is an option with some rental companies also.

Be a wise shopper.  Compare several rental options from several rental equipment companies (such as Rentals And More Inc).  Narrow down the mini excavator choices you feel will best meet your needs.  Ask plenty of questions, look at the inspection reports for the pieces of equipment, and do an inspection yourself.  Make sure you understand how the machine operates and request an onsite test drive before you take it home.