Vehicle Solutions for Your Tent Rental Business
Whether you’re just starting out, or have been in the tent rental business awhile, it’s important to have the right vehicle for the job. The best approach is to choose the vehicle for the load you typically have, then decide whether to buy, rent or lease.
What Size Job Does Your Tent Rental Company Do?
If you mostly book small jobs, a cargo van may be just right for you. If you choose one with a high top, it’ll allow plenty of room for hauling tables, tents and bounce houses. Add a lift for painless loading and unloading. The flexibility, gas mileage and maneuverability with a cargo van makes it a great choice for delivery and setup.
Alternatively, a heavy-duty pickup truck with a long bed is another solution for small to mid-sized jobs. Just make sure it’s suited for hauling heavy tents, poles and equipment. A one-ton pickup can easily handle your tent rental company loads.
For versatility of your fleet, you may choose to add a trailer to haul with either the cargo van or pickup. A dual-axle trailer makes hauling extra loads a cinch. Be sure it has ramps for easy loading and unloading, too. Just making general deliveries? Leave it behind. There’s so much flexibility!
If you need a tent rental vehicle that is bigger and able to haul heavy equipment, a box truck from 16 to 26 feet is the next step up. These are great for delivery and set up, with good maneuverability in the city.
Should You Get a Gas or Diesel Truck?
There are pros and cons to both. Gas trucks are ideal for local deliveries. If your tent rental business takes you on the road, the diesel truck is the better option. It’s great for long distance and heavy hauling. Initially, the diesel truck cost purchase price is higher, but it is more fuel efficient. Compare vehicle fuel types, then choose what best fits your needs.
Purchase or Lease Your Tent Rental Vehicle?
After you’ve decided which vehicle you want for your tent rental business, consider whether to purchase or lease. Be sure to compare the upfront costs associated with both. Maybe consider purchasing a used vehicle or using U-Haul flat-rate trailers if you’re new to the business, but don’t sacrifice reliability or it will cost you money and possibly your reputation. Dependability in this business is non-negotiable. Your customers are relying on you to make their special event perfect.
Decisions, Decisions…
Seasoned tent rental companies know that choosing the right vehicle is important for the type of tent rental projects you have. Start by comparing load potential, overall size, cost and versatility, then decide whether you’ll purchase, rent or lease. By doing your homework up front, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you have made the right decision for your business.
