Key Takeaways
- Renting a bucket truck typically costs $200 to $600 per day, $1,000 to $2,500 per week, and up to $5,000 per month.
- Prices depend on factors like the location, truck model, and rental duration.
- Extra fees like delivery charges, fuel, and insurance can add to the overall cost.
- Renting a bucket truck is ideal for short-term projects and can save you from buying an expensive machine you’ll rarely use.
Introduction: Why You Should Rent, Not Buy, a Bucket Truck
Picture this: you’ve got a major job ahead. Maybe it’s trimming tree branches in your backyard, repairing your roof, or even setting up Christmas lights in the tallest tree on your block. You need a bucket truck to get up high, but there’s one little problem—you don’t have one sitting around.
Now, the thought of buying a bucket truck might cross your mind, but let’s be honest—unless you’re running a tree service or some other high-flying business, you don’t need one parked in your driveway for the other 364 days of the year. So, renting a bucket truck makes way more sense.
But here’s the catch: figuring out how much it’s going to cost you can feel like you’re trying to decode a secret language. Let’s break it down.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Bucket Truck? 2025 Pricing Breakdown
Average Daily Rates
- For a day-long rental, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $600. The variation in price depends largely on the location and the specific model of the bucket truck. Need a small, compact model for a few hours? You’ll be at the lower end of that range. Planning on something with a longer reach or more capabilities? The cost climbs.
Weekly Rentals
- If you’re tackling a bigger job and need the truck for a few days, a weekly rental might be the way to go. This typically runs from $1,000 to $2,500. The great thing here is the per-day price is often cheaper when you rent for a longer period.
Monthly Rentals
- For long-term projects or something like a roofing job that requires frequent use, a monthly rental can be anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000. Again, this will depend on the model, location, and any extras you need.
Factors That Affect Bucket Truck Rental Prices
Truck Size and Features
- There’s no “one-size-fits-all” bucket truck. From compact models that reach just a couple stories to giant cranes with 50-foot+ reach, the more powerful and larger the truck, the higher the cost. Also, additional features such as hydraulic arms or special stabilizing mechanisms can increase the price.
Location
- Where you rent the bucket truck matters. In larger cities, you’ll often pay a premium for rental services because of higher demand and delivery costs. If you’re renting in a rural area, expect lower rates, but you might need to factor in additional delivery fees.
Rental Duration
- Short-term rentals (just for a day or two) typically cost more per day than long-term rentals. So, if you can manage to stretch the work out, renting for a week or month could save you money in the long run.
Delivery and Pickup Fees
- Most companies charge extra to deliver the bucket truck to your location and to pick it up once you’re done. These fees range from $50 to $300, depending on how far the truck needs to be transported.
Insurance Costs
- Renting a bucket truck often comes with a hefty insurance fee. Basic insurance may be included in the rental price, but expect to pay extra for more comprehensive coverage. This can be anywhere from $15 to $50 per day, depending on the insurance policy.
Fuel Costs
- You’ll likely need to return the truck with a full tank of fuel, and if the truck’s a larger model, it could cost you $50 to $150 to fill it up. Some rental places offer fuel options where they charge you upfront for fuel and refund you if you return it full.
Should You Rent or Buy a Bucket Truck?
Renting a bucket truck is often far more economical than buying one, especially if you only need it for a short-term project. Here’s a breakdown of why renting can make more sense than purchasing:
Pros of Renting a Bucket Truck
- Lower upfront cost: You won’t have to drop tens of thousands of dollars on a truck you might only use a couple of times a year.
- Flexibility: Rent the exact truck you need for the job at hand, and return it when you’re done.
- Maintenance-free: The rental company takes care of all the maintenance and repairs.
- No storage: No need to find a place to store a giant bucket truck when you’re not using it.
Cons of Renting a Bucket Truck
- Daily and weekly costs can add up: While the per-day price might seem reasonable, long-term rentals can cost more than expected if your project takes longer.
- Availability: Popular truck models may be in high demand, especially during peak seasons.
Bucket Truck Rental for Specific Jobs
Tree Trimming
- Renting a bucket truck for tree trimming can save you a lot of effort and time. With a truck, you can easily reach branches high up in the tree, without risking a fall from a ladder. Costs for tree trimming rentals vary, but a good estimate for daily rentals is between $250 and $400.
Roofing Projects
- When it comes to roofing repairs or installation, a bucket truck allows you to safely access the roof without climbing ladders or scaffolding. Expect to pay around $300 to $500 per day, depending on your location and the truck you choose.
Light Installation
- Hanging Christmas lights or installing outdoor decorations can be dangerous without the right equipment. A bucket truck makes the task much easier. Renting one for a few days typically costs between $200 and $400.
Tips for Getting the Best Price on Bucket Truck Rentals
- Book in advance: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a better rate, especially during busy seasons.
- Compare rental companies: Don’t settle for the first price you find. Shop around and ask for quotes from multiple providers.
- Check for hidden fees: Always ask if there are any additional costs like delivery, fuel, or insurance before you sign the contract.
- Consider a longer rental: If you can stretch your project out, you may save money by renting for a week or a month.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for a daily rental. The price varies depending on the model and location.
Basic insurance is often included in the rental price, but additional coverage may cost extra. Always ask about insurance costs before renting.
Yes, fuel costs are typically the responsibility of the renter. If the truck isn’t returned full, you may face additional fuel charges.
Absolutely! Bucket trucks are commonly rented for tree trimming jobs. They provide the height and stability needed to safely trim branches.
Check online rental marketplaces, local equipment rental companies, or construction equipment suppliers. Many of them offer bucket trucks for rent.
Summary
Renting a bucket truck is a cost-effective solution for short-term projects that require reaching heights safely. Whether you’re trimming trees, repairing your roof, or setting up lights, renting can save you the hassle of owning expensive machinery. Be sure to factor in all costs—like insurance, delivery, and fuel—before you sign the rental agreement. By understanding the price breakdown and following a few smart tips, you’ll find the best deal to get the job done right.
