Why are rental trucks the most basic, least optioned vehicles?

Discussion in 'LTL and Local Delivery Trucking Forum' started by Ddr1992 579, Mar 29, 2021.

  1. Ddr1992 579

    Ddr1992 579 Medium Load Member

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    Is it true that if rental truck companies optioned their trucks better that they would have more and repeat customers? Could someone explain this?
     
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  3. Arctic_fox

    Arctic_fox Experienced mx13 execrator

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    Most drivers treat their companys equipment like trash. And rentals get it far far far worse. Rental companys are reluctant to pay 1 red cent more then required for a loaner because its going to get #### on constantly.

    There is a reason old rentals go for WAY cheaper on average then other vehicles.
     
  4. bzinger

    bzinger Road Train Member

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    Ever rented a mule ? Or car? Lol
     
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  5. MACK E-6

    MACK E-6 Moderator Staff Member

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    The companies bear part of the blame for that. That’s what you get when you hire non-drivers, put them in a truck, and then decide to tolerate their behavior.

    Rental outfits on the other hand have to go through different channels to pursue some type of recourse after finding they rented a truck to a pig after the fact.
     
  6. Dave1837

    Dave1837 Road Train Member

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    Generally whoever is renting the truck just needs something to get the job done, they really don't need all the bells and whistles. Plus it'll probably come back trashed anyway, so why doll it up?
     
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  7. Colt6920

    Colt6920 Light Load Member

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    There's like 2 big rental companies. So not much competititon.
    Also, most customers that are renting a truck really only care if it is a truck. And if you need a truck you take what you can get.
    Short term rental customers, they need a truck because theirs broke down, or they need more trucks for a little while, or they just need something bigger for a day. Those customers aren't going to change their habits based on what options the truck has, either they need a truck or they don't. If they need a truck they will take whatever, and if they don't no amount of options will make them waste money on a truck rental.
    For leases, these guys want to save money, so no real need for options. And for the ones that do Ryder and Penske will allow you to spec whatever options you want on a long term lease, if you are willing to pay.
     
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  8. #1 Kenworth

    #1 Kenworth Light Load Member

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    Used to rent the big Ryders years ago. The local guy always gave me a nice newer one as I always took care of it. Even if it was only for a day or two. Sometimes I had to rent a pig and always made left my comments saying so!!!
     
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