When working on construction or road repair projects, steel road plates are often needed to cover trenches or holes in the road. Steel road plates are essential for keeping traffic safe and allowing work to continue without disrupting daily activities.
However, renting steel road plates can be expensive, especially for long-term projects. If looking to cut costs without sacrificing quality or safety, this article provides some seven tips that will help you reduce the cost of hiring steel road plates.
1. Plan Ahead and Rent in Advance
One of the most effective ways to save money on steel road plates is to plan a project in advance. By knowing the exact number of plates needed and how long the rental will be, last-minute rentals, which often come with higher prices, can be avoided.
On top of that, renting in advance allows the rental company time to offer better rates and secure the necessary equipment for the project. Moreover, comparing prices from different suppliers helps in choosing the most cost-effective option.
2. Choose the Right Size and Type of Plate
Always remember that it is important to choose the correct size for the project. Renting larger plates than necessary will increase costs unnecessarily. On the other hand, smaller plates may not provide enough coverage, which can result in delays or safety issues. By carefully assessing the size and type of plate needed, unnecessary expenses on plates that don’t suit project requirements can be avoided.
3. Rent for a Longer Period
Sometimes, rental companies offer some deals for longer rental periods. If a project will take several weeks or even months, it might be more cost-effective to rent steel road plates for a longer duration rather than renewing the rental every few days or weeks.
Additionally, when you decide to hire steel road plates, make sure to discuss the rental terms with the company, as some offer cheaper rates for extended rentals. However, keep in mind that only rent for the period needed to avoid paying for unnecessary extra time.
4. Shop Around for the Best Rental Rates
Different rental companies may offer varying prices for steel road plates, so it’s important to shop around before making a final decision. That’s why you should look for companies in your area and get quotes from multiple suppliers to compare rates.
While getting a good deal is important, don’t sacrifice quality or customer service just for the sake of a cheaper price. Don’t forget to make sure that the company provides well-maintained plates and offers prompt delivery and pickup services.
5. Avoid Additional Fees and Charges
When renting steel road plates, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the rental agreement to avoid unexpected fees. Some rental companies may charge extra for delivery or even for the time it takes to load and unload the plates.
To keep costs down, try to minimize these extra charges. Ask the rental company to clarify what’s included in the base price and whether any hidden fees apply. Additionally, if transport can be arranged independently, this can save a significant amount on delivery costs.
6. Maintain the Plates During Rental
Once steel road plates are rented, it’s important to maintain the plates to avoid incurring extra costs. Rental companies will charge for damages or wear and tear caused by improper handling. To prevent this, make sure the plates are used correctly and stay in good condition.
Plus, avoid dropping or damaging the plates during transport, and keep the plates clean and free of debris. If the project requires heavy traffic to cross over the plates, ensure the plates are properly secured to prevent damage and ensure the safety of everyone on the site.
7. Consider Buying If You Need Plates Long-Term
If frequently requiring steel road plates for projects, it can be more cost-effective in the long run to purchase rather than rent. While the initial cost of buying the plates may be higher, owning equipment eliminates the need for ongoing rental fees.
Aside from that, if there is already a storage space to keep the plates, there won’t be a need to worry about rental time limits or return deadlines. Over time, the cost of buying plates may prove to be less expensive than constantly renting, especially if using them regularly.
Keeping Projects on Track and Within Budget!
Hiring steel road plates can be a significant expense for construction and road repair projects, but there are several ways to keep costs under control. By planning ahead, renting the right plates for project needs, shopping around for the best rates, and avoiding additional charges, rental costs can be reduced.
In addition, maintaining the plates during the rental period and considering purchasing plates for long-term use are other strategies to help save money. With these tips, a project can stay within budget while still maintaining safety and efficiency.
