Renting heavy equipment for the first time can feel like stepping into unknown territory. And in a place like Rawlins, where the next parts store or service center may be hours away, you want a clear picture of what the equipment rental process looks like before you commit.
The good news is that we’ve helped plenty of first-time renters (and experienced contractors!) in Carbon County, and the experience doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you can expect when you rent from Big Horn Machinery.
Key Takeaways
- Every renter gets a safety walkthrough before leaving our yard. Even if you’re not an experienced equipment operator, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable with the basics.
- Always call 811 — the free nationwide number that arranges for local utility companies to mark underground lines — at least 48 hours before digging. It can save you from costly and dangerous mistakes.
- We’ll help guide you to the right machine for your project. If you ask for the wrong tool, we’ll suggest something better suited. Safety is non‑negotiable. If a request puts you or the machine at risk, we’ll steer you toward a safer option.
- If we don’t have what you need, we’ll source it or connect you with another supplier.
This guide is meant to walk first-time renters in Rawlins through what really matters when renting equipment: safety basics, choosing the right machine, and how we go above and beyond for our customers.
Who We Serve
We rent equipment to a wide mix of people in Carbon County and southern Wyoming:
- Homeowners tackling DIY projects like digging a trench or clearing land.
- Ranchers who need machines for fence posts, hay handling, or seasonal jobs.
- Contractors who rely on us for skid steers, excavators, telehandlers, and even bigger equipment to keep projects on schedule.
At Big Horn, Safety Comes First
Excavators, skid steers, and telehandlers are powerful machines. They’ll move dirt, lift pallets, or haul debris without a problem. But they also demand respect.
Every renter who comes through our yard gets a hands-on walkthrough of the controls and safety features before leaving.
Our rental agreement makes it clear that you’re responsible for operating the machine correctly, but you’re not left on your own. If you want more than a quick overview, we have a trusted safety training company right next door that we can connect you with for in-depth instruction.
Picking the Right Equipment
First-time renters often ask for the wrong tool.
Maybe you think a skid steer will handle your trenching project, when in reality a mini excavator is the faster, safer bet.
We always start with a simple question: “What are you trying to do?” From there, we’ll walk you through which machine makes sense.
If you’re set on something specific, you can still rent exactly what you asked for. But our goal is to put you in the seat of the tool that saves you time and hassle.
And if we ever believe that a request could put you or the machine at real risk, we’ll be upfront about that. We reserve the right to steer you toward a safer option — because protecting people matters more than just getting a contract signed.
Always Call 811 Before You Dig
One of the easiest mistakes for new renters is forgetting what’s below the surface. Utilities like water, sewer, gas, or fiber optic lines may be closer than you think.
Hit one of those lines and the repair bill can run into the millions, especially if it’s fiber optic. That’s not a bill anyone wants to face.
That’s why we always tell customers: call 811 at least two business days before you dig. It’s a free nationwide service that dispatches local crews to mark the ground for underground utilities.
Here in Wyoming, those calls go straight to the right utility companies, so you’ll know exactly where it’s safe to work.
Skipping this step means you’re gambling with your wallet and safety. Calling 811 first gives you peace of mind and protection.
Simple Ways We Try To Go The Extra Mile
If you’ve never rented equipment in Wyoming before, it helps to know you’ll have backup when something unexpected comes up. We’ve built a reputation on stepping in.
One truck driver was stranded on the interstate without a key. Instead of leaving him to get one of our keys out to him, we ran one out so he could keep moving.
A contractor needed a custom socket for a one-off project. Our crew fabricated it in-house so they could finish on time.
An RV traveler’s generator went out in the middle of their trip. Even though we didn’t have the exact model for sale, we picked up the phone and called around Rawlins until we found what they needed.
These aren’t exceptions, they’re part of how we operate. We try to treat people like neighbors who need a hand.
If We Don’t Have The Equipment You’re Looking For…
Every job is different, and sometimes the exact piece of equipment you’re after isn’t sitting on our lot.
Instead of telling you “sorry,” we’ll either bring the equipment in or point you to another local supplier who has it.
That willingness to keep you moving is one of the biggest differences between us and a national chain.
Get Started With The Best Rental Equipment In Rawlins – Give Us A Call!
Renting equipment shouldn’t feel like a gamble, especially if it’s your first time! You deserve a Rawlins equipment rental company that makes the process clear, safe, and simple. With us, you’ll get three things every time: machines that are ready to work, honest guidance about which tool fits the job, and a crew that’s willing to go the extra mile when something unexpected comes up.
That’s the Big Horn difference.
Call today to schedule your rental and see how easy it is to get the right equipment lined up in Carbon County.
FAQs About Renting in Rawlins
Do I need experience to rent an excavator or skid steer?
While we love when renters have prior experience is required, we’ll give you a walkthrough of the controls. For full training, we connect you with a local safety training provider.
How long can I keep equipment?
We offer flexible rental periods. From daily to weekly to longer-term needs, we’ll work with your schedule.
Do you deliver equipment to ranches and job sites outside Rawlins?
Yes, we deliver throughout Carbon County and into southern Wyoming and northern Colorado.
What attachments are available with skid steers?
We stock a wide range: pallet forks, hay forks, sweepers, trenchers, post drivers, post hole diggers, and more.
What happens if the machine breaks down while I’m using it?
Call us right away. We’ll get you back up and running as quickly as possible, whether that means service or swapping machines.
