Whether you need to dig a trench or condition soil, a skid steer is the perfect machine for the job. If you are tight on time or have a strict budget, renting is superior to buying — you don’t have to worry about maintenance, technology add-ons or long-term investment implications.
To rent a skid steer, you need to speak with a heavy equipment provider. Local dealers can streamline the process because they have dedicated teams in place. Additionally, they are highly knowledgeable, enabling them to guide your decision-making process. Where can you find the best rental stores in Northern Virginia?
What Are the Best Places to Rent a Skid Steer?
You can rent a skid steer from heavy equipment rental companies, large home improvement stores or online platforms for classified advertisements, such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Generally, the first option is the best because it offers the most variety. Also, you gain access to a dedicated team whose sole job is to support you.
Renting from chain home improvement stores is typically more expensive. Moreover, since they often only require customers to have a valid driver’s license, you may get a damaged piece of equipment. The sales associates are not certified or trained to work on these machines, so they may unknowingly rent you a defective item. If it fails during your rental period, you may be stuck with the bill.
Companies that specialize in heavy equipment perform inspections between each rental to ensure everything is in good condition. Many businesses have dedicated maintenance and customer support teams, so they can assist you with everything from selecting the best model for your project to troubleshooting mechanical issues on-site.
Methodology for Choosing the Best Equipment Suppliers
The top heavy equipment suppliers were carefully selected for their extensive, diverse inventories. If you need to navigate a tight space, compact machinery is ideal for the job. However, when you need to trench a large area, you want equipment with a large operating capacity. Having a wide range of models, sizes and loads allows them to meet your project’s needs better.
Attachment variety is another important criterion. It is not a dealbreaker, but it does add value to rental services. The standard multipurpose bucket is practical, but augers, hydraulic hammers or mulchers may suit your needs better. Companies that offer a broad selection rank above those that don’t.
The best suppliers go beyond the initial rental stage, offering value-adding services like equipment delivery, on-site maintenance, emergency repairs and ongoing customer support. Some of the larger companies provide advanced technology features, online management platforms or centralized data dashboards.
6 Best Equipment Suppliers in Northern Virginia
Whatever you need, these suppliers can provide you with a solution. Their high-quality product lineups and years of top-notch customer service make them the best choices for skid steer rental in northern Virginia and the surrounding states.
- GT Mid Atlantic
GT Mid Atlantic has eight locations and is well-equipped to serve northern Virginia, Philadelphia, Maryland, Delaware, Washington D.C. and New Jersey. It is an officially licensed dealer for over 30 of the top heavy equipment brands.
It stocks various new, used and rental equipment, so it has a relatively large inventory. In addition, it provides value-adding services such as same-day parts shipping, on-site servicing and equipment delivery.
Skid Steers for Rent
GT Mid Atlantic is an excellent choice if you want to rent a skid steer but are on a tight budget, as it offers competitive rates. It also provides various deals and specials throughout the year, as well as daily, weekly and monthly rentals.
| Model | SR160 | SR175 | SV185 | SR210 | SR240 | SR270 | SR280 | SV340 | TS80R2 | TS80V2 |
| Horsepower | 57 | 64 | 57 | 68 | 68 | 84 | 68 | 84 | 74 | 74 |
| Capacity | 1,600 lbs. | 1,750 lbs. | 1,850 lbs. | 2,100 lbs. | 2,400 lbs. | 2,700 lbs. | 2,800 lbs. | 3,400 lbs. | 7,950 lbs. | 8,965 lbs. |
- Winchester Equipment Co.
In 1957, a group of local farmers and orchardists founded Winchester Equipment Co. to meet the area’s agricultural equipment needs. Since then, it has expanded into construction, material handling and outdoor power equipment. It is still locally owned and operated.
It primarily serves the Winchester area, but its service area extends across the state. It has five convenient locations in Bristow, Virginia Beach, Ashland and Harrisonburg.
Skid Steers for Rent
Winchester Equipment offers models from Krone, Stihl®, Cima, Kubota, JLG and eXmark. It is also an authorized Bobcat® and Toyota dealer. Since it has daily, weekly and monthly rentals, you have maximum schedule flexibility. Contact the rental department for information on specific models and specifications.
For added protection, you can enroll in the Rental Protection Plan, which offers additional coverage for unplanned accidents. It is a partial waiver of claims for damage or destruction, not insurance or a warranty.
- Excel Equipment
Excel Equipment has branches in Roanoke, Fisherville, Tidewater, Ashland and Lynchburg, so you will not have to drive far to pick up your heavy equipment rental. If you live far away, you can use transport services to have the machine delivered to your jobsite.
Skid Steers for Rent
Unlike many other companies, Excel offers long-term rentals. Whether you need your rented skid steer for weeks, months or even longer, it has you covered. Since it offers a full-service rental program, dedicated staff are available for assistance day or night, even on the weekends.
If you experience a mechanical issue during your long-term rental, factory-certified technicians can provide roadside or on-site maintenance. After-hours and emergency repair services are also available. These professionals can work on all makes and models.
- Brandywine Rentals
Family-owned heavy equipment rental company Brandywine Rentals has been passed down through three generations of the Meinhardt family. Its founders had decades of industry experience when they established the business in 1995.
It serves homeowners and large construction companies in Washington, D.C., and the northern Virginia area. It is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and by appointment on Saturdays.
Skid Steers for Rent
The skid steer brands include Vermeer, Bobcat, Takeuchi and Cat. Each product listing displays the daily, weekly and monthly rental rates, so you can compare prices at a glance. The supplier also provides attachments, including hydraulic hammers, augers, buckets, pallet forks, soil conditioners, mulchers and trenchers.
It has a fleet of professional drivers throughout the Washington, D.C., metro area. They can deliver equipment to Virginia and Maryland, with hourly or project-based pricing. There are also trained mechanics and technicians who can provide prompt repairs as needed.
| Model | S925TX | S590 | 262D3 | TL8R2 | TL12 V2 |
| Horsepower | 25 | 68 | 74 | 74.3 | 111 |
| Capacity | 925 lbs. | 6,765 lbs. | 8,945 lbs. | 2,105 lbs. | 4,107 lbs. |
- The Cat® Rental Store
The Cat® Rental Store’s dealer network has over 1,300 locations, many of which are located in Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Delaware. Nearby branches include Fisherville, Manassas, Warrenton, Fredericksburg and Charlottesville.
You can access the full selection of Cat machinery and attachments. The local dealers also carry equipment from over 70 top rental brands, including Bomag, Thompson Pump and Carmix.
Renting from an authorized Cat dealer gives you access to new technologies like the Cat Product Link™, which offers accurate, timely information about the location and condition of heavy machinery. You also get access to centralized management dashboards that provide a comprehensive overview of on-rent equipment.
Skid Steers for Rent
Although there are technically 13 skid steer loaders available for rent, the selection at your local dealers may differ. The network offers both standard and compact styles, which is ideal if you need to move a lot of earth or navigate narrow spaces. The attachment inventory includes augers, blades, brooms, pallet forks, hammers, mulchers and buckets.
| Model | 226 | 232 | 236 | 246 | 262 | 272 | CTX100 | TXL2000T | S925TX | CTX160 |
| Horsepower | 67.1 | 67.1 | 74.3 | 74.3 | 74.3 | 98 | 40 | 50 | 25 | 40 |
| Capacity | 1,500 lbs. | 1,900 lbs. | 1,800 lbs. | 2,200 lbs. | 2,700 lbs. | 3,450 lbs. | 1,050 lbs. | 2,000 lbs. | 925 lbs. | 1,600 lbs. |
- United Rentals
As one of the largest equipment rental companies worldwide, United Rentals is well-positioned to offer skid steer rental services near you. It has an integrated network of over 1,500 dealer locations in North America alone, operating in 49 states. Its Manassas branch serves northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.
You can pick up your rental yourself or request delivery. If you need help moving it, this supplier offers trailer rentals. After pickup, the customer care team is available 24/7 to assist with any issues that arise. The team provides a range of value-adding services, including maintenance and emergency response.
Skid Steers for Rent
While there are several types of skid steer loaders available for rent, availability differs depending on the location you use. Each Cat Class offered comprises several models. For instance, Cat Class 903-0045 may include the John Deere 312G, John Deere 314G or Bobcat S510. Visit your local dealer’s page for more information.
| Model | Class 903-0008 | Class 903-0015 | Class 903-0045 | Class 903-0071 | Class 903-0080 | Class 903-0090 | Class 903-0106 | Class 903-0105 |
| Horsepower | 4 | 24 | 48 to 55 | 55 to 61 | 61 to 68 | 68 to 74 | 74 | 68 to 75 |
| Capacity | 400 to 500 lbs. | 700 lbs. | 1,500 to 1,800 lbs. | 1,700 to 1,900 lbs. | 1,900 to 2,000 lbs. | 2,100 to 2,200 lbs. | 2,500 to 2,900 lbs. | 2,800 to 3,000 lbs. |
What You Should Know Before Renting a Skid Steer
These reputable providers will guide you through any major decision to find the perfect machine for your project and budget. However, you should familiarize yourself with the basics to help point them in the right direction.
The Type of Skid Steer
Before renting a skid steer loader, you should consider which model best suits your needs. While almost all models are highly maneuverable, miniature versions are particularly well-suited for navigating tight spaces, such as alleyways.
Consider the mechanical features you prefer. Tires are great for working on flat surfaces and offer better speeds. Depending on the model, you may get to choose between two- or four-wheel drive. Tracks perform better on soft, uneven terrain.
Fuel is another consideration. Battery-powered machines are more sustainable than those with combustion engines — and they may be more cost-effective to refuel — but not all providers offer them. Also, they may not be suitable if you do not have charging infrastructure nearby.
The Type of Attachment
The multipurpose bucket that comes standard on skid steers can perform tasks like digging, grading, material handling, trenching and demolition. If your needs are more specialized, you will need an attachment.
Your options include grapplers, pallet forks, soil conditioners, trenchers, blades, brush cutters and rakes. Some providers offer quick-attachment pieces, which you can easily take on and off. They are ideal for time-sensitive or involved projects.
Any Additional Services
Consider whether you may need a rental protection plan, insurance coverage, centralized management platform, repair services or equipment delivery. These services may cost extra, but they can help streamline your project and prevent you from incurring financial losses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skid Steer Rental
Even if you know exactly which business you want to rent a skid steer from, you may still have knowledge gaps. These frequently asked questions may provide answers. If you want to know more about rates or rental periods, you should contact the local dealer directly.
Do I Need a License to Operate a Skid Steer?
You can sometimes operate smaller heavy equipment without a license or registration certificate. Some road construction and farm equipment are exempt from licensure laws, according to the Code of Virginia. Even if the state lets you drive heavy machinery on public roads without a license, some rental companies require you to possess a valid driver’s license.
Will I Need Insurance to Rent a Skid Steer?
Many businesses require you to get insurance before they will rent to you. Typically, rental protection plans do not fall under this umbrella, as they are considered waivers of claims rather than insurance or warranties. The specifics vary from place to place.
What Size Skid Steer Will I Need for my Project?
Compact skid steers are ideal for light-duty plowing, trenching, and backfilling in narrow or enclosed spaces. Midsized models are excellent for various earthmoving applications, including leveling, loading, material handling and clearing. You will want a larger machine if you plan on conducting heavy-duty trenching or demolition tasks.
How Much Is It to Rent a Skid Steer Per Day?
Rental rates vary widely depending on the model and company you select. Also, many suppliers charge different hourly and daily rates. You must also factor in taxes, fees, insurance and any optional add-ons. You can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per day. If that seems too steep, consider extending your rental period for a lower average cost.
Steps to Take Before Finalizing Your Decision
Before you rent a skid steer, remember to consider your project and budget needs. Even if you find a model, horsepower and operating capacity that meet your needs, you should reach out to various local dealers for more in-depth information on the rental process and requirements.
