Two choices,

Endless possibilities

The decision whether to buy or rent specialized pipeline equipment is very complex, as the pipeline industry is continuously developing. In order to get to the root of this complex decision, Maats Pipeline Professionals, the Netherlands, will analyze the different factors affecting a contractor’s final decision and the selection of supplier. The constant development of the pipeline industry leads to progressing quality of pipeline construction meaning that its technical possibilities are considerably growing. Whilst this development process brings great value to all parties involved, it does make some aspects of decision making more complex, especially when facing the task of composing and managing a fleet of specialized equipment. 

When talking about pipeline construction equipment, certain questions will always return. The decision whether to buy or rent the equipment is one of these, as there are multiple factors to take into consideration making it a more complex matter. Due to these factors, each situation can lead to a different conclusion. Due to the fact that Maats Pipeline Professionals has nearly 40 years of experience with selling and renting equipment in this industry, their understanding of the market grew, leading to a broader understanding of various aspects contractors take into consideration when deciding on their equipment and whether this should be rented or bought. Below we have pointed out the main aspects that you as a contractor could take into consideration and help you in future decision making.

The first and foremost aspect to take into consideration when buying or renting equipment, is the financial aspect. This aspect will always be one of the most complex to decide upon. This, as various factors are to be taken into account to determine the most profitable option. The initial investment when buying or renting equipment is the most obvious factor that determines the decision. In this complex situation, both options have their advantages and disadvantages of course. With buying, for example, the costs might be high, but tax regulations can be more favorable. However, when buying a machine, the hourly costs, depreciation and service life should be taken into consideration as well to base your choice upon. On the other hand, renting ensures you having lower costs with an improved cash flow, when the funds of purchasing are unavailable.

Besides the financial aspect, non-static factors such as preferences, circumstances and conditions that cannot be measured like financial data weigh in on the decision making as well. In this, the availability is a relatively large factor to keep in mind. In order to assure this, buying may seem like the preferable option, but when working on multiple projects simultaneously, planning and logistics are often complex and lead to a bigger issue than foreseen. In this case, renting equipment from a specialized rental company, that has sufficient availability, can provide a convenient solution and making the choice for rental worthwhile.

Another important step in the decision-making process is selecting the right supplier for both rental and purchasing. When purchasing the equipment yourself, it means that you are in full control of every aspect. This is a different case when renting the equipment, as you have to put your trust into a company of your choice. In this case, certain selection criteria for choosing a company should be set up. One of the main criteria that a rental company should have is reliability. This, as you should have the comfort that the rental company takes on your planning and logistics. Basically, if a company chooses to rent from a specialized company in pipeline equipment, you not only hire the equipment itself, but also their expertise and service. The advantage that this has, is that the company will not only provide you with a wide range of equipment and accessories, but also with the guidance of the project as well as the service you require. On top of that, a rental company will make sure that maintenance and repairs will be carried out, so that downtime will be kept to a bare minimum. This will only be made easier with a strategic location of the rental company itself.

It is, and will always be, a complex decision on whether you should buy or rent equipment. However, when making this decision certain aspect are to be taken into mind. These aspects are criteria such as the financial situation, the preference, circumstances, conditions, the number of projects, the availability of your own equipment and the comfort you have with trusting a rental company. In other words, selecting a supplier is not a simple matter. But when you do find a trustworthy partner, you will be provided with not only a broad understanding of the market and services, but also with high quality equipment. Finding this partner is not only an added value for your company, but will also be of extra value to your project.