Renting Laser Equipment--What are the hidden costs?

Besides the basic rental fee, what other hidden costs might you incur? We've compiled a list of the most common "traps" -transportation and installation costs, consumables and maintenance costs, insurance and breach of contract fees-to help you avoid them and keep your budget under control!

Things to consider before renting a laser.

Never think that cheap rents are a good thing in themselves. There could be many hidden pitfalls.Here are a few hidden costs that many people have stumbled over.

Who will pay for transportation and installation?

Some rental companies do not include transport costs in their quotes, especially for cross-regional rentals. The logistics costs for large pieces of equipment may be much higher than you imagine.For example, if you want to move a large laser cutting machine, you need a specially equipped truck and tools. If you don't find out about the cost of this in advance, it can cost you thousands of dollars in no time.The same goes for installation and adjustment costs. Don't assume that the other party will take care of these for free. Make sure to confirm these details before signing any contract.

Don't forget about maintenance costs.

The mirrors, gases and cooling fluids used in lasers are all consumables, like the ink cartridges in a printer.Some contracts stipulate "maintenance included," but replacement of expendable supplies might be charged on a per-visit basis.The worst case I've ever encountered is when a user has to pay for a replacement lens that costs more than the rental fee for three days.You should ask for a list of consumables and the prices for them, and if you can, get the prices written into the contract.

Insurance and penalty clauses are often overlooked.

How much should the government compensate them for damages?

Most car rental agencies require that customers take out insurance, but there is a wide range of coverage and deductibles.For example, some insurance policies will only pay for 30 % of the cost of repairing a laser head damaged by user error, leaving the rest for the user to pay.Two things to pay particular attention to: First, what situations are excluded from coverage. Second, how long does it take to process a claim?

Why should they have to pay more for repaying the loan early?

Temporary adjustments If you try to return equipment early, be careful of penalty fees. Some contracts stipulate that if the rental period is less than three months, you are charged for three months. Or, a 20 % penalty fee may be charged.On the other hand, if one uses the car beyond the allotted time, the additional charges can also be exorbitant.Before signing the contract, take a pen and circle the rental period and rules, and confirm with the other party the areas of flexibility.

This way you can save a lot.

When you're negotiating with the lessor, don't just ask about the total price.Here is a checklist for you to use:

1. Does the price include transportation, installation, and basic training?

2. The cost of replacing expendable parts (it is best to give specific examples).

3. What kinds of damage are covered?

4. How are fees charged for changes in the lease period?

Write all the details of the agreement into the contract, and take photos if necessary to keep as evidence.We can't afford to be ripped off by hidden costs!