How to Rent a Skid Steer in Houston, TX

Renting a skid steer in Houston is straightforward when you understand the process. This guide covers everything from selecting the right machine to scheduling delivery and returning the equipment. Quality Rentals Delivered LLC operates a delivery-only rental model — we bring the machine to your site and pick it up when you're done.

Step 1: Determine Your Project Requirements

Before calling for a rental, identify what work the machine needs to accomplish. Common Houston projects include backyard grading, fence line preparation, drainage correction, driveway excavation, lot clearing, commercial pad prep, and foundation work. The type of project determines which machine you need.

For residential work on lots inside the Loop — where access through gates and narrow passages is common — the Bobcat T450 (55 HP, 1,400 lb capacity) is the standard choice. For commercial projects, land clearing, or any work requiring a mulcher attachment, the Bobcat T76 (74 HP, 2,300 lb capacity) is appropriate.

Step 2: Choose Your Rental Duration

Rental periods are available daily, weekly, and monthly. Most residential projects (grading a backyard, prepping for a fence, correcting drainage) complete within 1-3 days. Commercial site prep typically requires weekly or monthly rentals. Monthly rates offer the best per-day value for extended projects.

The Bobcat T450 rents at $295/day, $1,250/week, or $3,200/month. The Bobcat T76 rents at $375/day, $1,600/week, or $4,000/month. These rates do not include delivery fees.

Step 3: Confirm Your Delivery Zone

Houston is divided into two delivery zones. Inner Houston (inside Beltway 8) has a delivery fee of $125, which covers both delivery and pickup. Outer Houston (outside Beltway 8) has a delivery fee of $200. Call 713-766-0701 if you're unsure which zone applies to your location.

Step 4: Schedule Delivery

Call Quality Rentals Delivered LLC at 713-766-0701 to check availability and schedule your delivery. Same-day delivery is available for Inner Houston locations when equipment is in stock. Outer Houston deliveries are typically next-day. We coordinate delivery timing with you to ensure someone is on-site to receive the equipment.

Step 5: Prepare Your Site

Before delivery, ensure the delivery location is accessible for our flatbed trailer. Clear the staging area of vehicles, equipment, and obstacles. If the machine needs to access a backyard through a gate, confirm the gate width accommodates the machine dimensions. The T450 fits through most standard residential side gates.

For Houston properties, check the ground condition where the machine will be unloaded. Saturated clay surfaces may need to be avoided or reinforced for the trailer. Our delivery team will assess conditions on arrival and recommend positioning.

Step 6: Operate the Equipment

The renter is responsible for safe operation of the equipment. No CDL or special license is required to operate a skid steer on private property in Texas. However, operators should have experience with compact track loaders. Quality Rentals Delivered LLC does not provide operator training.

The machine arrives with a full tank of diesel. You are responsible for refueling during your rental period. Return the machine with a full tank to avoid fueling charges.

Step 7: Schedule Pickup

When your project is complete or your rental period ends, call to schedule equipment pickup. Position the machine in an accessible location for our flatbed. Ensure the machine is reasonably clean — excessive clay or debris buildup may result in cleaning fees.

Houston-Specific Considerations

Houston's clay soil conditions affect equipment operation year-round. During wet periods (October through May), clay becomes sticky and saturated, reducing traction and increasing the weight of excavated material. During dry periods (June through September), clay hardens significantly, requiring more power and potentially pre-wetting for excavation.

Flood-prone areas near Buffalo Bayou, Brays Bayou, and San Jacinto River may require special grade considerations. If your project is in a FEMA-designated floodplain, confirm grade requirements with your engineer before beginning work.