Is it better to rent or own a bedding box? Well that depends…
If your crew regularly uses bedding or gravel boxes, you’ve likely asked the question: Is it worth buying one instead of renting?
This calculator helps you make that decision with real-world cost logic—factoring in rental rates, purchase prices, maintenance, resale value, and utilization frequency.
The process eliminates double handling of material. Instead of repeatedly traveling back to a pile, the operator simply drags the bedding box forward along the trench line as work progresses.
If you use a box more than 8–10 times per year, buying usually beats renting.
If you only need one for a few weeks, renting keeps costs predictable and eliminates storage or maintenance expenses.
Using a bedding box on a job can help you bid more aggressively, it also helps jobs get completed quicker so you
You only use bedding boxes on one or two short projects per year
You have limited storage or frequently work out of different regions
You’re testing out different box sizes before committing to a purchase
VS
You operate in municipal or utility trenching year-round
You frequently rent the same size box every month
You want to build equity in your equipment fleet
You can offset costs by renting your box to other contractors during downtime
Enter your project details, and the calculator will automatically compare your annual rental costs against long-term ownership costs to reveal your breakeven point and estimated savings.
A bedding box is more than a container, it’s a productivity tool.
Whether you buy or rent, the right box can transform how efficiently your crew moves material, controls waste, and manages time on the job. Contractors who use them regularly often find that ownership pays for itself quickly, while those with occasional or seasonal work may benefit from short-term rental flexibility.
Choosing the right size for your excavator and project ensures you move material efficiently, save fuel, and protect your bottom line.
Want to order over the phone or inquire regarding pricing discounts ordering multiple bedding boxes? Skip the cart, call us direct!
