According to the American Rental Association (ARA), equipment theft inflicts a staggering $100 million in annual losses on the rental industry, with over 360 machines disappearing each month. Such crimes not only drain business resources but also threaten the stable operation of critical infrastructure projects nationwide.
The impact of equipment theft extends far beyond one-time financial losses. It drives up insurance premiums and rental costs, disrupts the supply of essential machinery, delays vital infrastructure progress, and leaves the entire industry—which relies on efficient operations—in turmoil. Once equipment is taken off rental yards or job sites by fraudulent renters or thieves, recovery is nearly impossible. Perpetrators often resell targeted Engineering construction equipment like excavator, bulldozer, and Road roller through black markets or online platforms to unsuspecting buyers.
ARA Takes Multi-Pronged Approach to Combat Crime
To address the escalating equipment theft crisis, the ARA has launched urgent collaborations with law enforcement to raise national awareness. At a press event hosted by Ritchie Bros Auctioneers in Morris, Illinois, the ARA announced a new Anti-Theft and Recovery Program to help rental businesses identify risks and prevent theft. Law enforcement released guidelines for rapid and effective crime reporting, emphasizing timeliness.
Rental companies shared on-site case studies highlighting the urgency of enhanced preventive measures. Beyond raising vigilance, the ARA also introduced the Equipment Rental Guard (ERG), a comprehensive security solution providing tools for tenant screening and asset protection. The ERG includes training courses, SMS alerts for high-risk tenants, a national database of problematic renters and stolen equipment, identity verification, as well as reporting guidance, financial security tools, and free legal support.
ARA CEO Tony Conant stated, “Equipment theft affects every member of our association, regardless of size. The ERG program tackles the issue from multiple angles, and members who fully utilize it will significantly reduce theft risks.” David Skala, manager of B.I. Rentals in Homer Glen, Illinois, added, “Industry-wide collaboration is critical. This challenge requires participation from every stakeholder—otherwise, progress is impossible. All the tools ARA has introduced are highly practical, and we look forward to rapid implementation.”
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