Towable generators are hired by kW, and the number that matters is the load at the moment motors start rather than the load once everything is running. A 20 kW unit runs about $150 to $250 a day, and a 125 kW machine several times that, with a weekly rate that is usually far better value. Fuel state on return and the cable to reach the panel are separate lines on the quote.
Size on starting load, not running load
Motors draw several times their running current for a moment at start up, so a set sized on running watts stalls when the compressor or the pump kicks in. List every motor load, its size, and whether more than one starts at once. Give that list to the yard and let them size it rather than guessing upward.
Day, week, month and the fuel line
A week commonly costs about three to four day rates and a month around three weeks, so anything over a few days should be booked long. Fuel is charged separately, usually filled at delivery and topped up on return at the yard's rate. Ask what that rate is, because refuelling it yourself is generally cheaper.
Voltage, phase and the cable nobody ordered
Confirm single or three phase, the voltage, and the connector type on the panel before delivery, then hire the distribution board and cable at the same time. Cable is hired by the length and run and is the item most often forgotten. A generator sitting beside a panel it cannot connect to is a wasted day.
Towing it yourself, and where it sits
A small towable sits within many half ton pickup ratings; larger sets do not, and their trailers have brakes and specific coupler types. Check the rating and the plug. On site, keep it level, clear of the building for exhaust and noise, and on ground firm enough that the tank weight does not sink it.
Questions people ask about towable generator rental
What size generator does a jobsite need?
Add the running load of everything that will be on at once, then account for the largest motor starting against that total. Small trailer sets around 20 kW cover tools, lighting and a welder. Temporary power for a whole building, or a pump and a chiller together, moves quickly into the 100 kW class and beyond.
Does the rental include fuel?
The set usually arrives full and you pay for what you use, either by refuelling it yourself or by letting the yard refill it on return at their price. Read that line before signing. On a long hire, ask about a fuel tank or a scheduled delivery instead of chasing cans.
Can my pickup tow a towable generator?
For the smaller sets often yes, but weight climbs steeply with kW and a full fuel tank adds a lot. Get the gross trailer weight from the yard, compare it with your vehicle rating, and check the coupler and the electrical plug match. Otherwise pay for delivery, which for a one off is usually cheaper than the alternative.