Way Ken Equipment Rental & Sales: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Extensive Tool & Equipment Selection: You’ll find a wide variety of tools and equipment for various construction projects, from dump trailers to roof cranes, hoists, and demo hammers. They even carry Ego snowblowers and seem to have a large enough selection that if you can’t find what you need here, you might be using the wrong tool for the job.
• Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff: Many shoppers praise the helpfulness and expertise of the staff, particularly in guiding customers on tool selection and use. They’ll take the time to explain how equipment works and even assemble purchases like snowblowers. Expect helpful advice, even guidance on complex tasks like digging under a sidewalk.
• Quality Equipment (Sometimes): Some reviewers highlight the use of top-notch tools and equipment. However, this isn’t a universal experience (see below). The business seems to test equipment before sale to ensure proper functionality.
• Local Business Support: For those preferring to support local businesses, Way Ken offers a compelling alternative to big box stores while offering comparable pricing on certain items, like Ego snowblowers.
• Convenient Location: At least one review mentions its convenient proximity to a Chase branch, useful for customers needing to secure a cash deposit.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Equipment Condition: Be aware that the quality and working condition of rental equipment can vary significantly. Several reviews describe renting malfunctioning equipment requiring additional servicing, even after reporting issues multiple times during the rental. One review even highlights a difference in equipment quality compared to a competitor, Sunbelt Rentals.
• High Costs and Unexpected Fees: Shoppers should expect high rental costs. Prepare for potentially significant repair charges for pre-existing damage. One customer was charged double the rental cost for alleged damage that they did not cause. Also expect high cash and credit card deposits. One review detailed a $600 cash deposit and $2000 credit card pre-authorization. Another reported a $300 cash deposit requirement changing to a $3000 credit card requirement when the renter was a person of color.
• Opaque Pricing and Return Policies: Pricing can be deceptive, and the return policy appears inconsistent for unused items. Be prepared for potentially obscured receipts and an unclear process for refunds or returns.
• Potential for Unfair Billing Practices: Some customers have reported feeling unfairly blamed for pre-existing equipment damage. One review cites a situation where the damage was physically impossible for the renter to have caused.
• Customer Service Inconsistencies: Although several reviews mention great customer service, others report negative interactions, including accusations of racism, dismissive attitudes toward reported equipment issues, and inconsistent communication around security deposit requirements.