Equipment theft costs the rental industry an estimated $100 million annually, with more than 360 pieces reported stolen each month, according to the American Rental Association.

In response, the ARA and law enforcement agencies are launching new initiatives to combat the problem, which has disrupted projects and increased costs across the country. At a press conference at Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers in Morris, Illinois, the ARA introduced its new Equipment Rental Guard (ERG) program, a security suite designed to help rental businesses prevent theft and recover stolen assets.

“Equipment theft is an issue that affects every single one of our equipment rental members, no matter the size of their operation,” said Tony Conant, ARA CEO. “We wanted to attack it from every angle with the Equipment Rental Guard program.”

Theft of heavy equipment — including backhoes, bulldozers and loaders — often involves fraudulent renters. Once stolen, the machines are rarely recovered and frequently resold on the black market or through online platforms.

Law enforcement at the event emphasized the importance of fast, coordinated reporting when thefts occur. Rental businesses also shared firsthand stories, reinforcing the need for comprehensive tools and community-wide involvement.

“I think it’s incredibly important for all of us to band together,” said David Skala, manager at B.I. Rental in Homer Glen, Illinois. “Unless every individual who is involved takes action, there’s not going to be any movement forward.”

The ERG program offers training, renter verification, red flag alerts, a national database of suspicious renters and stolen equipment, theft reporting support, legal resources, and financial protection tools.