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Trenchers for Rent

Trenchers are ideal for creating trenches for phone, cable, TV or electrical wiring as well as major projects like prepping for plumbing or sewage lines and irrigation canals. Browse United Rentals’ fleet of trencher rentals below and make jobs that require digging much easier for your team.

For our full list of trenchers, view the items below. For more information about trenchers, visit our resource section.

Orange and black DITCHWITCH 11-15 HP Walk-Behind Trencher, 24-36 in. Dig Depth, Wheels
Cat Class Code
930-1101

11-15 HP Walk-Behind Trencher, 24-36 in. Dig Depth, Wheels

  • 24-36 in. dig depth depending on model
  • 11-15 horsepower depending on model
  • Gas power
  • 35" wide
  • Uses: Ideal for applications in tight spaces such as installing fiber optic cable or irrigation lines
Orange and black DITCHWITCH 11-15 HP Walk-Behind Trencher, 24-36 in. Dig Depth, Tracks
Cat Class Code
930-1102

11-15 HP Walk-Behind Trencher, 24-36 in. Dig Depth, Tracks

  • 24-36 in. dig depth depending on model
  • Rubber tracks for traveling across rough terrain
  • 11-15 horsepower depending on the model
  • Features hydrostatic skid steering
  • Uses: Ideal for compact applications such as irrigation line and landscape lighting installation
Orange Ditch Witch Walk-Behind Trencher
Cat Class Code
930-1200

16-27 HP Walk-Behind Trencher, 36 in. Dig Depth

  • Up to 36" dig depth depending on model
  • 16-27 horsepower depending on model
  • Gas power
  • Includes backfill blade
  • Uses: Ideal for jobs in tight spaces, like installing telecommunication cables
Orange Ditch Witch Walk-Behind Trencher
Cat Class Code
930-1230

16-27 HP Walk-Behind Trencher, 24-36 in. Dig Depth

  • 24-36 in. dig depth depending on model
  • 16-27 horsepower depending on model
  • Rubber tracks for traveling across rough terrain
  • Features simple, easy-to-operate controls
  • Uses: Ideal for compact trenching jobs such as wire or cable installations
Orange Ditch Witch Ride-On Trencher
Cat Class Code
930-1350

32-50 HP Ride-On Trencher, 48-60 in. Dig Depth

  • 48-60 in. dig depth depending on model
  • 32-50 horsepower depending on model
  • Tier 4 diesel engine may be available; models vary by location
  • Features easy-to-use controls for operator comfort
  • Uses: Ideal for larger trenching applications, like irrigation or line installation
black cable blow product shot
Cat Class Code
930-1540

25-31 HP Walk-Behind Vibratory Plow, 16 in. Dig Depth

  • Up to 16" dig depth depending on model
  • 25-31 horsepower depending on model
  • Gas power
  • Features hydrostatic steering and easy-to-use controls
  • Uses: Ideal for installing cable, irrigation systems and drainage pipes
Yellow and black VERMEER 51-69 HP Ride-On Rock Saw Trencher, 60 in. Dig Depth
Cat Class Code
930-1630

51-69 HP Ride-On Rock Saw Trencher, 60 in. Dig Depth

  • Up to 60" dig depth depending on model
  • 51-69 horsepower depending on model
  • Diesel power
  • Features improved flotation and greater stability for increased productivity
  • Uses: Ideal for compact installation jobs, like line or cable placement
Resources

FAQs About Trenchers

Our United Rentals specialists are standing by to help you select a trench excavator or trench digger rental if you need assistance. We offer trenchers from popular brands such as Vermeer and Ditch Witch for rent, along with several others. We also offer different types of trenchers, including ride-on trenchers and walk-behind trenchers to suit your specific needs. With wheel and track trenchers available for varied types of terrain and trencher options up to 70 horsepower, our selection can satisfy various job demands.

Trench diggers are like walk-behind ergonomic compactors, but instead of a vibratory plate, trenchers are affixed with a rotating chainsaw-like chain with auger teeth or scoop buckets to break up soil and remove it from a narrow area. Trench excavators serve the same purpose with similar functionality but are typically ride-on, covering more surface area. Both effectively create trenches for piping and wiring or waterways. If you're new to using a walk-behind trencher or need more information, check out our Project Uptime article, How to Use a Walk-Behind Trencher.

Learn more about trenchers in our FAQ section below.

How much does it cost to rent a trencher?

The cost of a trencher rental will depend on the make, model and location you are renting from. For more information on the trencher rental pricing, enter your location and see rental rates in your area.

Can a trencher cut through roots?

Trenchers can cut through small roots, but take caution: Trenchers were designed to remove soil, and you can damage the equipment if you force the machine to sever a large root. If you have a lot of roots to clear, a mini excavator with an attachment would be the best option.

How do you cut through roots with a trencher?

If you have a limited number of small roots, ensure your trencher has a strong carbide blade and higher horsepower. Then clear the dirt around the roots with the trencher so you have a clear view of them. Position the trencher to one side of the root, start the trencher, lower it onto the soil next to the root and move the trencher into the root. Do not force the trencher into the root but be firm. Make several cuts into different sides of the root until it is torn up and out of the trench.