The major North American rental companies sold 55 percent more used equipment — as measured by original equipment cost — than in the first six months of 2008, according to Rouse Asset Services. However, total sales volume, as measured by sales dollars, fell 3 percent for the same period. The difference can be explained by the fact that the average recovery for the first six months of 2008 was 57.2 percent, whereas it was only 35.8 percent for the first six months of 2009.

The changes in average recovery value for the first six months of this year reflect the decline in used equipment values as well as a substantial shift in volume of equipment sold at auction.

Aerial work platforms is the category of equipment sold most during the past 12 months, representing 26 percent of the units sold, followed by high-reach forklifts (telehandlers), 13 percent; loader backhoes, 7 percent; excavators 7 percent; trucks, 5 percent; cranes, skid-steer loaders and compaction equipment, 4 percent; generators and dozers, 3 percent.

For more information about equipment values and average fleet age for major rental equipment categories, what rental companies are buying and selling, and economic factors impacting the rental industry, check out www.rouseservices.com.