South_Aussie_Hiker wrote:I don't think I could do it. ...
Every time I loan stuff to people (even close friends/family) with strict instructions on care, something always comes back scratched or bent or wrecked.Many people just don't look after stuff if it's not theirs - they believe paying a hire fee entitles them to not treat it as if it were their own.
Gadgetgeek wrote:There might be a few other folks in the same boat, so if it did become sort of a semi-formalized thing, just as other forums have pass-arounds, and pay-it-forwards, it might be worth the community putting together a bit of boilerplate that we all agree with, so that it stays on the same terms.
Moondog55 wrote:What do the larger businesses that have a rental side charge?
I've been happy to loan out some of my gear in the past but I'm not sure I'd be happy loaning out big ticket items where the deposit won't cover replacement or repair
jdeks wrote:
So how much?? Well, Bogong rent these suckers for $50 per weekend (p/u thu, return Mon), $75 a week: http://www.bogong.com.au/tents-3/hiking ... 1-tent.htm l. They're bout the same value, but half a kilo heavier and a bit smaller inside.
jdeks wrote:Okay - not sure if this is in the right spot, but considering it's in the 'contemplative' stage, I figured this is the forum for discussion/expression of interest at this point.
So the short version is: I'm **considering** the **concept** of offering my MLD Cricket Ultralight tent out for established forum members to hire. For those who dont know, the Cricket is a one-man, bug-netted, 800g silnylon tarp-tent with surprising storm resistance. More info here: http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/sh ... cts_id=174
Now, Im sure eyebrows are raised and fingers twitching already, but before you jump on me with all the reasons why this is a terrible idea (and I know, there are maaany), let me outline my idea first.
First off, I'm not sure if such a thing breaks any forum rules regarding commercial enterprising on the Bushwalk forum. I can't find anything myself that indicates thus, and I dont see in principle how it's much different to 'flea-market' style transactions of mutual agreement. I'm not exactly planning on setting up a business out of this, the scope will remain at a single tent, and no more. But I'm sure the mods will let me know if that is verboten.
Providing it's kosher, my broad idea is that I start a thread up where people can post up with dates they need a tent (say, a week block?). Assuming it's available, I can have a look at the persons profile, swap a few PMs/phone calls, and once I'm satisfied they're not going to wreck the thing, I can post up on the thread that it's taken for that period.
Myself and the individual then arrange post/pickup. We do a short contract of agreement (similar to what you'd do if privately selling a car), take photos of the tent to establish present condition, and I take a deposit and the hire costs (via Cash On Delivery for a postal job).
Person then uses the tent, posts it back, and I have a look. If it's undamaged, I return the deposit, happy days. If it's got something minor, I take a photo, let em know and we subtract repair costs from the deposit. If it's major, I keep the deposit. If it's a write-off, or they don't send it back at all....well, this is why I want to keep it 'in the family' of the forum so to speak. There's definitely an element of trust here. That said, I will obviously have their name and details...
So - why am I even thinking about this?
Well, believe it or not, it's not just about making a quick buck. I've lost count of the number of times I've met other hikers, slugging 4kg dome monstrosities from Anaconda around the bush, and seen the pain in their eyes when I pull out a tent that weighs less than their boot. Very often, what I hear is "I'd love to try and get into UL hiking, but I can't justify the expense for 3 hikes a year". Which is a fair cop - the cricket is almost a $500 tent now, by the time it gets to your door.
I'm not using it enough now to justify that $500 either (Trailstar has spoiled me), but rather than try and sell it on to another cashed-up kid and get my money back, I figure maybe I can recoup some of my investment while also giving the more 'casual' hiker a go at trying some nice UL kit, without breaking the bank.
Not sure what I'd charge exactly ($20 for a week + $200 deposit?) but more interested in the concept at this stage.
Let the flaming begin.
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