First, search for a party store or concession equipment rental store in your area or online. Popcorn machine rentals tend to be found in the same place where you find cotton candy machine rentals. Prices for rentals will vary depending on the size popper machine you are looking for.
Step #2
Popcorn machine rental units come in various sizes. The size of a popcorn machine is determined by the amount of one ounce servings the machine can produce in one cycle. Cycles are about anywhere between 3 to 4 minutes long. So the right size machine will depend on the amount of popped corn you need to produce and how fast you have to have it done for your child’s birthday party, fundraiser, or even church carnival.
Step #3
Find out what kind of accessories you may need. Popcorn machine supplies like kernels, different flavors, oils, bags, and boxes will need to be purchased separately. Other supplies like dispensers and popcorn warmer may already be included in the rental price. You may find that you can get the supplies you need at a grocery or department store so it is wise to shop around if you already know what you will need.
Step #4
Shop around for the best deal. There are many popcorn rental companies to choose from. There are also many brands of popcorn makers such as Paragon, Cretors, and Gold Medal. Every popcorn maker rental company has their own rules. Some include extra things while others make you pay extra. Never sign a contract unless you are properly instructed by the rental company on how to assemble and operate the unit. This is important should something go wrong while the popper is in your possession.
Step #5
Determine how much space various popcorn machine rentals will take up. There are many sizes and shapes available. You should plan to have enough space for any popcorn accessories including dispensers and warmers. Also leave plenty of room for scooping popcorn and a place to sit the bags or boxes so guests can easily access the popcorn without coming in close contact to the machine. Never let people serve themselves. It is important that anyone using the machine has fully read all of the operating instructions and is well aware of the dangers of improper handling of the machine.
Step #6
Some rental companies will deliver the machine and set it up at your location. They will also clean and return it when you are done. This is especially helpful if your time can be spent on other planning needs. If you do have time to pick up the machine and supplies, make sure that your vehicle has plenty of cargo space. Machines can be quite large and can also vary in shapes. Find out ahead of time the dimensions so you don’t waste a trip.
Step #7
Before you return the machine make sure all of the parts and equipment are together. If the company requires that you clean the unit, it is wise to follow their exact instructions. Please note that some companies charge a higher fee for rentals because they do not want you to clean the unit yourself. They would rather have it cleaned by a professional. This is especially helpful if you are short on time or if you are not comfortable taking their machine apart and cleaning it.
Renting from a popcorn machine rental company is easy and inexpensive but make sure you are aware that the sole responsibility for that unit will fall on you. These machines are expensive to purchase so you can expect that maintenance and parts are also very pricey.