Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, planning a wedding, or organizing a community gathering, having a reliable coffee maker is essential. But buying a large commercial coffee maker can be expensive—especially if you only need it for a short period.
So, where can you rent a large coffee maker? Fortunately, several rental options cater to businesses, event planners, and individuals who need a high-capacity brewing system. This guide will walk you through the best places to rent a large coffee machine, the types available, and everything else you need to know before making a rental decision.
Types of Large Coffee Makers Available for Rent
Before choosing a rental service, it’s essential to understand the different types of coffee makers available. The right choice depends on the number of guests, the type of coffee you want to serve, and how long the event will last.
1. Coffee Urns (Percolators)
- Ideal for large gatherings and self-serve stations.
- Can brew anywhere from 30 to 100+ cups at a time.
- Keeps coffee warm for extended periods.
- Best for buffets, churches, and catered events.
2. Commercial Drip Coffee Makers
- Similar to home drip machines but designed for high volume.
- Commonly used in offices, hotels, and large meetings.
- Typically includes multiple burners to keep coffee warm.
- Can brew 12-36 cups per batch.
3. Espresso Machines (Manual & Automatic)
- Perfect for events that require specialty coffee drinks.
- Often found in cafés, pop-up coffee stations, and high-end catering events.
- Requires some training to operate (especially manual models).
- Produces espresso, cappuccino, and lattes.
4. Coffee Vending Machines
- Fully automated machines that dispense coffee at the push of a button.
- Great for offices, break rooms, and conferences.
- Can serve various coffee types, including espresso and flavored options.
5. High-Capacity Bean-to-Cup Machines
- Ideal for businesses that need fresh, high-quality coffee quickly.
- Offers grind-on-demand brewing for better taste.
- Suitable for corporate offices, lounges, and busy events.
Knowing which type of coffee maker suits your needs helps narrow down rental options and ensures your event runs smoothly.
Who Typically Rents Large Coffee Makers?
Renting a large coffee maker isn’t just for major corporations—many individuals and small businesses also benefit from short-term rentals. Below are some of the most common renters:
Event Planners & Caterers
Professional event planners often rent coffee makers for weddings, conferences, and banquets. Large urns and commercial brewers help serve hundreds of guests efficiently.
Offices & Corporate Events
Businesses rent coffee machines for employee appreciation days, training sessions, and temporary office setups. High-capacity coffee makers ensure everyone gets their caffeine fix without waiting.
Churches & Community Centers
Many churches and community groups host weekly gatherings that require a steady supply of coffee. Renting is an affordable alternative to purchasing a machine that may only be used occasionally.
Hotels & Convention Centers
While most hotels have in-house coffee services, some still rent additional machines for large-scale conferences or private events.
Private Parties & Weddings
A rented coffee maker is a cost-effective way to provide fresh coffee at wedding receptions, birthday parties, and family reunions without hiring a full coffee catering service.
Pop-Up Shops & Food Trucks
Entrepreneurs running temporary coffee stations or mobile setups often rent espresso machines to provide premium coffee without a long-term investment.
Where to Rent a Large Coffee Maker
There are several places where you can rent a high-capacity coffee maker. The best option depends on your location, budget, and specific needs.
1. Local Restaurant Supply Stores
Many restaurant supply stores offer rental services for professional kitchen equipment, including commercial coffee makers. These stores cater to caterers, businesses, and event organizers.
👉 Tip: Call ahead to check availability and rental terms. Some stores also provide coffee supplies like filters and beans.
2. Catering Equipment Rental Companies
Catering rental businesses specialize in providing food and beverage equipment for events. They usually offer different types of coffee machines, from percolators to espresso makers.
👉 Best for: Weddings, large corporate events, and catering businesses.
3. Party and Event Rental Services
These companies rent out everything from chairs to coffee makers for events. If you’re already renting tables, linens, or tents, ask if they also have coffee makers available.
👉 Best for: One-time events like weddings, birthday parties, and community gatherings.
4. Hotel and Convention Centers
Some hotels and convention centers rent coffee machines to event organizers using their facilities. If you’re hosting an event at a hotel, check if they provide this option.
👉 Best for: Conferences, business meetings, and trade shows.
5. Office Coffee Service Providers
Businesses that supply offices with coffee machines often offer short-term rentals for corporate events. Some also provide coffee and maintenance services.
👉 Best for: Business conferences, meetings, and employee events.
6. Online Rental Marketplaces
Websites like Peer-to-Peer Rental Platforms (e.g., Fat Llama, RentNotBuy) allow individuals and businesses to rent out coffee makers. You can also check local classified sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
👉 Best for: Finding budget-friendly rental options and local deals.
How to Find a Coffee Maker Rental Near You
If you’re unsure where to start, follow these steps to find a local rental service:
- Search Online – Use Google with keywords like “rent large coffee maker near me” or “coffee machine rental service [your city]”.
- Check Yelp & Google Reviews – Look for companies with positive customer feedback.
- Contact Catering Services – Many catering businesses have coffee equipment available for rent.
- Ask Local Coffee Shops – Some independent coffee shops rent out their equipment when not in use.
- Visit Restaurant Supply Stores – Call ahead to see if they offer rentals.
Cost of Renting a Large Coffee Maker
The rental price depends on the type of coffee maker, rental duration, and included services.
| Type of Coffee Maker | Average Rental Cost (Per Day) | Additional Costs |
| Coffee Urn (Percolator) | $20 – $50 | Filters, coffee beans |
| Commercial Drip Brewer | $40 – $100 | Coffee pots, filters |
| Espresso Machine | $100 – $500 | Training, maintenance |
| Bean-to-Cup Machine | $75 – $250 | Specialty coffee beans |
| Coffee Vending Machine | $150 – $600 | Installation, maintenance |
Additional Fees to Consider:
- Deposit: Some rentals require a refundable security deposit.
- Delivery & Setup: If you need delivery, expect extra fees ($25 – $100).
- Cleaning Fees: Some companies charge if the machine isn’t returned clean.
👉 Tip: Ask about hidden fees before signing the rental agreement!
Rental Terms and Conditions to Consider
Before renting a coffee maker, review the contract to understand the terms.
🔹 Deposit Requirements – Some companies require a deposit, which is refunded if the machine is returned in good condition.
🔹 Rental Duration – Most rentals are available per day, weekend, or week.
🔹 Return Policies – Late returns may result in extra charges.
🔹 Liability for Damage – Understand who is responsible for repairs in case of malfunction.
Additional Equipment and Supplies You May Need
Renting a coffee machine is just the first step. You may also need:
- Coffee Beans or Grounds – Ensure you get the right grind for the machine.
- Filters – Some machines require specific filters.
- Cups, Lids & Stirrers – If hosting an event, stock up on disposables.
- Milk, Sugar & Creamers – Guests often prefer different coffee styles.
- Cleaning Supplies – Machines need regular cleaning to function properly.
Tips for Choosing the Right Rental Service
Selecting the best rental provider can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s what to check:
✔ Read Reviews – Look for customer feedback to avoid unreliable services.
✔ Compare Rental Rates – Prices vary, so check multiple providers.
✔ Inspect the Equipment – Ensure the machine is clean and well-maintained.
✔ Ask About Support – Some companies offer customer support if you have issues.
✔ Confirm Availability – Book early, especially for peak event seasons.
How to Use and Maintain a Rented Large Coffee Maker
Once you have your rented coffee machine, follow these best practices:
Setup & Operation
✅ Place the machine on a stable, level surface.
✅ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup.
✅ Use filtered water for better taste and machine longevity.
Maintenance & Cleaning
✅ Empty and rinse after each use.
✅ Wipe down external surfaces daily.
✅ Use the recommended cleaning solution to remove coffee residue.
✅ Never let old coffee sit in the machine for long periods.
👉 Tip: If you’re renting for multiple days, clean the machine daily to prevent buildup.
Alternatives to Renting a Large Coffee Maker
If renting isn’t the best option, consider these alternatives:
🟢 Borrow from a Friend or Business – Some offices or churches may lend their coffee makers for free.
🟢 Buy a Used Machine & Resell It Later – Sometimes, purchasing a used commercial coffee maker can be cost-effective if you plan to resell it.
🟢 Hire a Coffee Catering Service – Instead of renting, hire a catering service that provides coffee and barista services.
🟢 Use Multiple Small Coffee Makers – If renting a large machine is too expensive, using several smaller ones can be a workaround.
Conclusion
Renting a large coffee maker is a practical solution for events, businesses, and gatherings. Whether you need a coffee urn for a community event or a commercial espresso machine for a conference, there are numerous rental options available.
By choosing the right rental provider, understanding costs, and preparing the necessary supplies, you can ensure a seamless coffee experience for your guests.
☕ Need a coffee maker for your next event? Start by searching local catering or restaurant supply rentals today!
