The American Equipment Wholesale Sector
The United States equipment wholesale industry powers some of the country's most important sectors, including construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy. Wholesalers act as the critical link between equipment manufacturers and end users, providing not only product distribution but also financing, training, and after-sales service. With infrastructure investments rising and reshoring trends accelerating, demand for quality industrial equipment continues to grow.
1. United Rentals
United Rentals, headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, is the largest equipment rental and wholesale distributor in North America. Their inventory spans aerial work platforms, earthmoving machinery, power generation, and specialty tools, serving contractors and industrial clients across the United States.
2. HD Supply
HD Supply is a major industrial distributor providing maintenance, repair, and operations products to multifamily housing, hospitality, healthcare, and government markets. Based in Atlanta, the company is known for its extensive catalog and strong customer service.
3. Grainger
W.W. Grainger, based in Lake Forest, Illinois, is one of the most respected industrial supply wholesalers in the United States. Their vast catalog includes safety equipment, motors, hand tools, and industrial machinery serving manufacturers, government agencies, and facility managers nationwide.
4. Fastenal
Fastenal, headquartered in Winona, Minnesota, is a leading wholesaler of industrial and construction supplies. Known for its on-site vending machines and inventory management solutions, Fastenal supports thousands of manufacturers, contractors, and government operations.
5. MSC Industrial Direct
MSC Industrial Direct is a premier distributor of metalworking and maintenance, repair, and operations products. With distribution centers across the country, MSC serves U.S. manufacturers with cutting tools, machinery, and technical expertise.
6. Sunbelt Rentals
Sunbelt Rentals is a key player in the U.S. equipment wholesale and rental market. The company supplies construction, industrial, and event customers with a wide range of equipment from generators and compressors to scaffolding and aerial lifts.
7. Holt CAT
Holt CAT is one of the largest Caterpillar dealers in the United States, serving Texas and surrounding regions. As an authorized wholesaler of Caterpillar machinery, Holt provides construction, mining, and energy industries with heavy equipment, parts, and service support.
8. Empire Southwest
Empire Southwest is another major Caterpillar dealer serving Arizona and parts of the Southwest. Their wholesale operations include construction equipment, power systems, and agricultural machinery, supported by extensive parts and service infrastructure.
9. RDO Equipment Co.
RDO Equipment is a leading wholesaler of John Deere construction and agricultural machinery in the United States. Operating across the Midwest and West, the company serves farmers, contractors, and municipalities with both new and used equipment.
10. Wagner Equipment Co.
Wagner Equipment is a respected Caterpillar wholesaler serving Colorado, New Mexico, and far west Texas. Their commitment to customer training, technology integration, and after-sales support has made them a preferred partner in the region.
Trends in U.S. Equipment Wholesale
The American equipment wholesale industry is being reshaped by automation, telematics, and sustainability. Wholesalers are increasingly offering connected machinery that helps customers track utilization, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs in real time. Electrification of construction and industrial equipment is also opening new product categories, while financing and rental models continue to expand customer access to expensive machinery.
Choosing the Right Equipment Wholesaler
Selecting the right wholesale partner depends on industry, geography, and the type of equipment required. National players like Grainger and Fastenal excel in industrial MRO supply, while regional Caterpillar and John Deere dealers offer deep expertise in heavy machinery. Buyers should consider parts availability, technician network strength, financing options, and digital tools when choosing a wholesaler to ensure long-term operational success.