Chair rentals can cost as little as $1.25 each for simple, plastic folding chairs, and 4-foot rectangular tables can cost about $6 each. These seat about six people, so the arrangement costs $13.50 per table.
The cost is about $3 each for wood, resin or bamboo folding chairs with padded seat cushions. And it is about $7 for a 48-inch round table. This seats about six people, so this arrangement costs $25 per table.
Straight-backed wood ballroom chairs with padded seat cushions can cost about $8 each, while 60-inch round tables cost about $11 each. These seat about eight people, so this arrangement costs about $75 per table.
If the reception venue has an in-house caterer, the cost of the use of tables and chairs owned by the venue probably will be factored into the per-head catering cost, but it should work out to be about the same, according to the National Association of Catering Executives[1] .
The rental company will usually arrange delivery and pick-up of the tables and chairs. The equipment should arrive in pristine condition -- many companies machine wash them between uses.
Additional costs:
Some rental companies charge an extra set-up charge of about 30 cents per chair.
Some rental companies add a fuel surcharge for delivery, depending on the distance they must travel.
Rental of satin or polyester chair covers cost between $2 and $3 each, and sashes can cost $1 each -- though some companies throw in sashes for free.
Linen rentals cost from 25 cents for a napkin to $5 for a small rectangular tablecloth to $20 for a banquet-sized tablecloth.
If equipment is broken, damaged or lost, you may be charged for replacement or repair cost.
Discounts:
Some caterers might be able to get equipment rental discounts and pass the savings to their clients. Also, rental companies sometimes provide discounts for volume rentals.
Shopping for table and chair rentals:
Tip: If you are coordinating rentals yourself, ask to see the rental company's inventory of items before you sign a contract. You'll want to make sure you are satisfied with the quality and condition of items. RentalHQ.com offers more advice on how to rent equipment for a wedding.
RentalHQ.com offers a guide to the types of tables available and seating and space guidelines for various styles of reception.
Tip: Read the contract carefully, and pay special attention to the replacement costs for which you will be responsible if an item is damaged or lost.
To find a rental store, ask your venue or caterer if they can recommend one. Or, the American Rental Association[2] offers lists of stores that rent chairs and tables by location.
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