Exhibit 23

                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of
United Rentals, Inc. (Form S-3 No.'s 333-41419-99, 333-70151, 333-70255,
333-64463 and 333-86197), the Registration Statement of United Rentals, Inc.
(Form S-8 No. 333-70345) pertaining to the 1997 Stock Option Plan, 1998 Stock
Option Plan, and 1998 Supplemental Stock Option Plan, and the Registration
Statement of United Rentals, Inc. (Form S-8 No. 333-74091) pertaining to the
options outstanding in connection with the 1997 Performance Award Plan of U.S.
Rentals assumed pursuant to the merger with U.S. Rentals, of our report dated
February 29, 2000, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of
United Rentals, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year
ended December 31, 1999, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                                           /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

MetroPark, New Jersey
March 27, 2000