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, the Registration
Statements of United Rentals, Inc. (Form S-8 No.'s 333-74091 and 333-87903)
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 and
the Registration Statement of United Rentals, Inc. (Form S-8 No. 333-39770)
pertaining to the United Rentals, Inc. 401(k) Investment Plan and United
Rentals, Inc. Acquisition Plan, of our report dated February 23, 2001 with
respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedules of United
Rentals, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
December 31, 2000, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                                          /S/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP


MetroPark, New Jersey
March 20, 2001