Segment Information (Reconciliation to income (loss) from continuing operations) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2011
Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract]
Total equipment rentals gross profit	$ 323	$ 175	$ 485		$ 277
Gross profit from other lines of business	51	36	102		72
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(146)	(100)	(248)		(195)
RSC merger related costs	(80)	0	(90)		0
Restructuring charge	(53)	(2)	(53)	[1]	(3)
Non-rental depreciation and amortization	(49)	(14)	(63)		(26)
Interest expense, net	(121)	(57)	(189)		(113)
Interest expense-subordinated convertible debentures	(1)	(2)	(2)		(4)
Other income, net	(12)	(3)	(13)		(4)
(Loss) income from continuing operations before provision (benefit) for income taxes	$ (64)	$ 39	$ (45)		$ 12

[1] Reflected in our condensed consolidated statements of operations as “Restructuring charge.” These charges are not allocated to our reportable segments.