Segment Information (Reconciliation to consolidated totals) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Total equipment rentals gross profit	$ 1,364	$ 736	$ 521
Gross profit from other lines of business	223	162	137
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(588)	(407)	(367)
RSC merger related costs	(111)	(19)	0
Restructuring charge	(99)	(19)	(34)
Non-rental depreciation and amortization	(198)	(57)	(60)
Interest expense, net	(512)	(228)	(255)
Interest expense- subordinated convertible debentures, net	(4)	(7)	(8)
Other income, net	13	3	3
Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision (benefit) for income taxes	$ 88	$ 164	$ (63)