Segment Information (Reconciliation to income (loss) from continuing operations) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013		Mar. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract]
Total equipment rentals gross profit	$ 321		$ 162
Gross profit from other lines of business	64		51
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(160)		(102)
RSC merger related costs	(6)		(10)
Restructuring charge	(6)	[1]	0
Non-rental depreciation and amortization	(64)		(14)
Interest expense, net	(118)		(68)
Interest expense- subordinated convertible debentures	(2)		(1)
Other income, net	1		1
Income before provision for income taxes	$ 30		$ 19

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