We do this to encourage people to rent for the maximum length of time they may need an item, and then return it early for a refund rather than rent it for the minimum length of time they may need it. We do this because it helps us have a better idea of when an item will actually return from a rental so that we can accept future reservations for it.

If a renter selects the maximum length of time they may need an item, we can confidently accept a future reservation, knowing that the expected arrival date is actually the latest possible time the renter will send back the equipment. If instead, the equipment is rented for the minimum length of time the renter may need it, a situation could arise where they assume they can get an extension on the item, but we have already reserved it for another renter.