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Serving the Canadian rental industry for 45 years.
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What
So long and thanks for all the fun
by Patrick Flannery
After 13 years editing Canadian Rental Service, I’m moving on. Surprisingly, this is not because I’ve been fired. I’m taking on some additional responsibilities as publisher/ editor in two of my other channels and focusing on an overhaul of my largest channel, Canadian Contractor, which I took over earlier this year. You deserve the full attentions of an editorial team and, after such a long run, any media brand benefits from new voices, new approaches and new energy.
You’ll be getting plenty of all of this with Mike Lacey, the incoming editor, and Macenzie Rebelo, who will be moving over to work with him. Mike is the editor of the Rock to Road channel for the roadbuilding and aggregates industry. So he’s familiar with a lot of the equipment and business models we work with. He comes from a community newspaper background so the quality of his content is top-notch. Macenzie will already be familiar as she’s been my associate editor for most of this year and written several excellent items for the channel. She produced all the stories for our Top Ten Under 40 feature this year and I hope you’ll agree she has a real talent for introducing us to amazing people and their stories. In an industry that’s all about the people, she’s a perfect fit.
When I joined this channel in 2011 I had never so much as set foot in an equipment rental store. I’m not handy. Any success I’ve had covering this industry is due to the help of many generous and knowledgeable people. So bear with me while I shout out a few of them here.
My sales manager, Ed Cosman, had been in the industry for around 25 years already at that time and quite simply knew everything and everyone in it. So all I really had to do was what he said to do. Ed attended every single Ontario Canadian Rental Association meeting and took me with him. It was there that I discovered the great warmth, good humour and community spirit of the people in this business. I was instantly charmed and wrote about it in some of my early editorials.
Mandy Wellnitz was the national CRA executive director at the time. She made a special effort to welcome me, keep me informed and introduce me around at every show.
Jeff Campbell of St. Thomas Rent-All became a friend. He was rising up the chairs in Ontario, becoming CRA national president in 2013. If you know Jeff, you know no one takes this business more seriously nor has more to say about it. I got the benefit of Jeff’s insight through many hours in show hotel bars and on drives and flights. Jeff was good at making sure I didn’t miss any of those opportunities, even when I slept through alarms.
Ingersoll Rent-All was the first industry profile I did and Mike Maltby, its president, also became a friend. Mike likes the big picture and thinking about how this whole rental thing works. Accordingly, he’s been one of the most dedicated association supporters I’ve seen. I’ve always been able to count on Mike to take my call and give me valuable real-talk on what’s going on and what it means.
Neil DeJong of ITE Equipment Rentals gets special mention, too, for his passion for the business and interest in sharing his opinions. Angie Venekamp from Rental Network...a more passionate industry volunteer never was born. Then there’s all the industry suppliers that helped me so much with their wisdom and were sometimes even willing to put it into writing for my use. Gary Webb from Norseman; Dean Nasato from Western Global; Kim Wiles from CES; the late, great John King of TES; Jim Freeman of Rentquip; Rick Darche of RDSI; John Ciraldi from Tsurumi. Ciraldi will be happy that he doesn’t have to hand over his phone at every event when mine runs out of charge.
There will be many I’ve missed and I hope you reach out to give me a hard time about it. I would expect no less from my rental friends. Thanks for letting me into your business and please be proud of what you do in this remarkable industry. CRS
INDUSTRY NEWS
POINT OF RENTAL’S 2024 CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
Point of Rental 2024’s international conference brought together rental professionals from across the globe. Over 200 industry leaders gathered at The Crescent Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas, to explore new strategies, innovations and best practices within the rental industry. Spanning three action-packed days, attendees participated in 50-plus educational sessions, focus groups and interactive demos. Highlights included one-on-one consultations and hands-on learning experiences designed to help businesses maximize their rental software investments. “Point of Rental has grown throughout the past 40 years because we’ve listened to our users,” said Point of Rental CEO Wayne Harris. “And while we’re listening year-round, the conference is a place where we can get hundreds of users in the same room. It’s always fun to see so many Pointers’ getting to interact face-to-face with the people using our software.” Point of Rental’s leadership team introduced their product roadmap for the coming year, with a strong focus on cloud-based solutions and ensuring secure, scalable platforms for all users. The conference emphasized collaboration, with networking opportunities and insights shared among rental leaders from different regions and sectors. “We’re actually acquiring a company, so we’re learning about the different product offers,” said attendee Michael Isakson from Absher Construction. The event reinforced Point of Rental’s commitment to industry innovation and customer success. The company is already gearing up for its next event, aiming to continue fostering connections and driving growth across the rental industry.
COMING EVENTS
Jan. 7 - 9
Landscape Ontario Congress Toronto, Ont. locongress.com
Jan. 28 - Feb. 2 The ARA Show Las Vegas, Nev. arashow.org
March 26 - 27 Quebexpo Drummondville, Que. crarental.org
Sept. 30 - Oct. 1
Canadian Rental Mart Toronto, Ont. canadianrentalmart.com Visit
CHAIR-MAN MILLS REBRANDS TO ELEMENT EVENT SOLUTIONS
Element has started a new chapter since its rebranding from Chair-man Mills Corp. In August of 2024, Element united its portfolio of nine brands under the new master brand. The brands include: Event Rental Group, Higgins Event Rentals, Contemporary Furniture Rentals, Regal Tent Productions, Advanced Tent Rental, A&B Partytime, Loungeworks, MacFarlands and Chair-man Mills. Element’s launch comes with a comprehensive and enhanced website, new uniforms, truck branding and signage. Digital assets and social media accounts have also transitioned to Element. While the name and look are new, the expert teams, showroom locations and trusted customer relationships remain the same. With a team of more than 500 people across the country and facilities in Vancouver, Burnaby, B.C., Toronto, Hamilton, Ont., and Dartmouth, N.S., the company will continue to invest in local talent, customer relationships and business infrastructure. Its operations have been structured by region, with western, central and eastern Canada divisions, with a national tents and structures team.
“Our customers have expressed a desire for a unified, one-stop partner for their event rental needs,” says Allison Freeman, CEO of Element Event Solutions. “Reimagining our Chair-man Mills Corp. portfolio of brands as Element Event Solutions is a response to this feedback. We’re excited to leverage our scale, expertise and assortment to create Canada’s first national event solutions platform. At Element, we are thrilled to offer our clients — Canada’s leading venues, caterers, planners and occasional hosts — seamless access to our full suite of product and service solutions from coast to coast, enhancing our ability to bring their event visions to life.”
AT-PAC HIRES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR CANADIAN MARKET
AT-PAC has appointed Allan Hazzard as managing director of Canada. AT-PAC has operated its Canadian branch in Edmonton since 2000, which has more recently operated alongside U.S. operations under a single North American regional structure. As part of Hazzard’s appointment, Canada will transition to its own local management structure to further support the company’s recent and anticipated growth into new markets in eastern and western Canada.
“The appointment of Hazzard is a strategic step forward and will enable us to build off the existing talented team and our almost 25-year history in Canada to expand our presence and better service our customers in important markets across Canada,” said Josh Dundon, CEO. Based in Calgary, Hazzard brings over 20 years of leadership experience, including the past decade in the modular building industry with WillScot and contributes a wealth of expertise in scaling businesses across Canada. His executive roles in commercial leadership and general management, both in Canada and the U.S., have equipped him with deep knowledge of asset-intensive businesses servicing the industrial and commercial sectors.
“I am truly honoured to step into the role of managing director for AT-PAC Canada at such an exciting time in the company’s journey. Having spent much of my career in roles focused on scaling businesses across diverse markets, I am thrilled to now lead a talented team in driving AT-PAC’s continued growth and innovation in the Canadian market,” said Hazzard. As managing director for Canada, Hazzard will be responsible for leading and driving AT-PAC’s next phase of growth.
HANGCHA
FORKLIFT CANADA CELEBRATES
FIVE YEARS
Hangcha Forklift Canada celebrates five years since its establishment on Oct. 18, 2019. Launched with an initial investment of $3 million U.S., Hangcha Canada entered the market aiming to bypass importers and establish a direct distribution model for Canadian businesses. Today, the company has representation in every Canadian province through a network of 17 dealers, ensuring nationwide coverage for sales, service and support. Starting with just five employees in 2019, Hangcha Canada now boasts a workforce of 35 across the country. The company’s expansion included two major openings in 2023, with new locations in Mississauga, Ont., and Vancouver. These facilities, in tandem with its headquarters in Vaudreuil-Dorion, Que., support Hangcha Canada’s dealer network, enhancing its coast-to-coast service capabilities. In 2023 alone, Hangcha Canada sold an impressive 2,463 units, ranging from Class One to Class Seven forklifts.
“As we celebrate five years, it’s clear that our success is driven by the strength of our partnerships,” said Tim Wang, president of Hangcha Canada. “From day one, we’ve focused on empowering our dealers with the right products, resources, and support to drive growth on both sides. Now, as we push toward increasing our market share, we’re challenging ourselves to reach new heights with the strong foundation we’ve set through our programs, policies and team.” As Hangcha Canada looks ahead, its focus remains on supporting dealer growth and driving innovation in the material handling industry.
CRA ANNOUNCES 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Canadian Rental Association has released the results of the 2025 board of directors election and extended its gratitude to all candidates and members who participated. It said the commitment of its members ensures the continued growth and strength of the association, thanked everyone who took the time to vote. The following individuals have been newly elected to the CRA board:
• Warren Carriere, Cooper Equipment Rentals
• Shelley Cole, GNS Equipment Rentals
• Kenny Suzor, Festival Tent & Party Rentals
These new directors will join the returning board members:
• President-elect: Brett Armstrong, Double R Rentals
• Mike Maltby, Ingersoll Rent-all
• Valerie Moreau, Location Moreau
• Rakesh Singh, Little Electric
• Asif Zaidi, Meadowvale Party Rentals
The newly elected directors will begin their terms following the annual general meeting at which time the full board will convene to elect a secretary/treasurer for the upcoming year.
“We are excited to welcome our new directors and recognize our returning members, all of whom bring exceptional expertise and commitment to the CRA,” said Melanie Misener, executive director of the CRA. “Their leadership will guide us as we continue to serve our members and advance the rental industry in Canada.” Misner added her congratulations to the 2025 board and thanked them for their continued dedication. “We look forward to a successful and impactful year ahead.”
INDUSTRY NEWS
GENIE WELCOMES NEW SALES LEADER IN NORTH AMERICA
Ben Bradshaw, a veteran of the equipment and rental industry has joined the Genie team as the new executive vice-president of North America sales. Bradshaw is a seasoned leader with more than two decades at leading rental companies, including his most recent role as a senior vice-president. Bradshaw’s sales leadership experience, combined with his background in the rental industry and strong focus on understanding his customers’ needs will add to the strength of Genie’s current dedicated and experienced team. Throughout his career, Bradshaw has cultivated a reputation for constructing and nurturing robust teams and fortifying partnerships. His commitment to exceeding expectations aligns well with Genie’s commitment to delivering a “quality by design” customer experience. In addition to his strong industry background and deep understanding of the needs of equipment rental providers, Bradshaw has deep family roots in the equipment industry. His dad, Bob Bradshaw, spent 22 years at Genie before retiring as regional vice-president of sales for the west coast. Ben’s grandfather and Bob’s dad, also named Bob Bradshaw, spent nearly 40 years in the equipment and rental industry at Shepherd Machinery.
“I’m excited to be a part of the Genie team, where my role centres on understanding and addressing our customers’ needs. I’m eager to collaborate closely with them and understand how we can continue to make an already great brand even better,” says Bradshaw. In addition to welcoming Bradshaw to the Genie team, Genie is excited to share two additional changes designed to enhance value and drive a quality customer experience. Will Westley, who joined Genie in 2022, has been appointed global vice-president of sales transformation and operations. Westley’s focus in this new role will be to leverage best practices to ensure an industry-leading customer experience globally. Sharbel Kordahi will succeed Westley in the role of vice-president of sales for the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) region.
“For nearly 60 years — since Bud Bushnell founded Genie in 1966 — our customers have been at the centre of what we do,” said Matt Treadwell, Genie’s vice-president of global sales. “These changes support that customer-first focus and will help us strengthen our commitment to delivering not only the quality products our customers need from us, but also the quality customer experience and support that sets Genie apart as an industry leader and true partner.”
BANK OF CANADA REDUCES POLICY RATE BY 50 BASIS POINTS
The Bank of Canada reduced its headline rate to 3.75 percent in October. It said it is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization. The announcement said it expects the global economy to expand at a rate of about three percent over the next two years. Growth in the United States is now expected to be stronger than previously forecast while the outlook for China remains subdued. Growth in the Euro area has been soft but should recover modestly next year. Inflation in advanced economies has declined in recent months and is now around central bank targets. Global financial conditions have eased since July, in part because of market expectations of lower policy interest rates. Global oil prices are about $10 lower than assumed in the July Monetary Policy Report. In Canada, the economy grew at around two percent in the first half of the year, and the bank expects growth of 1.75 percent in the second half. Consumption has continued to grow but is declining on a per-person basis. Exports have been boosted by the opening of the Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline. The labour market remains soft – the unemployment rate was at 6.5 percent in September. Population growth has continued to expand the labour force while hiring has been modest. This has particularly affected young people and newcomers to Canada.
MELANIE MISENER CONFIRMED AS PERMANENT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CRA
The Canadian Rental Association has confirmed Melanie Misener in her role as executive director. After serving as interim executive director, the board of directors made this official following their board meeting in Calgary in September. With a wealth of experience in leadership, strategy and member engagement, Misener brings a fresh and dynamic vision to the CRA.
“We are thrilled to welcome Melanie Misener as our new executive director,” said Sheldon Fingler, CRA president. “Her expertise and drive for success make her the ideal choice to guide the association through its next chapter, focused on the needs of members and collaboration.”
As executive director, Misener will focus on enhancing member services, expanding advocacy efforts and leading strategic initiatives to support the evolving needs of the rental industry. “I’m honoured to take on this role at CRA and work alongside its dedicated members, partners and staff,” said Misener. “I look forward to building on the association’s strong foundation and helping drive meaningful progress for our industry.”
EquipmentWatch is a trusted source for heavy equipment data and intelligence, producing leading database information products for the construction equipment industry. It is a world leader in heavy construction research and serves more than 15,000 professional, high-volume users of construction and lift-truck data. Find more heavy equipment intelligence at equipmentwatch.com.
Cross-Canada Rate Report
A look at average national rental rates
The Cross-Canada Rate Report is provided to Canadian Rental Service as a free service to the Canadian rental industry. Rate data shown are national averages generated by quarterly surveys of hundreds of Canadian rental companies. Rates shown are reported list rates and may not reflect the actual changes to any particular customer.
Number of rental companies: Number of rates collected in Q4 2024:
Number of stores:
180,683
EARNEST SERVICE
JDC does it with feeling.
by Macenzie Rebelo
In the industrial sector of Bolton, Ont., lies a small operation that oversees the only Canadian location of Jack Doheny Company. JDC, an American-based equipment rental company has found a home with Jamie Spizziri, the branch’s new business managing director. Spizziri, born and raised in Mississauga, Ont., began his sales career 25 years ago. He started in the industrial market as a salesman and worked his way up to management positions. Around 2008, he stumbled into the rental industry after connecting with construction businesses during the recession and “fell in love.” From there, Spizziri pursued a career in rental where he got a job with Stephenson’s Rental
Service and later CM Equip until they closed in 2023. A year later, Spizziri needed a job and JDC reached out to him personally with an offer.
Spizziri admits that the job was overwhelming at first but he quickly learned the ropes with the help of his small and tight-knit team, made up of only five members (including himself). Spizziri does have the help of the 15 U.S. locations with around 250 employees if he ever finds himself needing additional support. The Bolton location is a 21,000-square-foot facility, with eight mechanic truck bays with a high bay overhead crane to lift and support all types of repairs. The location also has two acres of parking in the rear of the facility allowing for ample parking for its “ever-growing fleet of equipment.”
Typically Jamie Spizziri is only in his office about twice a week. You can find him travelling all around Ontario and visiting locations renting JDC equipment.
COVER STORY
Founded by Jack Doheny in 1973, JDC has become a popular avenue for sewer-cleaning equipment rentals. “It’s what got the company off its feet,” says Spizziri. JDC has since expanded its products to street sweepers, electric utility vehicles and lifts. The company offers rentals, pre-owned equipment, pipeline inspections and on top of a rent-to-buy program.
Spizziri did not initially start in the rental industry. He explains he was very familiar with the niche equipment because of previous jobs. So learning the
ins and outs of the market, equipment and customers wasn’t a significant challenge. Sewer trucks and hydrovacs are JDC’s bread and butter and most popular products. “We have a fleet of 50 vehicles but currently only three are available to rent,” says Spizziri. “They’re always in our customer’s hands.” Some of the most popular items are Manitoba-based Shellvac vacuum trucks. To Spizziri, it means a lot that one of the most rented items on the lot is Canadian-made and -manufactured equipment.
Given Ontario’s underground infra-
JDC is a company with a lot of heart. It is always helping others one way or another.
structure laws, excavators, contractors and homeowners cannot dig in a given location without contacting Ontario One Call first. According to Spizziri, a large part of JDC Bolton’s market is for hydro excavation. Contractors use JDC’s trucks because they can excavate both safely and efficiently and offer solutions to the infrastructure laws. There is a variation in the customer base for JDC from contractors to major corporations. However, there are four industries the company mainly serves.
The first market is utility installation and services. This sector installs underground utilities such as water, sewer and electrical lines. In this case, customers would use Spizziri’s fleet of electric utility vehicles such as bucket trucks, aerial lifts, cable placers, digger derricks, pole and reel trailers. The second is the potholing and daylighting sector, which locates and exposes underground utilities in construction products. Hydro excavation enables workers to safely uncover these utilities without the risk of breakage or damage. JDC’s fleet of electric hydro utility vehicles is used in this case. The third is for environmental cleanup. Hydro excavation equipment is particularly effective for cleaning up hazardous materials and contaminated soil, explains Spizziri. “Its non-invasive method minimizes soil disturbance, protecting surrounding ecosystems.” Last is municipal maintenance, where hydro excavators are used for infrastructure maintenance. Hydrovacs would be used for pipeline repairs and storm drain cleanouts. “Its ability to perform precise, non-destructive digging makes them a preferred tool for local governments,” says Spizziri.
In December of 2024, JDC will celebrate its 51st birthday and Spizziri attributes the company’s success to two key factors. One is the niche market JDC serves and two is its dedication to its customers. “We’re not the cheapest company around,” he says. “But we stress customer service. We really look after our customers and it’s why they come back.” He says that staying proactive is one of the best things a business manager can do,
All but one of the JDC Bolton team, including Jason (far left), Shane (middle), Jamie (right) and Susan.
on top of always keeping the clients in the loop. “Customers know we look after them and will get good service.” Spizziri also believes in honest customer service, meaning he does not sell customers products they don’t actually need or “won’t get the job done.” Being transparent with buyers is an important aspect of customer service, stresses Spizziri. “If they lose money, then ultimately we lose money,” he says. “It’s all about having good service and good product.”
JDC is a company with a lot of heart, Spizziri explains and he feels that the business is always helping others out in one way or another. “We try to be a solutions provider and help.” Through account setups with JDC, a company can select a financial plan that may be struggling financially. Renters don’t have to worry about the overhead capital of the expenses of repairs, which is a relief for customers. “We look after that.”
When a contractor rents a piece of equipment, Spizziri will join on-site and
The JDC Bolton location is a 21,000-square-foot facility with 50 sewer trucks and vehicles in its vicinity.
offer demonstrations. This means travels across the country a lot of the time. But, that does not slow him down – in fact, his favourite aspect of the job is meeting the customers and making sure the equipment they rent is safe. A mobile and on-site technician is a part of Spizziri’s small team. “I don’t see them too often,” he jokes, as they are always on the road or working on sewer, pipeline and construc-
tion equipment.
He continues to maintain the five-person shop, although he expects the team to expand in the future. For him, working in a business that not only cares about the customers but also the employees themselves is what makes JDC Bolton special. “We’ve had some hiccups here and there,” he says. “But we work together.” CRS
Break down the roadblocks
Don’t leave barriers to good service in your system.
by Russ Dantu
Recently, I had some trouble with a wellknown freight company. The experience made me reflect on the problem of having customers encounter “hard stops” in an organization that prevent them from getting the help they need.
The company in question was bringing a package from one of my suppliers from Ontario to Calgary. The typical delivery time is four to five days depending on weather. The client was a 30-year relationship so I was anxious to make sure everything went well.
On day five, the package was in the freight company’s Calgary warehouse and appeared to be in the delivery process. I waited around all day, but nothing arrived. When I checked the tracking, it appeared to be delayed. At this point, I assumed it didn’t make it on the delivery truck and would arrive on day six. Day six came and went with no package. Concerned, I called my supplier and asked for an explanation. After a short while on hold they informed me an email was sent to the warehouse to get things moving. We all know what often happens to emails.
Train your staff to recognize frustration and de-escalate rather than stonewalling.
Still no package seven days later. This is when I reached out to the freight company directly and hit the roadblock. They informed me that they had no updates and sometimes packages take longer than anticipated. The conversation led nowhere, leaving me feeling more frustrated than I had before. At this point, I asked to speak to a supervisor which they refused to do. Instead, they encouraged me to check the online tracker for updates.
The freight company customer service representative did not provide any solutions for me or my customer. Grasping at straws, I reached out to my supplier once more and expressed my
concerns. With my suppliers’ help, I was able to get in contact with a supervisor who agreed the whole situation was unacceptable. The supervisor then reached out to the warehouse manager who personally put the package on a truck to get it delivered for the next day (day eight). My customer was very understanding but a bit stressed because we cut it very close.
Takeaways:
Train your staff to recognize and de-escalate frustrated customers rather than stonewalling. I confess that by the end of my conversation with customer service I was panicking and raised my voice. I should have kept my cool and the representative should have had a more helpful response. Something along the lines of: “Sir, I can hear the frustration in your voice, and I am sincerely sorry this is happening. I promise you I am going to escalate this and find out what is going on.” This would have eased the situation. It is possible the representative was only allowed to do what they did given their position. They may have been concerned that, if they spoke to their supervisor, it would reflect badly on them and their capabilities. We must have an open-door policy for our employees and let them know there is never a bad question to ask, even if it seems silly to the supervisor or manager. It’s better that employees ask questions and get the help they need to resolve a situation for a customer.
In the end, it worked out, but the added stress, frustration and additional work made for a very inconvenient conflict for everyone involved. Empowering your employees to do what is necessary will reflect well on your business.
I hope everyone has a happy holiday and New Year. CRS
Russ Dantu is a 30-year veteran of the rental industry and has been delivering workshops, keynotes and seminars on customer service for 15 years. Visit russdantu.com.
A rising tide lifts all boats
Collaboration over competition is sometimes the right strategy.
by Michelle Nicol, CERP
There’s no shortage of intense competition in the event rental industry. However, as the saying goes, “a rising tide lifts all boats.” Working with competitors rather than against them has the potential to lead to mutual benefits and an overall healthier industry.
The event rental industry is made up of a wide range of services. While competition is inevitable in any industry, the nature of our business often creates industry-specific challenges, such as an ever-changing demand in terms of trends, inventory and seasonal variations. Many companies might find themselves stretched thin during the busy seasons or struggling to employ drivers and warehouse staff during the off-season. This is where collaboration can provide a strategic advantage for all involved.
One of the most immediate benefits of collaborating with competitors is sharing resources such as inventory, fleet and manpower when it is most needed. To create successful collaborations, companies should seek out competitors with complementary strengths and inventory that would enhance or complete your offerings. For example, a company specializing in tents could collaborate with one that provides flooring or lighting solutions, while a company that specializes in furniture can partner with a decor-specific supplier. By making these additional offerings to your client, it not only enhances the customer experience (and earns you bonus points for going the extra mile for them) but also allows each company to focus on its core competencies.
Working together can also help companies reach new markets and clientele that they normally may not have had access to. Joint marketing efforts, such as shared booths at trade shows or co-hosted client or industry events may attract a larger and more diverse audience. By combining resources and offerings, companies can create more significant brand visibility and establish a reputation as a comprehensive solution for every type of event. To
ensure that all parties involved are happy with the return, regularly assessing the partnership’s performance is important. This can involve reviewing details such as customer satisfaction and feedback, sales figures, and operational efficiencies. By evaluating the partnership, companies can identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes to ensure it is working for all involved.
In addition, collaborative efforts can greatly improve customer satisfaction. When companies work together, they can offer clients more comprehensive services. Taking it one step beyond partnering with the rental companies, if you can seamlessly coordinate with a caterer, florist, or event planner, the result is a smoother experience for the client.
While there are many advantages to working with competitors, challenges may arise. You are not alone if you are worried about sharing sensitive information or losing clients to competitors. To address these concerns, it’s essential to create a culture of trust and transparency. Clearly defined roles and expectations can help lessen fears and build a cooperative spirit that encourages the sharing of knowledge and best practices for everyone’s benefit.
In the event rental industry, competition will always exist, but the power of collaboration should not be underestimated. By working with competitors, companies can share resources, expand their market reach, and enhance customer satisfaction. In a sector where success often hinges on reputation and reliability, fostering solid relationships with companies that align with your values and mission, can be the key to not just surviving but thriving. Embracing a collaborative mindset can transform a competitor into a partner, ultimately creating a more robust and complete industry for everyone involved. CRS
Michelle Nicol, CERP, is an award-winning account executive for Element Event Solutions in Toronto.
FUTURE FENCING
A fencing contractor has come up with a superior fencing method using earth drills.
by Joe Haynes
Benjamin Franklin once said, “Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement and success have no meaning.” Shawn King, owner of Mr. Fence, has applied this concept to his career in fencing.
With a driven mentality and a knack for innovation, King is on a mission to kick-start his fencing business. After years of experience and trial and error, he has developed a novel approach using Little Beaver earth drills. However, instead of keeping these processes for his own business, he set out to better the industry by teaching seminars and providing training and
knowledge online through Mr. Fence Academy (mrfenceacademy.com).
A STRONG FOUNDATION
King grew up in the fencing industry and started his fence installation journey at a family-owned business. As a result of the experience he gained at a young age, King was leading an installation crew before he could drive.
Although some fencing companies use skid steers, excavators and backhoes to dig fence post holes, King found that Little Beaver earth drills were the perfect solution for the residential application and has been using them for as long as he
With a driven mentality and the help of Little Beaver mechanical earth drills, King has rapidly expanded his fencing operation.
PHOTO CREDIT: MR. FENCE
can remember. These small-but-mighty mechanical drills offer plenty of power and speed with the advantage of a nimble, lightweight design that doesn’t tear up a lawn.
“We started using Little Beaver drills on the jobsite back in the ‘90s,” King explained. “The oneman operation is not only more efficient than twoman augers, it also increases safety with a torque tube that absorbs shock to minimize the chance of being thrown from the drill and getting bruised.”
In 2001, King decided to start his own fencing business in southern Indiana. Based on his experience with the drills he knew he could select options that maximize productivity for fencing. So, he turned his focus to how he could build speed and accuracy by homing in on technique.
“All my years of trial and error in the fencing industry allowed me to think outside the box when it came to maximizing performance with a mechanical drill,” said King. “I went through and trained each team member on technique and tips I learned throughout the years and developed a three-step process for the fencing crew to enhance productivity.”
THE KEY TO SUCCESS
King’s fencing process was developed with four main criteria. The method must be teachable, measurable, predictable and repeatable. After trying different alternatives, the final result involved three crew members: one to measure where the post holes should be, one to operate the drill and another to make sure each hole is ready for the post.
The first person goes throughout the yard to mark where each fence post should go. The drill operator follows behind and drills the post holes
at the markers. After each hole is drilled, the third person comes behind to “own the hole.” This means they take the remainder of the soil from the bottom of each hole and make sure it lines up with the other holes. After this person leaves each hole, it’s ready for a fence post. This process allows each crew member to focus on their assignments and minimizes the time it would take for each person to go back and forth to re-check work or plan the next hole.
“We can dig 25 to 30 fence post holes in 30 to 40 minutes with this method,” King said. “We’re at the point where we have it down to a science of how to track the progress and can tell a customer the exact number of man-hours a project will take us.”
King also designs custom tools that can keep up with his earth drills for maximum efficiency. These tools address other aspects of fence building, such as marking and spacing for layout and tools to assist with fence installation. This means crew members don’t even have to take out a measuring tape during the fencing process because everything has been built into the Mr. Fence package of tools. With specific tools designed for
Although some commercial fencing companies use skid steers, excavators and trackhoes to dig fence post holes, King has found mechanical earth drills are a faster and less costly option.
After years of experience and trial and error, Shawn King has developed what he considers a bulletproof method for fence installation. Using earth drills greatly reduces damage to the homeowner’s lawn.
TECH TIPS
King has built awareness for his fencing process and Little Beaver earth drills on social media to create an understanding of the capabilities they can offer. His passion for fencing has led to millions of views on TikTok and YouTube.
aluminum, chain-link, wood and vinyl fences, this addition makes measuring distances and other tedious tasks just as fast as using a Little Beaver to drill the fence post holes.
MR. FENCE ACADEMY
The time and energy King put into perfecting the fence installation process has allowed Mr. Fence to have great success in the residential fencing market. Before long, other fencing professionals asked King if they could watch his team install fences to implement some of the processes into their own work. This inspired King to take that interest to the next level.
King created Mr. Fence Academy to educate other fencing companies about ways to improve their productivity and safety. He uses the training sessions to teach what tools to buy and how to maximize performance and installation methods to try for improved efficiency.
“I spend the first 10 to 15 minutes of training discussing the benefits of Little Beaver mechanical drills,” King explained. “People assume earth augers are heavy and dangerous but when they learn how lightweight and productive Little Beaver earth drills are, their eyes are as wide as saucers.”
King spends part of his training going over safety tips, such as how to properly lift an earth drill and how to strap it down for transportation. He also educates participants on pinch points that can hurt an operator. Once he’s gone over the basics, he covers the typical wear parts of the auger and maintenance and other practical tips for how to maximize efficiency without sacrificing safety.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
King’s methods have certainly brought success to others. He recalled an instance where an individual just entering the fencing industry reached out to Mr. Fence Academy for training. By starting off with the right method, he got a jump start in the industry and was competing with companies that had been in business for decades.
“I learned everything the hard way when it came to finding success with an earth drill, which is why I have a story to back up
every topic I teach,” explained King. “There’s no point in reinventing the wheel. I like to share what I’ve learned with others so they can understand what their earth drills are capable of and expand on tried-and-true methods instead of starting from scratch.”
One lesson King has learned is that productivity and profitability don’t just come from knowing how to operate the equipment, but in understanding how to maintain it properly as well. Initially, he didn’t want to take time for routine maintenance, but soon discovered dedicating time to following manufacturer guidelines helps the drills run efficiently for years. He changed his strategy from running the drills until they broke and using them for parts to hiring a maintenance person to check the earth drills once per month, which extends the life of the equipment.
“I learned if you buy a new unit and take care of it, you won’t need to replace it as often,” said King. “At Mr. Fence Academy, I try to change the mindset that maintenance is a hassle and highlight how much time can be saved with simple monthly checks as opposed to extended down time from trying to perform maintenance just once a season.”
King also shares tips on techniques such as how to maximize the auger’s strength while drilling through tree roots or how to increase efficiency by always keeping the drill straight. These golden nuggets of advice can easily be implemented into any fencing program for maximum ROI, which makes Mr. Fence Academy a highly sought-after program for businesses of all experience levels.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
King has finessed his fencing method to the point where he can teach just about anyone to build a fence, regardless of experience. With businesses experiencing challenges across the country when it comes to finding skilled labor, the Mr. Fence method is more valuable than ever.
“There are plenty of people who might want a job in fence building, but don’t have the qualifications required to do it,” King said. “Our fencing process bridges that gap because you only need to learn how to use a level, straight edge and some power tools.”
King has built awareness for his fencing process and using earth drills on social media to create an understanding of the capabilities they can offer. His passion for fencing has led to millions of views on TikTok and YouTube, which keeps his team of 30 busy with plenty of leads, and Mr. Fence Academy bustling with learners.
“We need to stop building fences like our grandfathers did and start building fences the way our children will need to in the future,” said King. “As the next generation enters the workforce, efficient processes that can easily be taught are more important than ever. The Mr. Fence installation process opens the door to anyone interested in learning, all experience levels aside. With the addition of increased productivity and simplified processes, businesses can use the Mr. Fence method as a win for everyone involved.” CRS
Joe Hayes is president of Little Beaver.
Site security adds safety
Preventing equipment theft is just the start.
by James Hong
Let’s talk about equipment theft. For those who have experienced it, whether on a small or large jobsite, there is always some degree of havoc left behind. Take it from me, if you are a worker and have your tools stolen without any personal insurance it can be a real blow to the budget, self-reliance and cause for serious disappointment. For any company, theft can affect insurance policy costs, delay production and cause disruption. Taking pro-active steps to avoid equipment theft risks and promote awareness will reduce liabilities. The National Equipment Register estimates that construction equipment theft costs the Canadian industry approximately $300 million to one billion dollars annually. This staggering figure underscores the need for proactive measures to safeguard valuable equipment, tools and materials.
Construction sites are susceptible to theft due to various factors like unsecured equipment and tools; lack of surveillance and monitoring; easy access to sites (especially in remote areas); valuable equipment; and limited on-site security personnel. Because of all the goodies typically available on the jobsite, thieves often target high-value equipment like heat machinery and power tools. Theft can happen at any time, however most commonly theft happens overnight and if your site is not properly monitored you can become a
victim of theft.
A comprehensive strategy combining training, physical security, technology and community engagement can effectively mitigate equipment theft risks. It is important to incorporate theft prevention into worker onboarding training so that any red flags can be caught. Conduct regular toolbox meetings to discuss concerns or suspicions and emphasise the importance of reporting suspicious activity to your employees.
Make sure to include physical security measures on top of best practices with your employees to ensure any suspicious activity will be recognized. Perimeter fencing around the jobsite to control access is the simplest way to keep things safe. Surveillance and monitoring are great ways to deter thieves from entering a jobsite, especially when cameras are located clearly. There is also jobsite equipment tech and software tools that can track stolen items, such as GPS trackers that are placed in heavy machinery such as excavators and lifts.
Because this is a safety column, I’ll also point out that site security measures can prevent unauthorized people, children and pets from entering your yard or a jobsite and interacting with the equipment, even without a motive to steal it. Think for a moment about the possible ramifications of someone sleeping off a big night at the bar behind your excavator. Children playing on tall equipment with sharp edges can obviously get hurt.
Construction site equipment theft can have devastating consequences. By adopting a multi-faceted approach, contractors, workers, and project managers can minimize risks, protect valuable assets, and ensure project continuity. Vigilance, training, and community engagement are critical in preventing equipment theft.
Be well. Be safe. CRS
James Hong is a journalist, writer and OHS consultant
BIRD ON A WIRE
Safety around power lines is a matter of life and death.
by Macenzie Rebelo
Contact with electrical power lines has killed 20 people in Ontario in the last 10 years. As powerline safety and code specialist for the Ontario ESA, Patrick Falzon’s mission is to empower people with the information they need to avoid these horrific incidents. And as the industry that rents equipment and erects tents that can reach overhead high-energy lines, the industry has a role to play. Falzon shares his insight on safety implantation project programs and how to keep employees and customers safe.
HOW DID YOU FIND YOURSELF IN THE ELECTRICAL SAFETY BUSINESS?
I’ve been with Electrical Safety Authority for 18 years. Previously, I worked at Hydro Mississauga
for 15 years. I worked in the control room for about a year and a half and then eventually I was a high voltage design technician for about 10 years. So, I have well over 30 years utility experience underneath my belt right now with.
WHAT ARE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT POWER LINES?
There is a myth out there that all overhead power lines are insulated. That is false. The only lines that typically are insulated are the load voltage conductors up to 750 volts. Any of the wires going to your residence, those 99.9 percent of the time are insulated. The older locations where they have three separate conductors going to the house, those are what’s
called open bus wiring, and they only have weather coverings. They’re not insulated. People can get seriously injured or in some cases die if they make contact. Typically, overhead power lines are all high-voltage with non-insulated conductors. And people always ask me, “Well, why is it that utilities cannot put insulated conductors on high voltage lines if they’re dangerous?” The problem is, you’re putting a lot more poles into the public right away. The more you put insulated conductors out there, the heavier the lines become. So, instead of having 50-meter spans between one pole to another, you now must bring it down to 20 meters. The other issue is, when an insulating jacket is used, the ampacity of that conductor – the amount of current can be carried on there for loading –will decrease and cool down the conductor.
People think it is safe to touch a power line because they believe it is insulated, but that is a big myth. For example, someone will see a bird sitting on a wire and assume it is safe for human contact. That is not true because birds have a very small footprints, hence only contacting one wire. Whereas if a human were standing on the ground and touched a power line, they could experience a severe shock typically resulting in death.
On some sites you may see orange coverups on the power lines. They are not meant for worker protection. They are only there for identification purposes. Which means they are not safe to touch.
Recently we conducted a survey of 400 construction workers and 70 percent of them believed it was safe to touch an energized power line with orange cover ups. That is a scary number.
Around 14 years ago, I worked where a teenager was working a summer job and his life permanently changed. His task was to remove old scaffold from this building that was between power lines covered in orange casing. He accidently brushed the metal scaffold against the corner and the coverup energized at 13,800 volts. The teenager survived but he was in a coma for six months with third degree burns all over his body. The doctors concluded he would no longer see or hear again because of the electricity. His whole life changed because of the misconception that orange cover ups are safe.
HOW FREQUENT ARE POWER LINE ACCIDENTS IN ONTARIO?
In the past decade, we’ve had over 1,400 overhead power line contacts between members of the public and workers. So occupational and non-occupational. In 10 years, 20 people in Ontario have died from overhead power line contacts. Sixty
percent of those deaths are from the construction sector. Those 20 workers woke up for a hard day of work to provide for their family and did not make it home by the end of the day. This is why ESA is a huge passion of mine. One fatality is way too many.
WHAT STEPS CAN WE TAKE TO STAY SAFE FROM POWER LINES?
One of the first things that we always tell everyone is to perform a site assessment. Before a utility crew works on power lines, they gather a tailgate meeting to identify hazards on the job. So if I am a renting out a boom lift to install windows, it is important to know the conditions on the site. Will they be working on overhead lines? Will they be meters away from the boom equipment itself? Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act it is key to have a competent designated signaler on site.
A competent designated signaler is a person who understands the hazards of overhead power lines. There only function is to the overhead power lines and the equipment to make sure they do not encroach. If you cannot maintain that three meters, you should contact the local utility. At the end of the day, you want to make sure that site is safe.
People think it is safe to touch power lines because they are insulated. That’s a myth.
WHEN DO YOU NEED A COMPETENT DESIGNATED SIGNALER?
It is required by law that you have one if you breach into that three-meter zone. As a rental store owner, it is important to protect your customers and your employees and that they know the law. Going back to that survey we conducted, only 18 percent of construction workers know a safe distance from a power line. Which is an extremely low number. And these are the people who work constantly day by day near those power lines – and that’s why we’ve had 1,400 contacts in the past decade.
Excavating equipment and backhoes are major culprits for hitting power lines. Everyone is concentrating on not damaging the underground infrastructure but forgetting what is above them. A boom can easily contact an overhead power line. Which is why you’d need a competent designated signaler to keep you out of that three-meter line. Dump trucks are also one of our biggest culprits. They raise the dump truck box and
Patrick Falzon
at canadianrentalservice.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Canada’s rental industry conversation with host, Mike Lacey, editor of Canadian Rental Service.
EYE ON SECURITY
Digital monitoring safeguards equipment and jobsites.
by Macenzie Rebelo
When equipment is in constant motion in and out of your shop, it can be a challenge to ensure your product is always safe. Fortunately, there are more security software options than ever as advancements have been made over the last decade. Telematics, AI and GPS technology are all major players in modern security software, explains Erik Webb, digital commercial manager at Genie. Security software is a hands-off approach for business owners to ensure their fleet is protected at all times - even when they’re not there. “The rental industry is particularly vulnerable to equipment theft,” says technology analyst and journalist Carmi Levy. Prior to technology innovations, it was difficult
for rental businesses to know for certain if their items were being misused when it left the premises. “You are trusting customers to have your best interest at heart,” says Levy. Both Webb and Levy spoke to Canadian Rental Service to share their expertise and opinions on how security software is changing the industry for the better.
HOW DO THESE TECHNOLOGIES WORK TOGETHER?
Webb: A lot of companies or products, like Genie Lift Connect, use a module from a company called Trackunit. These modules plug into our equipment through telematics. From there, it pulls specific information from our machines like
its location. It then uploads that data through a wireless signal.
WHAT FEATURES DOES SECURITY SOFTWARE OFFER?
Webb: There are several features within security software. Most software offers a user portal; that is what Genie uses through Lift Connect. This provides the data on the equipment location and if the connection has been disconnected. Security software also provides locked-out access, which means only those authorized can operate the machine with a keycode. The machine won’t even start up without authorization. Telematics also plays a large role in geofencing. A business owner can set up a geofence of where the equipment is approved and if the equipment is removed from that location, it turns off or they are alerted. If, for example, you have a piece of equipment that you geofence to not leave a specific area of the jobsite, as soon as it leaves the parking lot, you’ll be notified. You can also set up the equipment rental for a certain period. If someone rents for the hour, then it will be set to that. A business owner will be alerted if someone is messing with the equipment. If somebody tries to disconnect or remove the telematic device itself the Trackunit manager will inform you.
HOW DOES TECHNOLOGY IMPACT THE RENTAL INDUSTRY?
Levy: Technology can provide visibility to business owners so they can identify abusive or criminal behaviour much sooner and often to the point that they can do something about it. Now, it is possible to get the equipment back, stop theft from happening and bring those accountable to justice. Technology returns some control and agency for rental business owners. Now you can know what is going on at all times and if something is suspicious.
WHAT ROLE DOES AI PLAY IN SECURITY SOFTWARE FOR CAMERAS?
Levy: Anyone can put a traditional or so-called “dumb camera” in a yard and point it at the equipment. But then, of course, if that’s all there is, it’s simply a camera that provides a feed, someone’s going to have to sit in front of the monitor and watch it and then decide in real-time whether there’s a problem or not that needs to be actioned. Whereas AI can determine whether what the camera is seeing is, in fact, problematic. AI also sends notifications to the business owner and informs them if someone has broken in, or if someone is trying to steal something. AI and security software can give you a much greater situational awareness of your assets and timely awareness of when those assets are under threat. If someone has broken in and is trying to rob your business, you’ll know immediately.
HOW CAN SECURITY SOFTWARE MAINTAIN RENTAL EQUIPMENT?
Webb: If a telematics device no longer has its constant power supply from the machine or is slowly losing its battery, it will
send out an alert within 15 minutes of it being disconnected. The owner or the operator will be aware and think, “Hey, my machine is suddenly not showing its location, and the power supply is done.” The device will inform you if it has simply lost battery compared to someone physically disconnecting it from the equipment. When it comes to placing a GPS or telematics device, we recommend having it installed in the engine compartment where it is not easily accessed. For example, with slab scissors, the device is located underneath the link stack. So, the only way you can get to it is if you can turn on the machine, put it up and lock it in place.
WHY IS PROTECTING YOUR FLEET ESSENTIAL?
Webb: You’re able to get a better idea of the true utilization of your fleet. You will know how many machines of a product are used compared to another. This helps you to optimize how your fleets are being used, what machines are rented out, and what you need to add to your fleet, depending on customer demand. Also, there is a level of having proprietary data coming from the device that troubleshoots when something goes wrong with the machine. This allows Genie’s service team to remotely access machinery and determine the issue. We can identify what kind of part needs to be fixed, and what the maintenance schedule would be. It allows service teams, both on the customer side and on our side, to be better and able to fix a machine or make sure that their fleet is always operating at max capacity.
AI can determine if what the camera is seeing is in fact problematic.
WHAT OTHER BENEFITS DOES SECURITY SOFTWARE OFFER?
Levy: These technologies are not simply just a crime prevention tool, but as a business growth tool. They allow a business that rents equipment to treat its rental assets as strategic assets. You can manage in a proactive way. Not only are you reducing loss, but you’re collecting data on how they’re used, how they’re rented and how they’re leveraged out in the field, which gives you insight into how to cater to future customers in a more effective manner going forward. If, for example, if you equip a device with air tags and other sensors on board, you can obtain some very valuable information on how it’s used, when it is rented out, which can then allow you to shape your offerings. From there you can adjust pricing and be much more strategic about how you rent equipment to an increasingly tech-forward customer base. CRS
DIGITAL TALK
Does AI really have applications in rental stores?
by Macenzie Rebelo
There is a common misconception that artificial intelligence is a 21st-century invention created by ChatGPT. “AI” was coined by two computer scientists, John McCarthy and Alan Turing in the 1950s. Although AI is not an entirely brand-new concept for most industries, it is slowly being integrated into the rental market – especially “generative” AI. According to IBM, generative AI is a subset of AI that uses generative models to produce text and images. Generative AI is ubiquitous in rental-specific software and provides users with tools to manage and optimize finances and equipment. Rental businesses have
been using rental software since its introduction in the 1980s. But in 2024, there is still more to learn about generative AI and what it offers the rental industry.
THE USE OF AI IN RENTAL SOFTWARE
AI is considered a tool that “enables computers and machines to simulate human learning, comprehension, problem-solving, decision-making, creativity and autonomy,” as stated in an article by IBM. “AI processes a massive amount of information and builds on top of that,” explains David Swan, Trackunit’s senior vice-president of products. “We’ve used
AI to cover things as broadly as a general machine for construction statistical analysis.”
For a rental business, AI allows for hands-free monitoring and recognition so that a human does not have to. Collin Pike, chief architect and head of cloud engineering at Point of Rental, explains the opportunities AI allows business owners. “We can train the models that will help automated damage recognition in equipment.” AI can determine whether a product is damaged before an operator manually inspects it themself. For example, if a customer returns a line maker with a broken wheel, sensors in the machine would pick up that the weight is unleveled and then identify the specific problem with the item.
AI use in rental software also offers “data-based decision making,” says Pike. Based on the information collected from contracts, equipment and the ROI, AI can predict what investments are best suited for business. “We are using AI to help accelerate recommendations for our customers and make better decisions.” According to Pike, Point of Rental’s AI technology can help procure items for sale, predict when equipment will need maintenance and trends amongst customers. Which, Pike suggests can ultimately make business owners more successful in the long run. Because AI identifies patterns in merchandise, it can suggest whether or not a business owner should invest in a certain product more. If a company is considering investing in more mini excavators, for instance, it could use AI to evaluate usage, time in the shop, maintenance costs and rates obtained to determine if the ROI would be worth it in their market.
HAND IN HAND
When a customer wants to rent an item without leaving the comfort of their home, an ecommerce website and software allow them to do so. The “internet economy is never going away,” says Gary Kappel, business development manager at Orion Software. “It’s all self-directed, you just need the right tools.” Orion Software is a solutions development company for the industry that offers inventory management software. “AI is a helper or an advisor,” he says and as he points out it is available at any given time. “Customers can make requests 24/7 which means they can pay 24/7.” An ecommerce platform with AI technology can recommend and adjust products based on a customer’s algorithm. “AI is going to be a part of the real-time technology,” explains Kappel. “Having an ecommerce site that showcases your assets the customer is going to be able to access your business at any time.”
The biggest benefit of AI in rental software is its ability to manage inventory efficiently. AI can recommend an angle that works best for your business based on the data explains Kappel.
“If you enter a make and model of a specific tractor, it would automatically fill out things like the specifications, the description and suggest images for you to select from,” echoes Pike. “It can also suggest service intervals that you might need to do maintenance on based on that specific model.” Automatically and effectively through data input and patterns, AI gives a business owner the data necessary to make more informed deci-
sions. When updating a website with products such as loaders, excavators or scissors lifts, the software speeds up the rental operation by upgrading the inventory with how much of a certain product is left, how much weight it can hold and the gallons necessary for the job. “It allows for consistent information to be added onto the item records,” says Pike. “Which means a richer experience when consumers look at those items.”
Rather than having to go through a yard and go through each scissor lift to find one with a serial number and charge - with a single click AI can do that for you, explains Swan. “AI should be a day one tool you hand out along with the keys.” To him, there are so many hours in a day a staff member can get back simply by going to digitalization and using AI in rental software programs. “You could be earning revenue and completing a job somewhere else in that time,” he says. “It is all the data you need in one place.” CRS
SOFTWARE
POINT-OF-RENTAL INTRODUCES READY TAG
8 point-of-rental.com
Point of Rental has created Ready Tag, a digital and easy-to-use mobile software solution that allows rental store owners whether an item is ready to rent. Ready Tag will be a feature of Point of
RotoRake
Rental One, Point of Rental’s mobile app. Ready Tag automatically builds a queue of items requiring a post-rental inspection. From this list, staff can search and select the item they are servicing, inspect it using a built-in checklist and document its condition. Once the item passes inspection, it will show as available in Elite. “Current rent-ready tags are helpful, but paper processes always have inefficiencies,” said product manager John Wooten. “The item’s ‘ready’ status displays in Elite so a person working the counter can see items that have been returned but have yet to be serviced.”
TRIMBLE AND JOHN DEERE COLLABORATE IN GRADE CONTROL 8 trimble.com
Trimble and John Deere have joined together in a strategic relationship to innovate grade control technology in the construction industry. With this expanded relationship, select John Deere machines
equipped with SmartGrade technology will make Trimble Earthworks available directly from the factory or as a field upgrade. This integration will allow machines equipped with SmartGrade to fit seamlessly into the Trimble technology ecosystem simplifying the ways to connect the office to the field and leverage jobsite data. To make adoption seamless for the customer, various purchasing options will be available in the future for John Deere SmartGrade with Trimble Earthworks, including factory direct or field installations and as part of the Trimble Construction One suite of digital solutions.
Mecalac’s telematics system, developed in partnership with Trackunit, a worldwide leader in telematics solutions, is accessible through a web portal, mymecalac.com, and a mobile app, MyMecalac. The system comes standard on all excavators and loaders in North America. The onboard telematics box continuously communicates information to the web portal. Users simply login to the web portal or app to access all machine data in real-time. MyMecalac provides a complete fleet overview that shows users which machines are in top shape, and which need immediate attention or will require service soon.
engine hours, fuel rate and usage, diesel exhaust fluid level, battery voltage and more. By obtaining accurate and current performance information, users can quickly identify and address minor mechanical issues before they become serious. Equipment owners can access data and generate reports using the online X-Command dashboard on their computer or mobile device.
RCT’S SPEED LIMITING SOLUTION THE KEY FOR SAFETY
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The tamper-resistant design also conveniently interfaces directly into a machine throttle circuit. In addition, a geo-fencing kit was implemented on site to further control the trucks speeds in different locations and a proportional retarder control system to make sure the truck maintains a constant speed no matter the gradient it is manoeuvring on.
MCS RENTAL SOFTWARE OPTIMIZES BULK RENTALS
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MECALAC BRINGS NEW FLEET MANAGING SYSTEM TO
PETTIBONE X-COMMAND TELEMATICS FOR TELEHANDLERS
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NORTH AMERICA
8 mecalac.com
Mecalac, a global designer, manufacturer and distributor of compact construction equipment for urban environments, has released its fleet management system, MyMecalac. This telematics solution delivers everything from high-level summaries to specific machine details, including maintenance, inspection and damage notifications, to empower fleet managers to boost efficiency and machine uptime.
Pettibone has introduced X-Command, a telematics program available for the company’s X-Series telehandlers, Cary-Lift pipe and pole handlers and Speed Swing rail maintenance machines. The system offers real-time access to machine data, thereby saving time, money and hassle for equipment owners, fleet managers, rental centres and maintenance technicians. X-Command allows users to remotely track a machine’s location and observe data points such as
A Western Australian mine recently approached RCT for a speed limiting solution to safeguard three of its newly acquired underground trucks and its operators at its mine site. The trucks, equipped with seven gears from factory settings and the client wanted to be able to control the speed of the trucks while underground to ensure safety of operators and the mine itself.
“In order to speed up trucking tonnes-kilometres the client wanted to speed limit the trucks underground but have the operators to still be able to utilise all of the gears at a higher speed while on the surface,” said RCT’s account manager Scott Phillips. The state-of-the-art safety solution is fully programable with four speed settings available to suit individual needs to various situations and speeds.
MCS Rental Software has introduced key updates for bulk rental operations, tackling the logistical and financial complexities of non-serialized rentals. These enhancements streamline tracking, automate project allocations and improve delivery and return accuracy. The new phased delivery scheduling feature enables rental businesses to manage large orders in stages, ensuring equipment arrives at the right time and sequence. The software also simplifies check-ins by categorizing returned items by condition cleaning required, damaged, or beyond repair—each with linked charges for accurate billing. For yard operations, real-time tracking updates item availability upon return, keeping stock levels accurate and operations organized.
Bridging the gap with AI
For more years now, it has been well documented that much of the transportation infrastructure that connects Canadians from coast to coast is in need of a makeover.
by Andrew Snook Infrastructure Resiliency through Bridge Monitoring
In a 2020 public infrastructure survey titled, Canada’s Core Public Infrastructure Survey: Roads, bridges and Tunnels, 2020, road conditions listed as “poor” or “very poor” condition comprised 13 percent of the country’s road network. Bridge infrastructure didn’t perform much better with 11 percent earning a rating of “poor” or “very poor.” While navigating cracked and chipping asphalt and massive potholes can be a frustrating experience, the thought that more than one of every 10 bridges I drive across is not in great shape is particularly unsettling.
For those of you who think our bridges would never suffer the same catastrophic bridge failures of other countries, remember that on Sept. 20, 2006, a concrete overpass in Laval, Que., collapsed resulting in the deaths of five people and six others being injured. The review that followed found the bridge failure was due to a combination of improper inspection and concrete deterioration and cracks. When you add in the additional wear and tear that can take place due to increasing numbers of extreme weather events (flooding, for example) and an increasing population of motorists, Canada’s governments need to increase their efforts and their spend, to ensure all of our road and bridge infrastructure is as structurally sound as possible.
Thankfully, the National Research Council is involved in a new initiative called the AI for Logistics Program. This initiative is a collaboration between NRCan researchers, experts from Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, the University of Manitoba, and Esri Canada (a provider of geospatial solutions).
The AI for Logistics initiative is involved in a new research project designed to help keep an eye on our country’s aging roads and bridges. The research project is called A DataDriven Approach to Enhance Transportation
and is valued at more than $2 million with $1.4 million of the funding coming from Defence Research and Development Canada’s Canadian Safety and Security Program (CSSP), which is managed in partnership with Public Safety Canada.
The project involves using and comparing two monitoring technologies for bridge monitoring: satellite-borne radar sensors and in-situ sensors attached to the surface of structural elements of the bridge to assess strain, acceleration and temperature. The research project ivestigating the use of satellite-based bridge monitoring using Synthetic Aperture Radar imagery. NRCan defines SAR imagery as “a type of active data collection where a sensor produces its own energy and then records the amount of that energy reflected back after interacting with the earth or the built environment.”
Research projects in Manitoba are creating an AI-based bridge health predictor that could assist governments in their decisions on where investment dollars for bridge maintenance, renewals and replacements should take place. These technologies have the potential to be particularly useful for monitoring bridges in remote and northern regions where access to exposed bridge sections can be more difficult (and riskier). It is also important to note that in the 2020 public infrastructure survey referenced above that bridges in rural and remote communities were rated in worse shape than in large municipalities. With infrastructure spend being recommended in many remote (and sometimes forgotten) communities, this could spell opportunity for the equipment rental stores in these areas.
To learn more about this project, visit NRCan’s website. CRS
Andrew Snook is an independent business writer and former editor of Rock to Road and Crane & Hoist magazines.
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