United Rentals Unveils Two New Digital Features to Simplify Rental Decisions and Boost Jobsite Productivity
United Rentals Inc. recently launched two new features in its suite of digital tools: Smart Suggestions and Equipment Fit Augmented Reality (AR). The company said these enhancements help customers make faster, more confident rental decisions by anticipating needs and providing greater jobsite visibility before placing an order.
United Rentals explained the new enhancements in further detail:
- Smart Suggestions uses advanced machine learning to recommend equipment based on factors such as customer order history, jobsite data, seasonality and industry trends. The tool predicts what customers are most likely to need next, helping them bypass a full catalog search and move quickly to the right rental option. Early results show a 27 percent reduction in the time it takes users to identify and order the equipment they need.
- Equipment Fit AR gives customers the ability to virtually place 3D models of equipment on their jobsite using a mobile device. This feature makes it easier to evaluate equipment dimensions, confirm proper fit, and plan for placement in tight or restricted-access areas. Equipment Fit AR is currently available for select equipment categories, with additional offerings under development.
More on the Digital Tools
According to the press release, both tools were designed to simplify the rental experience and improve productivity. They were developed by using direct feedback from contractors and operations teams across North America.
“Smart Suggestions and Equipment Fit AR are about anticipating customer needs,” explained Paul Maddison, director of product management at United Rentals. “By leveraging machine learning and augmented reality, we’re giving customers tools that help them make confident, informed decisions at the moment of rental. It’s about delivering the right equipment at the right time, with less friction.”
The company noted that these innovations build on United Rentals’ expanding portfolio of digital capabilities. These digital tools allow customers to browse, reserve and manage equipment rentals seamlessly from any device.
Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.
