United Rentals offers 3D visualisation of equipment on site

United Rentals has added two new digital tools for its customers, offering automatic recommendations on equipment and the ability to see a 3D visualisation of machines on jobsites.

‘Smart Suggestions’ uses machine learning to recommend equipment based on factors including order history, jobsite data, seasonality and industry trends. It predicts what customers are most likely to need next and helps to bypass a full catalogue search.

United said early results showed a 27% reduction in the time to identify equipment and place an order.

United Rentals is now offering two new digital tools for its customers. (Photo: United Rentals)

The second innovation is ‘Equipment Fit AR’, which allows customers to virtually place 3D models of equipment on a jobsite using their mobile device.

It is designed to make it easier to evaluate equipment dimensions, confirm a proper fit, and plan for placement in tight or restricted areas.

The tool is currently available for select equipment categories, with more under development.

United said the tools were developed following direct feedback from contractors and its operations teams across North America.

“Smart Suggestions and Equipment Fit AR are about anticipating customer needs,” said 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.”

United’s existing digital tools allow customers to browse, reserve, and manage equipment rentals from any device.

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