A-Plant launches unmanned tool hire cabin

A-Plant has launched an unmanned Auto Tool Hire Unit designed to be located at customers' sites to provide instant access to tools.

The standard unit, which was introduced to some of A-Plant's customers on 7 July, is based on a 30 ft container. It requires a keycard to enter a lobby area, with the same card used to open the inner equipment store with the main door closed.

Equipment in the cabin is RFID tagged and automatically registers when it is taken out of the unit.

"The unit stays on the site for as long as the customer wants", said Mark Pudney, managing director - sales, "There is no collection or delivery charges, and the equipment is available on site."

The pricing structure for the cabin is yet to be established, and it might be possible to link the cabin to a secure compound stocking larger equipment.

Customers will be able to check online what is being rented from the cabin, as well as charges being incurred.