CRS - February 2026

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4

EDITORIAL

These boots were made for walking.

18

STUMP GRINDERS AND WOOD CHIPPERS

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean we can’t start thinking about spring.

17 EVENTOLOGY

It’s a new year and the perfect time to reassess how you are supporting your customers.

10

GRIT AND INGENUITY

A close partnership made The Rental Hub what it is today, with more growth ahead.

24

REFINING THE DESIGN

For 40 years, Cory Halischuk has sought out new ways to make a job easier.

22

AT YOUR SERVICE

Revenue churn is inevitable, which is why having an active pipeline to handle it each year is vital.

14

SAFE DRIVERS, SAFE LOADS

Proactive trailer safety practices protect your workforce and your business.

26

BIG IMPACT

The newest in landscaping equipment highlighted at Landscape Ontario Congress

30

SNOOK’S LOOK

The best way to tackle housing affordability is to make building more affordable.

These boots were made for walking

by Mike Lacey

The largest construction show in North America hits the Las Vegas stage this March and we will be there

CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is less than two months away. The week-long event in Las Vegas happens just once every three years and is the largest construction show in North America.

And every major OEM will be there.

This is my first time attending and I have been warned to bring a good pair of shoes. There is, I am told, quite a bit of walking involved.

Now, I’m not new to large shows. I’ve attended the ARA Show, World of Asphalt, the Canadian Concrete Expo and the Heavy Equipment Show. But, they say, CONEXPO is a different animal.

This year’s show will feature more than 2,000 exhibitors and it feels like they are emailing me daily.

And as soon as the calendar turned to 2026, I quickly began to understand how different it actually is. My inbox is flooded daily with emails from marketing companies.

They want to schedule interviews. They want to invite me to special press events. But, most importantly, they want me to share with you information on the latest equipment and products that will be on display at this year’s show.

And, it’s a lot.

There are more than 2,000 exhibitors at the show. These are companies manufacturing equipment and products in sectors like asphalt, concrete, land clearing, lifting, safety, trucking and underground construction. Companies include CASE Construction, John Deere/Wirtgen, Liebherr, Sany, Hyundai, and I could go on.

Canadian manufacturer Skyjack will have its newest electric scissor lifts and articulating booms on display. According to Skyjack, its new SJ5545 E electric drive scissor lift features the highest working height in Skyjack’s range of slab scissors at 15.55 metres (51 feet) and has a load capacity of 349.2 kilograms (770 pounds).

Attendees will get a chance to see Volvo CE’s new generation models in the compact excavator lineup. The company says its 55,00-square-foot booth will feature 14 new machines and an operating pit where visitors can test excavator models. They also plan on having members of Discovery Channel’s Gold Rush tv show on hand.

This is tricky for us to navigate so I can only imagine the trouble our readers may have in keeping track of all the news that will come out of it.

That’s why we have set up a dedicated section on our website specifically for CONEXPO-CON/AGG coverage. This includes articles leading up to the show as well as coverage while at the show.

Lastly, some news to share for those who pay attention to the names on the masthead and the bylines. In the fall of 2025, our associate editor Macenzie Rebelo was named editor of Crane and Hoist Magazine.

With Macenzie’s departure, that left an opening for the magazine, which we filled at the end of 2025. I‘d like to introduce you to the newest associate editor for Canadian Rental Association, Colin Leggett.

Colin has been heavily involved in the digital side of journalism and we’re excited to have him help us improve our coverage online and on social media, as well as in our print editions we publish six times a year. Colin and I will be attending a variety of trade shows and conferences over the next few months. Make sure to say ‘hello’ and if you see us out and about. CRS

INDUSTRY NEWS

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION TO BE HELD IN PERSON FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2026

Women in Construction 2026 will mark the annual event’s first time being held in person.

The event will take place at the Sandman Signature Hotel in Mississauga on April 9. It will run from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST. It will include a hot breakfast, exclusive panels and valuable networking sessions fit for women in all areas and roles of construction and trades.

Women in Construction 2026 will delve into three crucial topics: breaking down institutional progress and the ongoing need for advocacy for women in construction, designing safe workwear and PPE for women and navigating gender bias in customer service.

The event will begin with a hot breakfast and networking at 7:30 a.m. before moving onto the keynote kickoff at 8:30 a.m. The first panel will begin at 9:15 a.m. It will explore the ongoing need for advocacy for women in construction and ask if the topic is still considered taboo within the industry, how much progress has truly been made and what work remains. Jen Mutas, Field OHS Manager for BC Crane Safety, will moderate a panel that includes:

• Kate Walsh, Program Manager, Ontario Building and Construction.

• Christine Chan, Special Projects Division Operations Manager, Canadian Turner Construction Company.

• Shanuja Nagarathinam, Associate, Moses Engineering.

• Joan Strawn, Health and Safety Manager, Damisona.

The second panel will begin at 10:15 a.m. after a short coffee break. It will address the need for more functional, durable and properly fitting workwear for women in the trades that accommodates the needs of women and their bodies.

Panelists will include:

• Leslie Dibling, Director of Organizational Development, AMC Services, Women of Asphalt.

• Katie Hughes, HVAC Service Technician, and Ambassador, Women in HVAC-R.

• Constanza Maass, Co-Founder & Director Strategy, Women On Site.

The third panel will begin at 11 a.m. and will tackle the topic of gender bias in customer service. It will provide support and practical guidance for women who have experienced discrimination from customers and offer strategies on how to respond to these situations effectively and safely. Macenzie Rebelo, editor of Crane & Hoist Canada, will moderate a panel that includes:

• Rylie Porter, Operations Manager and Director of Marketing, Women On Site.

• Susan Carey, President, BuildSafe and President Elect, CAWIC.

• Leanne Exley, Road Service Technician, Stephenson’s Rental.

• Natasha Ferguson, Founder, A Woman’s Work and Chairman of the Board, Ontario Black Contractors Association.

Following the third panel, the show will wrap up and conclude at 12 p.m. Accommodations can be booked online or by phone at 1-800-SANDMAN (1-800-726-3626). The group rate of $159 a night is offered until March 6 for rooms booked for one night on April 8 to 9. Attendees can mention the group name Women in Construction or Block ID: 602895 to receive the group rate.

THE AMERICAN RENTAL ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES ITS 2025 INDUSTRY AWARD RECIPIENTS

The American Rental Association will present industry awards to individuals chosen for outstanding service to the association and the equipment and event rental industry.

Recipients will be recognized for their achievements at The ARA Show 2026 in Orlando.

Bob Christopher, general manager of Heater Sales & Service in Nisku, Alta. and Stoney Creek, Ont. will receive the 2025 ARA Exemplary Service Award.

The award recognizes an individual or group that makes a significant contribution in a defined area of association service including government affairs, education, technology and workforce development.

The ARA says Christopher championed the advancement of its presence across Canada in 2025. Christopher volunteered to serve on the ARA’s Golf Committee. The ARA says his work on the day of its Ontario-area tournament was a key to their success.

Christopher co-organized an ARA of Canada working group focusing on the new CSA B138 Standard on portable oilburning equipment. He helped launch its inaugural meeting and has provided education on the Standard to industry members as an active member of the team.

Karen Ackerman, CERP, Special Event Rentals in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, will receive the Leadership Impact Award for Region 10. The award recognizes members whose leadership benefitted their province or local assocation.

INDUSTRY NEWS

COOPER EQUIPMENT RENTALS PARTNERS WITH SKYJACK FOR GOLDEN EQUIPMENT CAMPAIGN

Cooper Equipment Rentals is partnering with Skyjack for its fifth annual Golden Equipment campaign to raise money for local community initiatives.

The campaign includes the launch of nine new golden telehandlers, a gold trench shield and a golden pump. The new units rolled out nationwide on Jan. 6.

The Golden Equipment campaign was first launched in January 2022 as part of Cooper’s 50th anniversary celebration. It has raised more than $575,000 for local charities with a focus on children’s and family mental health. The campaign originally featured eight golden excavators representing each region Cooper serves, a golden trench shield and golden pump.

Cooper will retire the current golden excavators and transition to new Skyjack telehandlers. Cooper says the transition is part of its broader commitment to ensuring the Golden Equipment campaign continues to make a significant community impact.

Cooper is also launching a national #SpotCooperGold challenge. It encourages Canadians to share photos of the golden equipment for a chance to win prizes.

NORS ALIGNS CANADIAN OPERATIONS UNDER SINGLE NATIONAL STRUCTURE

Nors is bringing its eastern and western equipment businesses together under one co-ordinated model.

The move is aimed at standardizing service levels while maintaining local branches and service teams. Nors says the national alignment will help reduce fragmentation and improve co-ordination for customers managing fleets and projects in multiple regions.

The company also announced the appointment of Sudhanshu Singh as Chief Executive Officer of Nors Construction Equipment Canada, effective March 1, 2026.

Singh was appointed CEO of Nors Construction Equipment Canada ST on Jan. 5, 2026. He is currently completing a two-month transition period to assume leadership of Nors Construction Equipment Canada GW.

Singh is working closely with current CEO Colin Matejka, whose tenure will conclude on Feb. 28, 2026. Nors says Singh will focus on advancing integration across the company’s Canadian businesses and strengthening governance and operational alignment nationwide.

Nors previously purchased Canadian companies Strongco in early 2020 and Great West Equipment in 2024. At the end of 2024, Nors announced it was rebranding and all companies would take on the Nors name.

THE CANADIAN RENTAL ASSOCIATION NAMES NEW PRESIDENT

The Canadian Rental Association has announced Calgary native Warren Carriere as its new president.

Carriere currently works as a sales manager at Cooper Equipment Rentals Ltd. in Calgary. The CRA states that he has 25 years of experience in the rental industry and has spent the last 10 years contributing to both local and national CRA boards.

The CRA notes Carriere has helped strengthen industry collaboration, member engagement and the association’s strategic direction.

Carriere was born in Calgary and raised in Saskatchewan. He values community, leadership and the importance of a strong, connected rental network across Canada. Carriere has two daughters he says continue to inspire his dedication and work ethic.

Carriere says he is enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and the positive direction in which the association is moving. He says he looks forward to supporting members, advancing key initiatives and building on the strong foundation established by past leadership.

No matter what sector of construction you’re in, you’ll leave CONEXPO-CON/AGG with

This isn’t just North America’s largest construction trade show, it’s taking construction to the next

INDUSTRY NEWS

THE CANADIAN RENTAL ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY

The Canadian Rental Association (CRA) is marking the start of its 60th year supporting Canada’s equipment and event rental sector.

The CRA says it has seen firsthand how the industry’s ingenuity, diversity and hard work have helped Canadians make big things happen in every region of the country since 1966.

The 60-year milestone recognizes a sector whose strengths continue to build communities and support a national rental market that was projected to grow 3.4 per cent in 2025 to reach $8.5 billion.

The rental sector played a vital role in nation-building projects and moments throughout Canada’s history. Rental companies supplied the equipment, infrastructure, furnishings, power, staging and technical expertise that enabled Canada to welcome the world to Expo 67 through three Olympic Games

Engineering landmarks like the CN Tower and the Confederation Bridge, festivals, cultural celebrations and major public events were made possible with rental solutions and professional support.

MILWAUKEE TOOL GROWING CANADIAN FOOTPRINT WITH PLANNED ONTARIO EXPANSION

Milwaukee Tool will increase its Canadian service infrastructure with a new service hub in Georgina, Ont.

The company will utilize a 54,000 square foot space in the Keswick Business Park.

It says this will strengthen Georgina’s position as a growing hub for logistics, manufacturing and service operations in northern York Region.

Milwaukee Tool chose the Keswick Business Park following an extensive site review process. Its advantages include a one-hour drive to the Greater Toronto Area’s urban core via Highway 404. It is also 35 minutes from Highway 401 and 60 minutes from Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The service hub will employ more than 60 people and is expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2026.

The company says it will enhance turnaround times, strengthen customer support and streamline service processes.

Milwaukee Tool intends to improve workflow, increase capacity and provide a more consistent service experience for users nationwide by consolidating multiple facilities into one modern, purpose-built site.

It says the hub will enable better parts management, improve logistics and build a stronger ability to meet rising customer demand.

The company also plans to launch its first-ever Canadian Distribution Centre in 2026.

It says this separate facility will improve shipment times for Canadian customers by moving inventory into local stock.

COMING EVENTS

2026

March 2-4 2026

ARA Show

Orlando, FL. arashow.org

March 3-7 2026

CONEXPO 2026

Las Vegas, NV. conexpoconagg.com

March 18-19, 2026

New York Build Expo New York, N.Y. newyorkbuildexpo.com/

March 24 - 26, 2026

Atlantic Builders Convention 2026 Atlantic City, N.J. abconvention.com/

March 26-27, 2026

Atlantic Heavy Equipment Show Moncton, New Brunswick ahes.ca

April 9, 2026

Women in Construction Mississauga, Ont. events.annexbusinessmedia.com/ event/women-in-construction-breakfast/

April 23-24, 2026

National Heavy Equipment Show Mississauga, Ont. nhes.ca

Oct. 21-22, 2026

BUILDEX Alberta Calgary, Alta. informaconnect.com/buildex-alberta/

KOMATSU INVESTS IN CANADIAN OPERATIONS WITH NEW FULL-SERVICE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE

Komatsu is doubling the size of its parts distribution footprint and transforming its Edmonton parts depot into a full-service distribution center.

Komatsu states this expansion marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing effort to enhance service levels, reduce lead times and better support dealers and customers across Canada.

The new facility, spanning approximately 135,000 square feet, will double the capacity of Komatsu’s existing warehouse.

This upgrade enables Komatsu to store and distribute fast-moving parts directly from Edmonton, significantly improving delivery times — including 24-hour delivery capabilities to its dealers in western Canada.

“Our customers rely on Komatsu for uptime and productivity, and this investment ensures we can meet those expectations faster and more efficiently than ever,” said Danny Murtagh, Vice President of Parts and Infrastructure. “By bringing parts closer to where our customers operate, we’re cutting lead times, boosting availability and improving customer service.”

The expanded Edmonton facility will transition from a regional depot to a fully integrated parts distribution hub and serve as a cornerstone of Komatsu’s North American logistics network and streamlining supply routes from Komatsu’s global manufacturing hubs in Japan and Indonesia.

Key features of the new operation include:

• Expanded capacity for faster-moving and strategic inventory

• Advanced system integration with Komatsu’s global planning and warehouse management system (WMS) platforms

• Improved warehouse efficiency through updated layouts, automation and new equipment

• Enhanced workforce capacity, with plans to add additional staff and technological support

STEPHENSON’S RENTAL SERVICE ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF RIVERSIDE RENTALS

Stephenson’s Rental Services is expanding its footprint in Windsor, Ont. through the acquisition of Riverside Rentals.

Stephenson’s says the acquisition marks an important step in strengthening its ability to support its expanding customer base across Southwestern Ontario.

Riverside Rentals was founded in 1987 by Gene and Phil Morand and houses a comprehensive indoor rental fleet in its 22,000-square-foot facility.

The Windsor branch will operate fully under the Stephenson’s Rental Services brand to give customers access to the company’s network of expertise and resources.

DOOSAN BOBCAT NO LONGER LOOKING TO ACQUIRE WACKER NEUSON

Doosan Bobcat will not continue with its acquisition of Wacker Neuson, according to a statement from the latter company.

Wacker Neuson said in a Jan. 22 press release that discussions between it and Doosan Bobcat Inc. regarding the acquisition of a majority stake and takeover of Wacker Neuson SE will not be continued.

Wacker Neuson says it remains focused on executing its Strategy 2030 pursuing sustainable growth.

Wacker Neuson originally issued a statement on Dec. 2, 2025 that its

executive board was in advanced discussion with Doosan Bobcat regarding the possible acquisition of the company.

Doosan Bobcat originally planned to acquire shares approximating 63 per cent of Wacker Neuson’s share capital from major shareholders.

At the time, Wacker Neuson said it could not predict whether the sale of shares by the major shareholders or a

public takeover offer would actually take place.

Wacker Neuson Group is a global manufacturer of light and compact equipment, serving the agriculture, construction, landscaping, manufacturing, rail transport and recycling sectors.

Its brands include Wacker Neuson, Kramer, Weidemann and Enar.

Doosan Bobcat manufacturers compact equipment, material handling equipment and portable power.

Its brands include Bobcat, Doosan, Geith and Steiner.

by TREENA HEIN

GRIT AND INGENUITY

A close partnership made The Rental Hub what it is today, with more growth ahead

The story of The Rental Hub is the best sort of story. It begins with a dream and ends with that dream becoming reality through determination, hard work and more than a little ingenuity. It’s now been more than 21 years since long-time friends Dale Hubble and Peter Moher started The Rental Hub in June 2004.

They’d first met each other in minor hockey and then attended the same high school.

“We’ve known each other for most of our lives and we became good friends,” says Hubble.

After high school and university, they both decided to enter the rental industry and were both hired at the same company as branch managers. In the five years that followed, Hubble and Moher talked here and there about their future career plans.

“We wanted to start a business together and we were trying to figure out what to do,” says Hubble. “We both liked the rental industry and we thought, why not stay in it?”

The first thing to do was to find a good location for their new enterprise. They scoured the Durham, Ont. region and Moher found a new plaza being built on a busy artery called South Service Road. The units were 2,500-square-feet and this would work well for the pair of budding entrepreneurs. Until the plaza was finished, they arranged to use an office at the Durham Business Advisory Centre to meet with potential suppliers.

“We wanted to get to know the sales reps, get pricing, availability and see what support they offered,” says Hubble. “It was good to have faceto-face meetings with people we would be using for our equipment needs and they appreciated it too. We’d also be sending in credit applications

to these companies but now they had also met us and knew a little bit about us that wouldn’t be on the application.”

Hubble and Moher also had to find a willing insurance company. This proved difficult until they contacted the Canadian Rental Association for assistance.

But at some point it became clear that their plan to move into the plaza by May 2004 would not be realized. The building was nowhere close to being complete at that time. Hubble and Moher talked over their options and then went to the building owner with an idea. Thankfully, the owner agreed to give them permission to operate behind the building for a couple of months. The rental equipment would be kept in sea containers, and while the risk of theft would be very high, Hubble and Moher found a solution for that too.

“We took turns sleeping in a camper trailer back there to keep an eye on everything,” Hubble recalls with a smile.

There was obviously only a small Rental Hub fleet at this point. It included a skid steer, a small excavator, generators, pumps, hammer drills, lawn and garden equipment, and small tools like plate tampers. Rentals to homeowners went well enough, and The Rental Hub was open on Saturdays to serve that segment.

“We took turns sleeping in a camper trailer back there to keep an eye on everything.” – Dale Hubble, The Rental Hub

But in those early days, the construction segment was a whole other matter. Hubble and Moher diligently visited all the construction sites in the area, introducing The Rental Hub to project managers and asking if they would consider renting a few items. But the impact of this strategy was basically nothing. There were already many large rental businesses in Durham and The Rental Hub obviously

didn’t remotely compare to them, not in equipment range, trucking capabilities or anything else. They were met with skepticism and turned down most of the time. But eventually they got their first booking and, from there, the bookings grew.

Hubble and Moher employed creativity to those bookings whenever possible.

“For the first couple of years if we did have a skid steer or excavator on a job site

and if the site was idle on the weekends and someone else wanted to rent the skid steer or excavator for the weekend, we would talk to the site supervisor,” Hubble explains. “We’d ask if we could pick it up Friday evening, rent it out for the weekend, service it Sunday night and have it back to the site Sunday night or Monday morning. We didn’t want to lose a single rental. It usually worked out very well.”

THE MOVE TO BOWMANVILLE

In 2010, Moher and Hubble purchased their own location in Courtice/ Bowmanville, where The Rental Hub remains today. At the time it was more property than they needed, but of course they grew into it. There was lots of room

to display equipment in the yard to entice potential customers driving by. There was also a nice, 3,500-square-foot building with a large service bay.

Hubble explains that in those early years, Bowmanville didn’t have a lot of construction, but as the years went by that changed. As their construction rentals grew, Hubble and Moher sold off the lawn and garden equipment and closed on Saturdays to focus solely on construction equipment.

“The industry has changed a lot in my 27 years of being in it,” says Hubble. “Small tools that we used to rent, most people just buy now. That was a big influencer in moving towards larger equipment.” The Rental Hub now offers a large range of more in-demand heavy equipment such as booms, telehandlers, scissor lifts, compressor light towers, excavators and skid steers.

Their foray into the aerial sector started in 2014 with one 45-foot boom. It sat for quite a few months, however.

“We were not known yet for that type of equipment,” says Hubble. “Today we offer 45-, 60- and 80-foot booms, and a range of telehandlers from 5,000 to 12,000-pound capacities.”

In terms of delivery at the new location, with little construction in Bowmanville at the start, Hubble and Moher expanded their reach to other areas of Durham Region. Nowadays, however, Bowmanville is the site of a lot of construction – mid-rise buildings, new homes, industrial and institutional buildings, you name it.

“But we didn’t shrink our delivery footprint or keep it the same,” says Hubble. “It has grown. We hired more staff as we grew: drivers, mechanics and outside sales. We go into the Greater Toronto Area and east or north regularly.”

To keep up with growth in construction rentals, like most rental businesses, Hubble and Moher never wanted to say no to a customer. If an order came in that they couldn’t fill, like any rental business worth its salt, they scrambled to fill it no matter what.

“I remember years ago getting a longterm rental order for a 20kw generator,”

“The industry has changed a lot in my 27 years of being in it. Small tools that we used to rent, most people just buy now. That was a big influencer in moving towards larger equipment.”

– Dale Hubble, The Rental Hub

says Hubble. “We found a used one in Kingston, which is about two hours away, so I drove there, bought it and brought it back to have it on the site the same day it was ordered. There are many stories like that. We didn’t want to disappoint any customer.”

CUSTOMER FOCUS

Indeed, making sure to be responsive and fully address customer needs was the plan that Moher and Hubble had from the start. “We’re customers too and we know the frustrations of not having a call returned or being disappointed by failed promises,” says Hubble. “So good service is something we’ve always tried to remain focused on. We feel it has worked. We have many customers who are still with us from the early days 21 years ago. It’s a great compliment when someone leaves a company and then calls us from their new company wanting to use us for rentals.”

He adds that their employees have all been with them for quite a long time and treat The Rental Hub like it’s their own.

“They are the reason we are able to keep customers happy and we’ll be able to continue to grow,” says Hubble.

Working together as good friends and business partners has gone well too, a compliment to the temperament, maturity and honest nature of these two men. “The road has sometimes been challenging, with downturns in the economy, competition, equipment shortages, price hikes and more, but it’s been fun,” says Hubble. “Overall, we wouldn’t have done anything differently and we’ve enjoyed the journey.”

And at this point, The Rental Hub’s journey is adding a new chapter. Moher is moving on to pursue some other interests and Hubble is taking on the challenge of steering the company solo.

“Pete has obviously been integral to the success of our business and will be missed,” says Hubble. “Not every business partnership works, and I’m very thankful that ours has. I do have plans to grow the company. It’s just a matter of timing. We have customers working in other areas that would use us if we had a location there, so it makes sense to pursue that. CRS

RENTED AND GETTING THE JOB DONE.

SAFE DRIVERS, SAFE LOADS

Protect your workforce and your business

Afew months ago, a trucking company arrived at one of our branches to pick up a few generators. The driver loaded them onto his truck and was ready to leave when someone on our team noticed a serious issue: the entire load was secured with only one strap, an obvious violation of safety standards.

by GINO PORTARO, Cooper Equipment Rentals

We immediately contacted the company’s dispatcher to inform them the driver could not leave until the load was properly secured. What should have been a quick pickup turned into a significant delay. It’s a situation any rental provider can find themselves in – and one that’s entirely preventable.

Trailer safety rarely gets the attention it deserves, until something goes wrong. Yet trailers play a critical role in our day-to-day operations as rental providers. Projects can’t start until equipment arrives. Late equipment deliveries

increase your customers’ downtime and safety violations put your workers at risk, endangering the public and potentially your reputation. From choosing the right-sized trailer to driver training and ongoing safety practices – every step reduces risk. Pre-planning deliveries and conducting thorough equipment inspections are non-negotiables and required by law. But what you do beyond the basics sets you apart from your competitors. The most impactful step is building a culture of accountability, where safety is valued, reinforced and practiced daily.

SAFE TRAILER OPERATION STARTS WITH PRE-PLANNING

Every safe haul begins long before the trailer hits the road. Pre-planning is essential, especially when hauling heavy loads or specialized equipment.

In equipment rental, we know the unexpected will happen. However, with the right processes and planning in place you can be better equipped to handle deliveries and pick-ups safely, conduct thorough inspections, and ensure equipment is delivered on time and intact.

We start by making sure our drivers know what type of equipment they will be hauling, including weight, dimensions and any special considerations. Not all trailers can safely handle all loads. Trailers are designed to meet specific requirements so selecting the right one ensures equipment can be safely and efficiently transported. Always confirm the truck and trailer are properly rated for the load and the right hitch is being used.

Pre-planning improves safety for your drivers and others on the road. Know your route, load and trailer setup in advance. Our number one priority is that each delivery is safe, incident-free, on time, and professional. When drivers operate responsibly, follow road regulations, wear the proper PPE and recheck the load frequently, it results in safer journeys, reduced risk, and confidence for our team and our customers.

PROPER LOADING AND SECUREMENT SAVES LIVES AND YOUR EQUIPMENT

Replacing or repairing equipment is expensive and many incidents can be avoided. Improper loading, insufficient tie-downs, or poor weight distribution

can lead to damage, structural failures and unsafe conditions on the road. For us, a full walk-around inspection is non-negotiable. This means checking for damage, tire condition, working lights and any other critical components required for safe operation.

Load securement is critical, but it’s also a risky part of the job. Our drivers are trained to assess and control potential hazards before loading equipment, but mistakes still happen. A recent incident at one of our branches involved a new driver loading a telehandler forklift. As he backed it onto his truck, it slipped off the side and struck him, resulting in a concussion. People assumed he knew what he was doing. It was a lesson for all of us that accidents can happen quickly and training is essential to help identify potential risks. Assumptions – especially about experience – are one of the biggest

Driver data is crucial to maintain accountability, make informed decisions and identify areas for improvement.

safety risks we face.

A delivery is only complete once equipment has been safely unloaded on the jobsite. Just like drivers assess the situation loading equipment, the same is expected during unloading. This means looking out for any potential hazards that could impact the delivery. We encourage all our workers to use the “Take 10” model: spend 10 seconds checking the environment, equipment and jobsite. Those few minutes can prevent injuries, protect equipment and save lives.

MEASURE AND REINFORCE SAFE DRIVING

Delivering equipment is only half of the job as ensuring your drivers do it safely is equally important. After equipment is secured and inspections are complete, driver data becomes crucial for maintaining accountability, making informed decisions and identifying areas for improvement.

With more than 750 trucks on the road at any given time, we use GPS tracking and driver scorecards to monitor excessive speeding, harsh braking, seatbelt use and other key indicators of unsafe driving. Monthly reports help recognize top-performing drivers and encourage all team members to prioritize safe driving habits.

SAFETY

Any new driver should complete comprehensive training on cargo securement, transportation safety, hours-of-service compliance and safe driving practices. Training should be followed by supervised pre-trip inspections and shadowing of experienced personnel during deliveries. Follow-ups at 30 days, 90 days and one year, including additional evaluations and ride-alongs, have helped us reinforce training. Once training and performance data are in place, incentive and recognition programs can further strengthen your safety culture.

Driver training isn’t one-and-done. Ongoing check-ins and upskilling help drivers stay sharp, understand the unique challenges of hauling equipment and recognize the responsibility that comes with operating company vehicles.

YOUR SAFETY RECORD IS A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

Customers want to know you take safety seriously. They may ask about your safety rating, accident history, trailer-related

incidents and compliance record. Today, many jobsites require all suppliers to have a strong National Safety Code (NSC) rating including those tied to trailer operation and load securement.

If you haven’t already, consider COR certification, the gold standard in construction safety. It provides a rigorous framework for evaluating a company’s safety management system and helps to embed safety principles into everyday operations from inspections and load securement to driver training and situational awareness.

Leadership plays a crucial role. When leaders champion safety, employees follow. Safety processes become non-optional, compliance becomes part of the daily job and your reputation as a safety-first leader helps you stay competitive.

SAFETY STARTS WITH THE DRIVER

Putting a worker behind the wheel of a company vehicle comes with significant responsibility, especially when they’re

hauling heavy loads. Their behaviour and attitude can directly influence performance, safety and public trust.

As a rental company you can’t afford to cut corners. Building and maintaining safe driving habits requires ongoing commitment. It’s a cultural shift that views safety as an investment, not an expense.

Safe trailer operation starts with safe drivers. Ensure your safety processes are consistent across every branch. This might be as simple as uniform pre-planning procedures or as advanced as GPS tracking and driver incentive programs. Whatever the method, consistency is key.

Embed the “see something, say something” mindset into your culture. Without it, you could pose a serious risk to others, both on the jobsite and on the road. Trailer safety may not be the flashiest part of your job, but it impacts your customers, your equipment, your people and your reputation. CRS

Gino Portaro is a Vehicle Fleet Manager with Cooper Equipment Rentals.

by Michelle Nicol, CERP

Customer support

As a new year begins, businesses have an opportunity to reassess how they support their customers.

The rental industry has always been about providing the right products at the right time, but today it is about much more than that. Client expectations have shifted beyond products alone. Customers are looking for consistent experiences, clear communication and trusted partners who can support them from event planning through execution.

As customer expectations continue to evolve, many clients now expect faster responses (thanks, Amazon!), simpler processes and fewer surprises. They want confidence that their event will come together smoothly and without unnecessary stress. This requires rental companies to think beyond inventory and focus on how customers feel throughout the entire ordering experience.

One of the most important areas for focus and improvement is communication. Clients value clear answers and timely updates, and when emails or phone calls go unanswered, confidence can quickly fade. Setting expectations early and following through builds trust. Even small updates can make a meaningful difference that the client will appreciate. Something as simple as quickly confirming an order or providing a delivery update helps reduce uncertainty and reinforces that you’re on their team.

Simplicity is another essential element that may be overlooked when creating a positive customer experience. Many clients plan events once or twice a year, at most, and may not be familiar with event terminology or processes. Clear pricing, easy to understand contracts and straightforward explanations help remove confusion. When customers understand what they are renting and what to expect, they feel more comfortable and confident working with your team. Nobody likes grey areas and fine print tends to mislead and overwhelm clients; streamlining the language can help them feel supported and create that important trusting relationship.

Flexibility is also becoming increasingly important. Events evolve and plans can change quickly. While not every request can be accom-

modated, a willingness to listen and try to help goes a long way. Taking a solution focused approach rather than relying strictly and solely on policies, helps customers feel supported and appreciated. In my experience, when challenges arise, how a company responds often leaves a stronger impression than the issue itself.

Technology continues to shape customer expectations with a need for online catalogs, digital quotes and easy access to information. An easy to navigate website and efficient digital tools can improve both customer satisfaction and internal operations. At the same time, technology should enhance personal service, not replace it. Clients still value knowledgeable staff being a phone call or showroom visit away, who can guide them through decisions and offer expert advice.

The in-person aspect of delivery and setup plays a major role in the overall experience. Being punctual, professional and respectful on site reflects directly on the company’s reputation and if the client will call you for their next event. Event days are often stressful, especially for those not used to planning events. Having a calm, capable and confident on-site rental team can make a lasting positive impression.

Customer experience does not end when the event is over. Post event follow up shows appreciation and helps strengthen relationships. Asking for the client’s feedback (good or bad) provides valuable insight into what is working well and where improvements can be made. Having these conversations also reinforces that their opinions are valuable and you are there to support them for their next event.

As the year moves forward, companies that prioritize customer experience will continue to stand out. Raising the bar does not always require major changes, but often comes down to consistency, communication and genuine care. When customers feel heard, supported and valued, they are more likely to return and recommend your services. CRS

Michelle Nicol, CERP, is an award-winning account executive for Element Event Solutions in Toronto.

The latest in lawn and garden products to help customers clean out overgrown fields and yards.

SPRING CLEANING

Yes, it’s cold outside. And yes, much of this country is covered in a blanket of snow. But soon enough, the snow will melt, the ground will thaw and everyone will be looking to clean up the mess Mother Nature has left behind.

Ensuring you are armed with a diverse fleet that meets their needs is vital. Canadian Rental Service is looking at mulchers, stump grinders and wood chippers, key pieces of equipment required to clean out overgrown fields, backyards and everything in between.

STUMP GRINDERS

BAUMALIGHT S40 SKIDSTEER STUMP GRINDER

8 baumalight.com

The Baumalight S40 stump grinder delivers powerful,

efficient performance for skid steers from 50 to 120 horsepower. Its heavy-duty 24-inch rotor and 12 high-speed teeth make quick work of stubborn stumps, cutting up to 24 inches below ground. With an 85-degree swing arc for excellent reach and a durable bent-axis piston motor for smooth, consistent grinding, the S40 is a great rental option for serious land-clearing productivity.

BILLY GOAT

SG1301H AND SG1301HGT STUMP GRINDER

8 billygoat.com

The SG1301H and SG1301HGT stump grinder can grind from 24 inches above grade to 16

inches below grade and is powered by a Honda engine driving a 15.5-inch, 35-pound cutting wheel with replaceable carbide teeth. Other features of the machine include wide chip guarding, a long cutter head reach, an extended handle for better swing leverage when grinding, and a double-welded cutter head guard as well as reinforced frame.

The machine is well balanced over the axle, making it easy to swing while in operation or transporting to and from the job site.

DIAMOND MOWERS’ MILLER STUMP GRINDER

8 diamondmowers.com

The 26-inch-cut width Miller Stump Grinder from Diamond Mowers is engineered for high-flow skid-steer hosts (29 to 45 GPM) and designed to deliver rental-fleet productivity and versatility. Its radial-piston hydraulic drive ensures high torque and consistent performance, while the heavy-duty one-inch thick grinding wheel and 30 dual-direction carbide teeth maintain throughput and reduce wear. The six-way swing, lift and telescoping wheel positioning means operators can grind any size stump below ground level without repositioning the machine. This helps minimize downtime and maximize job count in a day. For rental operations, Diamond Mowers notes this equates to fewer callbacks, greater utilization and stronger return on investment.

DIAMOND MOWERS’ REFLEX STUMP GRINDER

8 diamondmowers.com

Diamond Mowers’ Reflex Stump Grinder is available in 24-inch or 26-inch cutting widths. It’s built to serve a broad rental fleet and compatible with both standard- and high-flow skid-steers (16 to 45 GPM). The radial-piston hydraulic drive delivers reliable torque, while the one-inch-thick wheel with dual-direction carbide teeth cuts tough stumps with ease. Its cushioned parallelogram mechanism protects the wheel

and carrier from shock loads, making it ideal for mixed-use rental environments where machine abuse and operator variation are common. Less maintenance and broad machine compatibility also make it a smart rental-fleet choice for those who want a versatile carrier.

DUCAR SGR1500-FLEX

STUMP GRINDER

8 ducar.ca

Weighing in at 237 pounds, the SGR1500 can be used for light or demanding jobs. It’s fitted with eight carbine teeth,

and each one is replaceable. It has a shredding height of 22 inches and shredding depth of 13 inches.

At such a small size, the SGR1500 works well for homeowners looking to reach tight locations or areas that are not easily accessible.

RAYCO RG13-11 STUMP CUTTER

8 brandt.ca

The RG13-11’s compact design, heavy duty frame and ease to operate make it a great choice for a rental store to carry.

It’s powered by a 13-horsepower gasoline Honda engine. It has a cutting depth of 13

Bring More to the Jobsite

When the schedule is full, you need machines that show up ready and stay working. The SVL65-2S and SVL110-3 deliver the kind of jobsite performance rental fleets are built on: confident handling, powerful hydraulic capability, and the traction to keep production moving through changing conditions. Inside, operator comfort is paramount to help crews stay sharp shift after shift. Add smart, maintenance-friendly design, and you get compact track loaders engineered for uptime, output, and real-world commercial demands.

inches and a cutting height of 22 inches.

The throttle, choke and pull start are located on the handle bar.

Other features include:

• Adjustable handlebar positions

• Cyclone air cleaner

• Operator presence bar for safety

• Fitted with Rayco Super Teeth, which is a forged, one-piece design with tungsten carbide tips

The machine is available in Canada at Brandt Tractor.

TORO STX-38 AND STX26 STUMP GRINDERS

8toro.com

Toro states its rugged, fully hydraulic STX-38 and STX-26 stump grinders are designed for durability and ease of use

in tough environments. Both models utilize tracks for superior stability and maneuverability, reaching ground speeds over 4 mph to maximize productivity. Both stump grinders deliver consistent, powerful performance and are equipped with the Pro-Series Carbide cutter wheel teeth system. They also feature Intelli-Sweep technology, which automatically adjusts the cutting head speed to prevent the engine from bogging down.

The STX-38 is powered by a 38 HP engine while its Electronic Fuel Injection reduces maintenance. The max cut depth and swing of the STX-38 is 18 inches/50 inches.

The STX-26 has a 26 HP engine and features simple Toro Dingo TX-style controls. The max cut depth and swing is 12 inches/47 inches.

VERMEER SC292 STUMP CUTTER NEED APPROVAL STILL 8 vermeercanada.com

The Vermeer SC292 stump cutter is built for jobsite flexibility and easy maintenance. The SC292’s slim profile is a real advantage. Without its dual wheels installed, the

machine is 35 inches wide, allowing it to pass through standard backyard gates and operate effectively in confined spaces. This accessibility ensures that operators can easily reach stumps in tight locations.

The self-propelled unit is powered by a 26.5 HP EFI Kohler engine. It’s SmartSweep control system not only improves efficiency, but also minimizes wear and tear. The SC292’s design allows for simple maintenance. All drive belts are conveniently located on one side of the machine to allow for quick inspections and access.

The machine can be fitted with either the Yellow Jacket cutter system or the newer Vermeer cutting system (VCS). Similar to the Yellow Jacket, the VCS features two-sided, V-profile carbide teeth that flips to the other edge for extended life. The VCS also provides easier maintenance as it uses a single bolt for all VCS teeth and only two tooth part numbers. Vermeer explains each tooth bolt has ease of access with either a torque wrench or impact wrench, which means no special tools or disassembly are needed for access to these bolts.

CHIPPERS

BAUMALIGHT MS1472

SKIDSTEER BRUSH

MULCHER

8 baumalight.com

With a minimum carrier

weight of 7,500 pounds and an 84-inch wide mulching path, Baumalight’s MS1472 skidsteer brush mulcher has 43 double tipped teeth and a cutting depth of 1.5 inches above grade to 2 inches below grade.

The rotor features both P11000 planer and R9000 ripper teeth. A total of 14 P11000 planer-style teeth are installed in the centre section of the rotor, with seven positioned on each side of the centre. These deliver highly-efficient cutting in the middle where operators typically take down trees and where it’s easier to watch for stones while mulching on the ground. The remaining 24 R9000 ripper teeth handle tougher material and impacts with rocks toward the sides, where stones are harder to spot.

DUCAR B1500E-HD WOOD CHIPPER

8 ducar.ca

Driven by a 15 HP engine, the B1500E-HD’s 5-inch chipping capacity makes it suitable for handling branches, leaves and small trees. It has an electric and recoil starting system. It’s fitted with a two bar with a two-inch ball which allows it be towed to where

it is required. It comes with replaceable, reversible blades.

MORBARK BRUSH CHIPPER BVR10

8 brandt.ca

Available in Canada at Brandt Tractor, the BVR10 brush chipper is suited for utility line clearing, residential tree care, rental yards and municipalities.

The compact yet powerful chipper can be towed behind a half-ton pickup while its modular design makes it easy to maintain.

Morbank states its ZeroClutch removes the anxiety of engaging the chipper drum, damaged drive belts and burned clutch discs. With ZeroClutch, the chipper’s integrated drum speed sensor monitors the drum speed and prevents the clutch from engaging if material becomes stuck between the feed wheel and drum.

The machine has a chip -

ping capacity of 12 inches. Its infeed opening is 30 inches by 60 inches.

Other features include:

• Infeed-mounted control panel

• Reverse pivot assembly gives mechanical advantage for increased down pressure

• Side load anvil for quick adjustment and flipping the anvil

• 360-degree manual swivel discharge with multiple locking positions

VERMEER BC900XL BRUSH CHIPPER

8 vermeercanada.com

Vermeer’s BC900XL brush chipper’s size, ease of use and simple maintenance make the machine ideally suited for rental stores. The chipper can tackle everything from general

yard clean-up to line clearing as its 9-inch by 14-inch feed opening allows it to easily manage a wide variety of material. The machine utilises a 33-inch diameter disc that rotates at 1400 rpm. To ensure longevity and reduce downtime, it features two steel chipper knives and two shear bars, all designed with two usable cutting edges to extend their wear life.

The BC900XL’s SmartFeed control system reduces engine strain by monitoring engine rpm and will automatically stop and reverse the single

MINI SKID STEERS

horizontal feed roller when feeding larger, hardwood material.

This gas-powered, 35 HP Briggs And Stratton engine has a no-spill oil filter, which makes servicing easier.

For safety, it’s fitted with a 154.8-inch long feed table and a bottom feed stop bar that is positioned so that the operator can use their leg to shut down the machine in an emergency.

BILLY GOAT BC 26 SERIES OUTBACK

8 billygoat.com

The BC 26 Series Outback is designed for tackling tough overgrown brush, cleaning up fields, meadows, paths and trails. The 26-inch-wide rigid deck commercial-duty brush cutter provides excellent stability in deep vegetation. As

well, the rigid deck does not articulate, which means no pulling or snagging on hills, holes or uneven ground.

The heavy-duty blade spindle is reinforced on four sides to tackle thick brush up to six feet high, grass and weeds more than eight feet tall, and saplings up to two inches in diameter.

The machine’s transmission and differential are combined into one sealed package with no linkages to snag on brush. CRS

AT YOUR SERVICE

How to handle revenue churn

by Russ Dantu

If you’re a business owner, you know how important it is to have an active pipeline to keep your business healthy.

Every year, you will lose a certain amount of business through what is called attrition or revenue churn.

Depending on your business, it can be as low as five to 10 per cent if you have strong retention or as high as 40 to 70 per cent if you are like a subscription-based business. Regardless of your business, customer service can play a large role in what your revenue churn is.

I strive to keep all my customers but sometimes it isn’t possible.

An easy way to figure out your attrition rate for the last year is to figure out the number of customers you have and how many didn’t buy from you last year. For example, if you had 100 customers and you lost 20 that leaves you with 80 customers and an attrition rate of 20 per cent.

Last year, I lost a few decent contracts. One was part of a national chain and each branch was told they had to use the same supplier. Another replaced my main two employees with new employees who would not even sit down for a cup of coffee with me. I also lost several smaller customers but they were ordering for special events so it was expected that they would not be ordering soon.

Whatever your number, you’ll need to replace that loss. So how do we do that?

For my two larger losses, I thanked them for their previous business and said I would be waiting in the wings if they did need anything I offered. I also said I would check in with them every few months. I don’t give up easy and was thankful that I did check in with them.

The first few check-ins didn’t even receive an acknowledgement, call back or email but on my third for one and fourth for the other, I was pleasantly surprised they both needed my services.

One was because their new supplier wasn’t able to offer something I did.

The second wasn’t happy with the new supplier

they were forced to work with, so they were able to start ordering many of the items I was previously selling them.

Another strategy is constant engagement with existing customers. Pick up the phone, send out a survey, email specials, et cetera. By being top of mind, you will be the first one they reach out to if they need something and they’ll appreciate that you don’t just take their business for granted.

Recapturing old business can be tricky but I have had some success over the years. I lost a large customer several years ago because of a new person coming into the fold. I kept monitoring their “staff listing” on their website and, after about a year and a half, noticed she was no longer there. I immediately reached out to the new contact, told her of my past experience of dealing with them and what I could offer and she agreed to see me. This one wasn’t even in my city but I drove three hours for a 30-minute meeting and it paid off. They’ve been with me ever since and it’s a very lucrative account.

The last strategy is asking your existing customers for referrals. Only pick customers you have developed a strong relationship with and know they are very happy with your services. Warm referrals as opposed to cold leads are so much better.

When you can get an email introduction from your current customer raving about how you treat them, it usually results in a new customer. This is the way I get almost all of my new business now. Some people like to do cold calling but I find warm referrals to be way more effective.

As good as we are with our customer service, attrition will always be a part of our business. Using these four strategies will help ease the pain of those you have lost.

Take care of yourselves…and your business! CRS

Russ Dantu is a 30-year veteran of the rental industry and has been delivering workshops, keynotes and seminars on customer service for 25 years. Visit russdantu.com

by MIKE LACEY

REFINING THE DESIGN

For 40 years, Wolf Products Ltd’s Cory Halischuk has sought out new ways to make a job easier

Perhaps the one thing Cory Halischuk likes more than talking about his inventions is developing a new idea. This knowledge all comes from nearly 40 years of working in construction.

As an end user, he has a great understanding of the job a new piece of equipment is to perform and the challenges it faces.

As the owner of Manitoba-based Wolf Products Ltd., he often lays in bed at night thinking about different ways to accomplish a task or improve upon an existing piece of equipment. That has resulted in the creation of the Wolf discer, commercial planers, self-cleaning buckets, a pushpull drag bar soil planer and steel footing form system.

This all began years ago when he developed a tandem disc that could attach to the front-end of his skid loader.

“It was for weed control for the few properties I had. They were hard to control and instead of buying an old tractor with the cultivator to clean that up, I built this attachment,” he explains.

During its development, he saw the many advantages it would create in the construction and landscape areas.

“Because there was no such attachment on the market, I designed and built it. Then, I spent a whole year with Bobcat to get it Bobcat approved. Not only was this an honour, but it was an incredibly valuable learning experience. This knowledge continues to challenge me every time I design,” he further explains.

About eight years ago, he had that itch to invent again and redesigned the Wolf discer attachment to make it simpler and more affordable.

His philosophy is ‘simple is smart.’ So, he cre -

ates attachments with simple mechanical designs that are durable and deliver high performance. That longevity, he explains, saves the end-user in costly downtime.

He says his attachments are very well suited for rental companies, and he is aiming to connect with them. The company’s focus right now is on the Wolf Commercial Planers. “It’s sort of like a missing link to the road grader,” he says. “These attachments are designed for minimal aggregate displacement. Its three-blade system rips open surface aggregate, levels and lightly compresses it at every pass, unlike a road grader which displaces

the aggregates in a wind row which then needs to be releveled.”

He explains one of the advantages of this attachment is its time efficiency. For example, if a town once required three days to maintain their aggregate roads and back lanes, it now only takes one day. Another advantage is the planers fit most end-users’ loader equipment.

“I am currently designing other models to service golf and walk trails, as well as a larger complex unit to service

rural municipality’s gravel roads. Because designing comes easily to me, I worked on more than one attachment at a time. It’s a process,” he says.

How it works on grading a gravel road is something he is quite familiar with. As he is recalling the details of meeting with a municipality to discuss how the attachment can save time and money, his deep knowledge of road grading is apparent.

“I’m on a gravel road and it measures 27 feet across,” he explains. “So, when you coat that road with gravel to achieve a half inch that is compressed and settled out, it’s going to take approximately 10 trailers of material for a mile. And I was telling them, ‘You know, we’re going to cut your erosions in half because we can design a road planer to maintain the cow path, the traffic lane. A person will stay in that traffic lane if there are no potholes. To maintain the cow path with a road planer, you’re only going to carve and compress the traffic lane,

which is approximately nine feet across rather than 27 feet, and therefore, you’re going to leave the rest of the road in its relaxed state. Maintaining a nine-foot section reduces the amount of material required, but it will also bring about new concepts related to maintaining gravel roads.’”

His designing system begins with an idea, then determining if that idea has legs and, if it does, he will run scenarios in his head to figure out the trouble spots that may pop up.

From that point, it’s a matter of testing and refining the attachment until he is happy with what he has. Yet even then, he is always looking to improve.

Along with the commercial planers and discer, he has also created a self-cleaning bucket, which he says will improve an excavator’s efficiency by 50 per cent. Along with eliminating soil buildup, his design also requires no added hydraulic plumbing and no alterations to a mini-excavator’s boom. This attachment is in its final development stage.

A self-cleaning bucket removes the challenges that a professional operator uses to avoid the plugging of the bucket. The tricks used to counter the challenges are time consuming and cause fatigue.

“When looking at the OEMs’ advancements, the one area they have not changed is the bucket,” he says. “They are investing into the technology of these excavators, but when you look at it, all that technology runs through the bucket. And you know what? The bucket has the final say. If it plugs up, what do you have? You have a plugged bucket and either you clean it or you work at that capacity.”

He doesn’t manufacture the attachments but instead has a third-party handle manufacturing. They have people with third generation welders, businesses, and shortcuts he couldn’t even think of.

“I have a gift for creating with no shortage of new projects. As you can see, sleep is a challenge. It’s a good thing I love what I do.” CRS

LANDSCAPING

SMALL SCALE, BIG IMPACT

Newest in landscaping equipment highlighted at Landscape Ontario Congress

Landscape Ontario Congress 2026 was packed with three days’ worth of products, equipment and expertise. The industry trade show took place on Jan. 6 to 8 at the Toronto Congress Centre and featured more than 400 vendors spread out across eight acres of space.

by COLIN LEGGETT

Toro’s Dingo TX 700 and Ultra Buggy e2500-TS were on display at this year’s show.

Among the displays were numerous pieces of equipment ideal for the rental market.

Toro showcased both its Dingo TX 700 and Ultra Buggy e2500-TS. The Dingo TX 700 features 764 pounds of rated operating capacity and a 24.5 horsepower diesel engine in a smaller footprint.

Tim Roberts, a Toro sales advocate, highlighted the machine’s ease of operation.

“You get a homeowner that comes in that wants to operate the machine, it doesn’t take them long to learn how to do it because it’s so simple,” Roberts said. “The whole purpose behind what Toro is trying to do with our product is make it easy in the rental industry.”

Toro also offers multiple attachments for the Dingo TX 700, which Roberts says includes buckets, augurs, forks and trenchers.

Roberts also detailed Toro’s Ultra Buggy e2500-

TS, which now features a bucket that turns 180 degrees. The Ultra Buggy is powered by Toro’s patented HyperCell battery technology and has the same 2,500 lb carrying capacity as gas models. Its 31.5 inch width means it is able to fit through standard doorways and gates.

“We also now have one that’s a high lift where the actual bucket goes up and will dump into a 30-yard dumpster,” Roberts said, “And a lot of that’s being used for cleanup because it’s got a steel tub, which you can get with this one.”

Canadian Rental Service also visited Kubota‘s display at Landscape Ontario Congress, which included the U17-5 mini-excavator, the SVL652S and SVL110-3 compact track loader and the SCL1000 stand on compact loader.

The U17-5 features tracks that can expand from 99 centimetres to 1,300 centimetres. Its zero-tail

swing design to ensure the tail always stays within the width of the tracks when they are fully expanded.

Ryan Horlings, a Kubota product specialist at Kooy Brothers, said that the U17-5 also features a hydraulic thumb that can be used for grabbing bricks, tree stumps, stones, logs or anything else that needs to be moved.

Horlings highlighted the SVL65-2S and SVL110-3 compact track loaders as being “very big” in the rental market. The models run from 65 to 110 horsepower and have a variety of features, including KubotaNOW telematics.

“Telematics give you the health of your machine right to your your smartphone or your desktop computer or your tablet,” Horlings said. “It’ll tell you your fuel levels, your DPF level, just the heartbeat of the machine, how it’s running or when the next oil change is due.”

The telematics also enable setting up a geofence around a jobsite. “If the machine leaves that area that you set up a fence around, it’ll alert you,” Horlings said. “So, it’s like a theft deterrent. You can disable the electrical system, allowing

a little more theft protection.”

The SVL line of compact track loaders features high flow hydraulics to deliver more horsepower and allow for a wider range of attachments.

“You can put a bucket, you can put forks, you can put hydraulic snow blowers, plows, post hole diggers, hydraulic breakers, grapple buckets. The list is endless when it comes to attachments that you can put on,” Horlings said.

The SCL1000 stand-on compact loader is designed for tight spaces. Its 36 inch width allows it to fit through gates and doorways while still maintaining a 1,000 lb rated operating capacity. Horlings highlighted the ease of use for the SCL1000 which makes it ideal in the rental market.

“If you can push a shopping cart through the grocery store, you can operate this machine,” Horlings said.

Like the SVL line, the SCL1000 is compatible with a number of different attachments including forks, post hole drillers, hydraulic breakers and rototillers.

Bobcat had its new E20 Compact Excavator on display. The machine

launched in late 2025 and has a rated lift capacity of 1,098 pounds. Its zero tailswing design, retractable undercarriage and in-track swing frame allows it to operate in tight jobsites.

The E20’s hydraulic system was redesigned so that operators have a smoother, more responsive control over the machine. It also features a new long blade and extension design.

Also on display at the Bobcat booth were the MT 100 and MT 120 mini track loaders. Their compact design, versatility and simple controls make them well-suited for rental operations.

The machines are not much wider than a wheelbarrow (both measure 36 inches in width) and can handle a variety of tasks, such as tilling, trenching, hauling, material handling and more.

The MT 100 has a lift height of 81 inches and an operating capacity of 1,000 lbs. It’s fitted with a 24.8 HP liquid-cooled diesel engine. Meanwhile, the MT120 has a 1,200 lb. rated operating capacity and lift height of 88.2 inches. The machine is powered by a 24.5 HP liquid-cooled diesel engine. CRS

Plenty to see

at North

America’s largest

construction

show. Here is just some of what is on display. By

Colin Leggett

CONEXPO-CON/ AGG SNEAK PEEK

CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

will see massive displays from companies including Volvo Construction Equipment, Case and Wirtgen Group.

The March 3 to 7 trade show at the Las Vegas Convention Centre will give attendees opportunities to see new excavators, wheel loaders, pavers and more. Rental companies who want to grow their fleets of machines will have plenty to see, as new technologies and machines take centre stage. There will also be keynotes and presentations from industry experts for further insights on new machines and processes.

With so much to see at CONEXPO 2026, it’s good to know what to expect and where to make stops. These are just some of the displays that Canadian Rental Service expects to see at the largest construction trade show in North America.

CASE TO BRING NEW MACHINES AND TECHNOLOGY

TO CONEXPOCON/AGG 2026

CASE will offer a first-hand look at its equipment, technology and attachments

at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026.

The company will feature more than 40 machines including nearly 20 new or upgraded models across 40,000 square feet in West Hall booth #W40701.

Highlights include new D Series 3-ton mini excavators, a new mini excavator and new models to the E Series full-sized excavator lineup.

Visitors can also see the latest addition to CASE’s growing list of electric equipment: the all-new TL100EV electric mini track loader, with ultra-quiet, emissions-free operation and the same performance as its diesel counterpart. It is compatible with more than 40 attachments and features three independent electric motors: two for the ground drive and one for the hydraulics.

The display model at CONEXPO will feature CASE’s factory-available non-marring track option that prevents unwanted track marks on pavements or indoor surfaces.

WIRTGEN GROUP INTRODUCING MARKET PREMIERES AND GLOBAL FIRSTS

John Deere and the Wirtgen Group will feature 24 world and market premieres at their machinery exhibition during CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026.

Attendees will find a customer-oriented experience that includes a presentation of the John Deere Operations Centre on the ground floor of the Innovation Centre at the heart of the shared booth (outdoor area, Silver Lot SV2415).

The construction site-oriented tool serves as a digital hub in which all machine and job data are brought together. The product presentation will round off with a portfolio of digital aftermarket solutions on the top floor.

Cold milling specialist Wirtgen is presenting a world premiere that it says will open an entirely new area of application for its customers. Detailed information will be available at the start of the show.

Vögele will launch the latest generation of Dash 5 pavers for the North American market. World premieres in the 10-foot class at CONEXPO will include the SUPER 2000-5 X tracked paver and the SUPER 2003-5 X wheeled paver with the completely redesigned VR 600 screed with rear-mounted extensions and the VF 600 with front-mounted extensions.

The SUPER 800-5 P from the Mini Class family, the successor to the SUPER 700, is the latest addition to the portfolio of machines for asphalt paving. This small Dash 5 paver comes with new features like the intuitive ErgoBasic 5 operating concept and a completely new hopper wall geometry that Wirtgen says ensures an optimal overview and flexible loading.

Hamm will focus on the automation of compaction processes. Smart Compact

Basic has now been expanded to include the decisive parameter for quality assessment during compaction: the real-time asphalt density.

Hamm will also present a corresponding solution for earthworks, the HC 200i C VA, which enables automated, direct, and continuously variable adjustment of the amplitude on the basis of a new measured value in MN/m².

With the HC 100i G-Tier compactor, Hamm is also showing a new model designed especially for plant hire customers in the North American market.

SKYJACK TO SHOWCASE

NEW SCISSOR

LIFT

AND ARTICULATING BOOMS AT ARA SHOW AND CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

Skyjack is offering a first look at its new electric scissors and articulating booms.

The company will display its SJ5545 E electric drive scissor lift, SJ45 AJE+ articulating boom and SJ60 AJHE+ articulating boom from March 2 to 4 at The ARA Show in Orlando and from March 3 to 7 at CONEXPO in Las Vegas.

The SJ5545 E electric drive scissor lift features the highest working height in Skyjack’s range of slab scissors at 15.55 metres (51 feet) and a load capacity of 349.2 kilograms (770 pounds). Skyjack claims its scissor stack design’s fully welded cross-bracing both increases rigidity and improves operator comfort. This new model is also drivable at full height and offers a two-person wind rating at 6.7m (22’). The all-steel anti-slip platform is the largest working area in its class.

Skyjack’s new hybrid-electric and battery-electric SJ45 AJE+ and SJ60 AJHE+ articulating booms are designed to navigate rough terrain and perform in emission-restricted indoor environments. Skyjack says that the range has common specifications, parts, capacities, reach and

dimension across its electric, hybrid, and diesel options.

Along with its new products, Skyjack will highlight the SJ1056 TH telehandler, SJ3219 E scissor lift, SJ3219 micro scissor lift perimeter lights, turf tires and the ECOtray.

VOLVO CE SHOWCASES NEW EXCAVATOR MODELS AHEAD OF CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

Volvo CE is highlighting new and updated models in its compact and full-size excavator series at this year’s show.

The company announced the launch

of three new-generation models in its compact excavator lineup (the ECR90 short-swing, EC65 crawler and EW65 wheeled), the new ECR255 short-swing crawler excavator, and updated versions of its EWR150 and EWR170 wheeled excavators.

Volvo CE will display the ECR90, EC65, ECR255, and EWR170 at Booth F24029 during the March 3 to 7 show.

The ECR90, EC65 and EW65 replace the previous generation’s ECR88D, EC60E and EW60E respectively. They feature updates that Volvo CE says translate to faster cycle times, increased versatility and maximum uptime for customers.

The wheeled EW65 can travel up to 30 km/h. Easy-to-select work modes allow the operator to tailor its performance for travel, digging or parked work..

Volvo CE’s updated EWR150 and EWR170 wheeled excavators are now available in North America. They feature a refreshed design, higher lifting capacity and reduced front swing radius. CRS

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Goat® 18”

• Easy to operate and comfortable to use with multiple oversized isolation mounts and single lever "Set and Forget" blade depth adjustment.

• Scan the QR code to learn why this unit is great for rental.

25” PLUGR® Aerator

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• Simple, intuitive, hydro-drive controls (PL2501 series) with variable speed self-propelled rear wheel drive

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SNOOK’S LOOK

Affordable building

by Andrew Snook

If there’s any one thing that most major cities across the country have in common, it’s that most are becoming increasingly unaffordable and unattainable for potential homeowners. While the Canadian goverment, provincial and municipal governments are pushing for more affordable homes and lower rents in many cities, there are some major hurdles that need to be overcome –and some of these wounds are self-inflicted.

Let’s tackle a couple of the biggest ones starting with building supply costs.

Since the U.S. government imposed tariffs on steel, aluminum and other metal materials (and reciprocal tariffs by Canada), many builders have cited increasing costs, supply-chain uncertainties and overall cost challenges in their supply lines, according to Statistics Canada’s “Building construction price indexes, third quarter 2025.”

According to Stats Can, year-over-year construction costs for residential buildings in the 15-census metropolitan area (CMA) composite increased by 3.3 per cent in Q3 2025. Nonresidential building construction costs also increased by 4.2 per cent during that period. While increased wages and a shortage of skilled workers also drove up costs, the tariffs have been noted to have a significant impact on the sector.

While I’m aware much larger negotiations are underway in regards to the renewal of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), the federal government should take a hard look at the types of metals and metal products being hit with reciprocal tariffs and the impact on the construction sector.

Another affordability issue stems from development charges. While towns and cities certainly need development charges to assist with providing the required services for their citizens, some cities have made fees so high one could argue they have created major hurdles for the average Canadian to participate in home ownership.

The worst offenders can all be found in southern Ontario and B.C.’s Lower Mainland. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), cities in southern Ontario and the Lower Mainland make up 19 of the top

20 highest development fee charges for single-detached units, and apartment units in 2025. Development charges per single-detached unit (top 5 highest):

1) City of Toronto: $180,600

2) Markham: $180,303

3) Brampton: $154,655

4) Newmarket: $146,019

5) Aurora: $141,880

Development charges per apartment unit (top 5 highest):

1) City of Toronto: $130,200

2) Markham: $121,491

3) Brampton: $100,660

4) Mississauga: $97,676

5) Newmarket: $94,982

These costs are largely transferred over to the end consumer/homebuyer. If major urban areas are serious about helping Canadians become homebuyers and lowering apartment rental fees, these development charges need to be taken into greater consideration.

These high fees are likely partially hindering growth in the residential construction sector in these regions. According to the CMHC’s November 2025 monthly housing starts report, actual housing starts are down 3 per cent year over year in centres with a population over 10,000. Toronto experienced an 11 per cent year-over-year decline in housing starts while Vancouver experienced a one per cent year-overyear decline in housing starts.

Want to guess what city experienced a major boom in housing starts? Montreal. The city experienced a 24 per cent year-over-year increase in actual housing starts with increases in both multi-unit and single-detached starts. What are that city’s development fees, you ask? The City of Montreal’s development fees per detached unit is $30,597; and $8,584 per apartment unit. Coincidence? I doubt it. CRS

Andrew Snook is editor of Canadian Forest Industries, Pulp & Paper Canada and Canadian Biomass.

Direct-fired efficiency with added safety

n Enclosed flame promotes safer work environments and provides option to duct

n 99% direct-fired fuel efficiency boosted by remote thermostat and option to move air only like a fan

n Quiet with less than 70 dB operation

n Dual Fuel (DF) models quickly switch from NG to LP

n All models are maneuverable and can fit through a 36” doorway

THE SMARTEST MINDS DOWN THE LINE

JOHN LITTLE

DRAIN BRAIN FOR: 29 Years LOCATION: McKees Rocks, PA SPECIALTY: Assembly, Packing GO-TO TOOLS: Dedication & Dependability

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