In a groundbreaking move, online crane rental platform Mycrane and AI-enabled start-up Equip9 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Excon, South Asia’s largest construction equipment event in Bengaluru, India. The collaboration aims to propel technical and commercial projects, with a strong focus on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for recommendation and selection models in the crane rental and heavy equipment sector.

Mycrane, known for developing the world's first online crane rental platform in 2021, revolutionised the industry by introducing a uniform quotation system, streamlining the process of hiring cranes. Equip9, based in Pune, India, has gained recognition with its comprehensive app catering to over 30,000 registered users, spanning industry professionals such as operators, mechanics, rental equipment and owners, resellers, virtual dealerships, suppliers, financiers, and e-learning entities.

The collaboration between the firms will explore the application of AI to enhance recommendation and selection models, with a specific focus on identifying the most suitable lifting equipment and rental providers. This initiative aligns with the shared vision of both companies to drive digitalisation in the construction sector, improving efficiency, sustainability, and reducing waste.

Under the terms of the MOU, Mycrane will play a pivotal role in supporting Equip9's expansion beyond India, particularly in the Middle East. In return, Equip9 will assist Mycrane in strengthening its presence in the Indian market. Mycrane recently announced its wholly-owned operations in India in September 2023, marking a significant step in its strategic growth plan.

Andrei Geikalo, CEO and founder, Mycrane emphasised the shared commitment to advancing the construction sector through digitalisation, stating, "With this agreement, we are establishing a formal basis of collaboration to better assist our customers, providing them with the best digital tools to help them work more efficiently while increasing sustainability and reducing waste at the same time."

Gaurav Bhushan, founder, Equip9, highlighted the potential for innovation and sustainable growth through collaboration among start-ups. He stated, "A faster search with the Equip9 app and the dedicated crane rental platform of Mycrane will make the construction and heavy equipment business easy."

The partnership between Mycrane and Equip9 reflects a strategic synergy aimed at driving innovation, efficiency, and accessibility within the crane rental and heavy equipment industry. The combined expertise of the two companies is set to reshape the landscape of digital solutions in the construction sector.