A method for issuing and returning an item for loan, particularly a manually movable transport cart. A blocking element allows removal and use of the item by way of a release and, after a return, once more prevents the removal. A mobile communication device identifies itself to the blocking element wirelessly, the mobile communication device is associated with the item for loan when the item is released, and the association is cancelled when the item is returned. An issuing and return system has the blocking element attached to the item for loan, in particular is integrated in the item. The blocking element has a communication module for wireless communication with the mobile communication device of a customer. The mobile communication device has an identification feature, particularly a feature that personalizes the customer and which enables the association between the mobile communication device and the item for loan.

A method for operating an electronically controlled return system for loaned or borrowed objects, in particular for transport carriages which can be moved by hand. The borrowed object is rigidly connected to a communication module which receives a wirelessly transmitted first signal A of a transmission device at a collection point. The communication module evaluates a position and/or location of the borrowed object and uses the first signal A in order to determine the position and/or location of the borrowed object relative to the transmission device. There is also described an electronically controlled return system, in particular for operating the method.

A method for issuing and returning an item for loan, particularly a manually movable transport cart. A blocking element allows removal and use of the item by way of a release and, after a return, once more prevents the removal. A mobile communication device identifies itself to the blocking element wirelessly, the mobile communication device is associated with the item for loan when the item is released, and the association is cancelled when the item is returned. An issuing and return system has the blocking element attached to the item for loan, in particular is integrated in the item. The blocking element has a communication module for wireless communication with the mobile communication device of a customer. The mobile communication device has an identification feature, particularly a feature that personalizes the customer and which enables the association between the mobile communication device and the item for loan.

In an embodiment a locking device for a first transport carriage includes a gripping arm configured to lock a key of a second transport carriage, a slide, an electric motor and/or an actuator configured to drive an eccentric disc for initiating a release movement of the slide, a receiver configured to receive a Bluetooth, Near Field Communication or WLAN signal from a transmitter, wherein the receiver is configured to control the motor or the actuator via an electrical or electromagnetic signal, wherein the slide is configured to release the key based on the initiated release movement when the electric motor and/or the actuator receives the electrical or electromagnetic signal.