creating custom node with cron job + API?

Hello,

I'd like to have a cron job at my drupal server, periodically checking a samba share for new files, and creating a new custom node (CCK) with the file attached, and some custom fields automatically set.

What is the best way of achieving this functionality?

I was thinking of creating a custom script to execute SQL against the database to add nodes and content. Then I realized it might be better to use remote calls to the API to let drupal add the node itself (RPC/SOAP). But I couldn't find much info on which services are available for this.

Is custom coding necessary, or are there plugins or even core functionality to do this?

Thanks for your help!