CTA elevated train derailment, 8/5/15

Here's a message from Eric Haak about the CTA train derailment that happened on August 5th:

The call came in from the CTA, who provided an approximate location of 61st and Calumet. However, the actual incident took place just a short distance away, directly over 63rd Street. It was a minor derailment with no injuries reported. Passengers were safely guided about 100 feet to a stairway that led from the tracks down to the ground level. A fire engine, F634, was dispatched from Midway by Engine 127 but ultimately wasn’t needed for the situation.

30-year old fire truck at work in Chicago

Eric Haak photo

30-year old fire truck at work in Chicago

Eric Haak photo

firefighter carries young girl to safety

Eric Haak photo

Chicago fire trucks at train derailment

Eric Haak photo

firemen in tower ladder basket

Eric Haak photo

fire department stairway truck

Eric Haak photo

Eric shared several photos capturing the scene, including a 30-year-old fire truck in action, firefighters helping a child to safety, and a ladder truck responding to the call. These images give a real sense of how quickly emergency services arrived and handled the situation. It’s clear that even though it was a minor incident, the response was professional and well-coordinated.

Used Forklift & Port Machinery

Investing in used forklift and port machinery is a strategic decision for businesses looking to enhance material handling efficiency while minimizing costs. These pre-owned machines provide reliable performance in warehouses, logistics centers, ports, and industrial sites, ensuring smooth operations for lifting, transporting, and loading heavy goods. With the increasing global demand for efficient cargo handling solutions, purchasing used forklifts and port equipment allows companies to scale operations without the high cost of new machinery.
 
Advantages of Buying Used Forklifts and Port Machinery
1. Significant Cost Savings
Purchasing pre-owned forklifts and port equipment is more affordable than investing in brand-new models.
 
The lower upfront cost allows businesses to allocate budgets toward fleet expansion, maintenance, and other operational needs.
 
2. Reliable Performance and Durability
Industrial forklifts and port machinery are designed for heavy-duty lifting and long-term use, meaning used equipment often retains excellent functionality.
 
With proper maintenance and servicing, second-hand machines can provide years of efficient operation.
 
3. Immediate Availability
Unlike new machinery, which may require long production and shipping lead times, used forklifts and port equipment are readily available.
 
Businesses can quickly acquire and deploy the necessary equipment, minimizing downtime.
 
4. Lower Depreciation Costs
New machines lose value rapidly in their first few years of use.
 
Buying used equipment helps businesses avoid the steepest depreciation curve, making it a financially sound investment.
 
5. Versatile Applications Across Industries
Forklifts and port machinery are essential across multiple industries, including logistics, warehousing, shipping, construction, and manufacturing.
 
Used equipment provides a cost-effective way to meet operational demands without sacrificing efficiency.
 
Types of Used Forklifts & Port Machinery
1. Used Forklifts
Forklifts are indispensable for material handling in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and logistics centers. Choosing the right type depends on load capacity, work environment, and terrain conditions.
 
Internal Combustion Forklifts – Suitable for outdoor operations and heavy lifting, powered by diesel, gasoline, or LPG.
 
Electric Forklifts – Emission-free and ideal for indoor warehouses and distribution centers.
 
Reach Trucks & Order Pickers – Designed for high-rack storage and warehouse operations requiring precise maneuverability.
 
Pallet Jacks & Stackers – Used for efficient warehouse logistics and short-distance load handling.
 
2. Used Port Machinery
Port operations require powerful equipment to manage heavy cargo, containers, and bulk materials efficiently.
 
Container Handlers – Designed for lifting and stacking shipping containers in ports and logistics yards.
 
Reach Stackers – Provide high stacking and quick container movement, optimizing space usage at shipping terminals.
 
Straddle Carriers – Move and stack large containers in ports with high efficiency.
 
Terminal Tractors (Yard Trucks) – Essential for transporting containers and cargo within shipping yards.
 
Cranes and Hoists – Used in dockside lifting to load and unload vessels.
 
Key Considerations When Purchasing Used Forklift & Port Machinery
1. Equipment Condition & Maintenance History
A well-maintained used forklift or port machine should come with a service record detailing past repairs and part replacements.
 
Machines with regular servicing and low wear and tear offer the best return on investment.
 
2. Load Capacity & Operational Requirements
Selecting equipment with the right load-bearing capacity ensures safe and efficient material handling.
 
For warehouse operations, compact and maneuverable forklifts are ideal, while heavy-duty port equipment should be capable of lifting large containers.
 
3. Work Environment Compatibility
Indoor use: Electric forklifts are preferred due to zero emissions and quiet operation.
 
Outdoor use: Diesel or LPG forklifts and heavy-duty port machinery are designed to withstand harsh weather and rough terrain.
 
4. Availability of Spare Parts & Technical Support
Ensuring access to spare parts, repair services, and operator training extends the lifespan of used machinery.
 
Some older models may have limited replacement parts availability, so it’s essential to verify support options before purchasing.
 
5. Safety Features & Compliance with Regulations
Used forklifts and port machinery should meet local and international safety standards to ensure workplace security.
 
Features like stability control, automatic braking, and load monitoring systems enhance operational safety.
 
Industries Benefiting from Used Forklift & Port Machinery
1. Warehousing & Logistics
Forklifts and stackers are used for inventory management, order fulfillment, and pallet movement.
 
Reach trucks improve warehouse efficiency by optimizing vertical storage.
 
2. Shipping & Ports
Container handlers, reach stackers, and straddle carriers ensure smooth cargo movement in ports.
 
Terminal tractors and cranes support high-volume shipping operations.
 
3. Construction & Infrastructure
Forklifts transport building materials like steel beams, bricks, and cement bags.
 
Heavy-duty port machinery assists in moving construction equipment and prefabricated structures.
 
4. Manufacturing & Heavy Industry
Factories rely on industrial forklifts for transporting raw materials and finished products.
 
Port machinery facilitates the movement of industrial cargo and machinery components.
 
5. Agriculture & Timber Industry
Forklifts handle large farm equipment, feed, and harvested crops.
 
Timber yards use forklifts and hoisting machinery for loading logs and wood materials.
 
Maximizing Operational Efficiency with Used Forklift & Port Machinery
Choosing used forklifts and port machinery is a smart business strategy for companies seeking affordable, reliable, and high-performance lifting solutions. By selecting the right equipment based on operational needs, lifting capacity, and work environment, businesses can significantly enhance efficiency while maintaining a cost-effective material handling strategy.
 
With proper maintenance and regular servicing, pre-owned forklifts and port machines continue to deliver exceptional performance, ensuring long-term value and operational success.

used forklifts, second-hand port machinery, forklift trucks for sale, pre-owned lifting equipment

XCMG Global Circularity Business Center , https://www.usedmachinemkt.com