INTRODUCTION:

Ports play a critical role in the development of many countries. They represent a country’s national heritage, culture, and local commercial attitudes. Simply put, ports are the gate ways for trade. Unfortunately, despite the rapid globalization and modernization, most ports are not as efficient as they should be and are becoming barriers to international trade.

If you are a keen follower of emerging trends, you will note that most ports are plagued with problems like clearance delays, inadequate investments, captivity issues, increased freight rates, lack of effective strategies, and inappropriate international mandates.

What is causing all these challenges? Here are factors affecting ports operations and what your country can do for them.

Many people know Huntington, WV, primarily for its long history as a hub on the C&O Railroad. In reality, however, land transit isn't the city's sole claim to fame.

The Port of Huntington Tri-State holds the unique distinction of being the largest inland shipping port in the U.S.. Today, its jurisdiction includes almost 200 miles of rivers in Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia, making it a critical stopping point for thousands of people, countless commercial enterprises and numerous government entities. Here's what you need to understand about this vital shipping terminus.

Exports, Jobs, & Economic Growth

Ports use barge loading and unloading equipment on a daily basis. Transferring cargo from ship to shore and vice versa represents one of the fundamental purposes of inland ports and seaports. Unfortunately, some ports continue to use outdated and inefficient equipment that hinders productivity, increases operational costs, and eats into the bottom line.

Since ports are so vital to the economy, it is imperative that they operate as efficiently as possible to keep trade moving steadily and without costly delays.

Ports use barge loading and unloading equipment on a daily basis. Transferring cargo from ship to shore and vice versa represents one of the fundamental purposes of inland ports and seaports. Unfortunately, some ports continue to use outdated and inefficient equipment that hinders productivity, increases operational costs, and eats into the bottom line. 

In an increasingly competitive trading market, your port can stand out for its operational efficiencies – or its lack thereof. We’ve compiled a list of barge loading and barge unloading equipment features designed to boost productivity, improve safety, and enhance the user experience. Take barge materials handling to the next level at your port with these equipment components:

1. Modular designs
2. Balancer equilibrium
3. Central measuring points
4. Backup cameras
5. Large, continuous safety glass windows
6. GreenHybrid technology
7. Circular galleries and railings
8. Comfort seats
9. Powerful lighting
10. A trainer seat

As a port manager, you oversee many disparate business activities every day. In a high-risk environment such as a port, worker safety programs play an important role in daily operations. Those who work around heavy equipment face an increased risk of accident and injury. On-the-job injuries can lead to regulatory investigations, workers’ compensation claims, and the temporary or permanent loss of a valued worker.

The next time you review safety guidelines, compare your current equipment safety checklists with ours. We compiled our list of equipment-specific safety tips to maximize operational safety without sacrificing productivity or profitability.