At Thackray Crane Rental, safety is not just a priority—it’s a commitment we uphold in every lift, every project, and every partnership. We were proud to put this commitment into action at the Mid Atlantic Safety Council’s monthly meeting, held this January in Bala Cynwyd, PA. Representing Thackray Crane, our very own Safety Director, Mark W. Thackray, delivered a comprehensive and engaging presentation titled “Talking Crane Safety.”

A Deep Dive into Crane Safety
Mark’s presentation covered a wide range of vital topics related to crane safety. From planning and best practices to techniques and the sometimes-overlooked details that can make or break a lift, Mark brought years of experience straight to the audience. One of the main themes was understanding not just what can go wrong with a crane but, more importantly, how to prevent accidents before they happen.

A standout portion of the presentation involved teaching attendees what to look for during crane operations. The focus wasn’t limited to theory—large sections of the session involved practical examples and live demonstrations that illustrated effective safety measures.

The Power of the Pre-Lift Huddle
Mark took the knowledge-sharing a step further by running a live drill on-site. Attendees witnessed firsthand the execution of a pre-lift huddle, an essential step before any lift operation. This huddle brought attention to how clear communication, teamwork, and preparedness can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and successful job.

A key takeaway from the live demonstration was the importance of understanding the “center of gravity.” For those unfamiliar, the center of gravity is the point where an object’s weight is evenly balanced in all directions. When lifting heavy loads, it’s crucial to ensure the crane hook is positioned directly over this point. Misjudging the center of gravity can lead to instability, tilting, or even catastrophic failure.

By integrating this knowledge, combined with robust planning and a safety-first mindset, operators and crews can significantly reduce risks and lift with confidence every time.

Partnering for Safer Worksites
The Mid Atlantic Construction Safety Council has long been a leader in advancing safe practices within the construction industry. Their monthly meetings serve as a resourceful platform for like-minded safety professionals to exchange knowledge, establish standardized safety approaches, and foster a culture of awareness. The January meeting was no exception, with an attentive and engaged audience eager to strengthen their expertise in crane safety.

Thackray Crane Has You Covered
At Thackray Crane Rental, we’re more than just a crane company. We’re a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to delivering success for your projects. Whether you need a crane rental, a skilled and certified crane operator, or a reliable partner to handle job logistics, including planning, trucking, and hauling, Thackray Crane is your go-to provider.

Our decades of experience and commitment to safety ensure that your projects are completed efficiently and with the highest regard for safety. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help lift your operations to the next level—safely and reliably.

When it comes to tackling challenging infrastructure projects, Thackray Crane Rental sets the standard for expertise and precision. Recently, the Thackray Crane team showcased their capabilities in West Grove, Pennsylvania, executing a critical highway repair job on Route 1 at Pusey Mill Road. The project involved the removal of damaged bridge beams caused by a truck collision, and Thackray orchestrated the entire operation with finesse.

“The Bears” in Action

For this demanding task, Thackray brought in their heavy hitters—two Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 500-ton cranes. These cranes are engineering marvels, capable of delivering the extraordinary lifting power required for massive infrastructure projects.

The cranes were instrumental in the safe and efficient removal of the bridge girders, a process that required exceptional planning and precision. With their advanced technology and Thackray’s skilled operators at the helm, these machines performed flawlessly, ensuring the structural components were handled with care and removed safely.

Comprehensive Service from Start to Finish

This wasn’t just about cranes—it was about delivering a seamless solution. Thackray’s involvement went far beyond the lifting work itself. Their team oversaw every critical aspect of the project, including logistics, planning, and obtaining the required permits. Coordinating such a complex operation demands expertise and attention to detail, and Thackray demonstrated their industry-leading capabilities every step of the way.

Managing the transport of crane attachments and counterweights is no small feat either, given their sheer size and weight. Thackray provided the trucking and transportation of all necessary components, ensuring the equipment was ready and in position to complete the job efficiently. This comprehensive all-in-one approach allowed Thackray to deliver the repair and move forward without delays, minimizing disruptions for the local community and traffic on Route 1.

Expertise Meets Precision

Perhaps the most impressive element of this project was the expertise of Thackray’s operators. Handling cranes of this magnitude is no straightforward task—it requires experience, skill, and a deep understanding of the equipment’s capabilities. Thackray’s certified team delivered on all fronts, ensuring the highest levels of safety and efficiency throughout the project.

By combining their cutting-edge machinery with industry-leading expertise, Thackray delivered an effective and reliable solution. Their proactive collaboration with project stakeholders ensured the work was completed successfully and on time.

Delivering Excellence

From the meticulous planning stages to the final removal of the bridge beams, Thackray Crane epitomized precision, power, and unparalleled service. Their ability to bring together advanced equipment, skilled operators, and logistical expertise is what sets them apart in the crane rental industry.

The successful completion of this job in West Grove, PA, is another testament to Thackray’s reputation as a trusted partner for high-stakes infrastructure projects. When safety, efficiency, and expertise matter most, Thackray Crane delivers.

If you’re planning a project where precision and power are essential, Thackray Crane Rental is ready to partner with you. Contact us to learn more about our full-service crane solutions and how we can help ensure your project’s success!

The holiday season was made even brighter by the 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade, which turned out to be an unforgettable celebration of community, generosity, and festivity.

Thackray Crane was honored to partner with 92.5 XTU for this inspiring event and, as always, the incredible spirit of giving from our community made it a resounding success.

Leading the Way with Holiday Spirit

The parade kicked off in style, led by Mark W. Thackray, our dedicated Safety Director, Tyler DiNunzio, a talented Thackray Crane mechanic (and Mark’s right-hand elf throughout the whole event), and John Mongon from Dispatch. Together, they drove a Thackray Crane Boom Truck decked out in holiday flair, carrying a blow-up Santa Claus, mound of toys and heartfelt holiday wishes. This moment set the perfect tone for the parade—one of unity, hope, and boundless joy.

A Mountain of Generosity

Thanks to the overwhelming support of our community, a literal mountain of toy donations was gathered for the Boys and Girls Club of Camden County. The pile of gifts represents joy and hope for a child. These donations will undoubtedly bring smiles and brighten the holidays for so many local children who need it most.

This act of giving goes beyond the material gifts; it’s a testament to the deep kindness and commitment of everyone involved in creating positive change for our community.

A Festive Atmosphere

The day was not just about giving but also about celebrating the power of community in a festive, uplifting atmosphere. Country music star Corey Kent brought high energy and holiday magic with his live performance, serving as the Grand Marshal of the parade. He added an extra layer of excitement to an already incredible day.

Adding to the fun, 92.5 XTU’s beloved radio personalities—Andie Summers, Jeff Kurkjian, and Razz On The Radio—joined the festivities and judged the best-decorated vehicles. From Big Rig Trucks to Personal and Commercial Vehicles, the creativity and effort on display were truly inspiring. Each vehicle showcased the holiday cheer and the power of individuals coming together, united by the simple desire to make a difference.

Celebrating Community Connections

At its heart, the event was proof of what we can achieve when we come together for a shared purpose. Whether it was families decorating their cars, volunteers sorting toys, or countless people cheering from the sidelines, the parade was a shining example of the strength of community bonds.

The Boys and Girls Club of Camden County, which serves many children and families year-round, was the main benefactor of this incredible outpouring of goodwill. With each toy donated, a little more happiness was added to the holidays for children who deserve to know the joy and magic of the season.

Thank You for Making It Possible!

From everyone at Thackray Crane, thank you to all who participated, donated, or simply attended the event to share in the holiday spirit. Whether you were part of the leadership that made it all happen, like Mark W. Thackray and John Mongon, or showed up with toys and cheer, your efforts mattered. Together, we proved once again the immense power of generosity and a shared commitment to lifting up our neighbors.

Here’s to the joy created, the lives impacted, and the community strengthened. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Toy Truck Parade—because when we come together, we can make the season a little brighter for everyone.

Cheers to a successful 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade!

The holiday season is here, and what better way to celebrate than by giving back to those who need it most? Thackray Crane is proud to announce our partnership with 92.5 XTU for the 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade!

Together, we’re building a mountain of toys for children and supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Camden County. Join us for a day full of community, kindness, and the spirit of giving.

Save the Date

This incredible event takes place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at Cooper River Park, located at 5300 North Park Drive in Pennsauken, New Jersey. This isn’t just a parade—it’s a chance for our entire community to come together and make a difference in the lives of local children.

What to Expect

Decorate your vehicle, load it up with new, unwrapped toys, and head to Cooper River Park to join the fun. The parade will travel through Collingswood, NJ, on its way to the Scottish Rite Auditorium, where toy donations will be collected around 10:45 am.

There’s something magical about watching a pile of gifts grow bigger and bigger, knowing each one will bring joy to a child this holiday season. Your generous donations will be delivered to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Camden County, helping make countless kids’ holidays a little brighter.

Special Performances

This year’s parade features an exciting performance by country music star Corey Kent, who will also serve as the Grand Marshal! Corey’s high-energy set will add an extra dose of fun to the event, so don’t miss it.

But that’s not all—92.5 XTU radio personalities Andie Summers, Jeff Kurkjian, and Razz On The Radio will be joining in the festivities, judging the best-decorated vehicles across categories like Big Rig Trucks, Emergency Trucks, Personal Vehicles, and Commercial Trucks. The creativity and holiday cheer on display are sure to make this event even more special!

Why It Matters

At Thackray Crane, we’re deeply committed to supporting our community. Partnering with 92.5 XTU for this event allows us to give back in a way that directly impacts the lives of children and families in need. Giving is about more than presents—it’s about creating smiles, spreading joy, and lifting each other up.

Every toy you donate represents a piece of hope and happiness for a child. Together, our community can make a big difference and ensure the Boys & Girls Clubs of Camden County can bring smiles to as many kids as possible.

Join Us!

We invite you to be part of this truly heartwarming event. Whether you’re decorating a vehicle, donating toys, or just coming along to enjoy the parade, your participation means the world.

Grab your family, rally your friends, and show your holiday spirit on December 14. Together, we can help make this holiday season unforgettable for children in our community.

A Message from All of Us

From all of us at Thackray Crane, thank you for your generosity and kindness. We’re excited to work with 92.5 XTU again and can’t wait to celebrate this amazing day with you. See you at the 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade—together, we’ll help lift our community, one toy at a time.

Thackray Crane has long been a pillar of support for the Fallen Hero Wreath Program, a touching initiative dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. This year, the program celebrated its 10th anniversary, a milestone marked by the heartfelt acceptance of an award by Eddie Cullen, representing Thackray Crane, for their unwavering commitment.

The Fallen Hero Wreath Program, inspired by the family of Philadelphia Police Officer John Pawlowski, who was tragically killed in the line of duty in 2009, began as a small, heartfelt tribute. The program has since blossomed into a national movement, laying wreaths at the gravesites of fallen officers across the United States during the winter holiday season. From its humble beginnings—starting with just 18 gravesites—the program now boasts chapters in multiple states, ensuring that the legacy of heroes like Officer Pawlowski continues to inspire and honor.

Thackray Crane’s involvement goes beyond mere participation. Over the years, the company has been instrumental in supporting the program, whether by hanging American flags or being present at police events and funerals when called upon. Their dedication is a testament to their respect and gratitude towards those who have served and protected their communities.

This year, the Fallen Hero Wreath Program introduced an annual gala, an event orchestrated by Michelle Pawlowski and Shannon Sperduto. The gala was a heartfelt gathering aimed at expressing appreciation to the program’s supporters, with Thackray Crane being prominently acknowledged. The event was not only a celebration of the program’s achievements but also a chance to strengthen the community that continues to uphold the memory of fallen officers.

Eddie Cullen stood proudly at this gala, accepting the award on behalf of Thackray Crane, reflecting the company’s deep-rooted values and ongoing dedication to the cause. It was a moment that underscored the spirit of collaboration and remembrance that lies at the heart of the Fallen Hero Wreath Program.

As the program continues to grow, spreading its message of honor and remembrance, supporters like Thackray Crane are essential to its success. Their commitment ensures that the memory of fallen law enforcement officers is preserved, their sacrifices never forgotten, and their legacy an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.

Hey everyone, Mark here!

As we gear up for the 4th of July, it’s the perfect time to gather with family and friends to celebrate our nation’s independence. While you’re enjoying the festivities, it’s crucial to keep safety top of mind, especially when kids are involved. Here are some quick tips to ensure everyone has a fun and safe holiday:

Grilling Safety

• Keep a Safe Zone: Maintain a three-foot safe zone around the grill to keep kids and pets away.
• Never Leave Unattended: Always stay by the grill while cooking. Have everything you need close by to avoid leaving it unattended.
• Be Ready for Emergencies: Have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water ready, just in case.

Fireworks Safety

• Leave It to the Pros: Attend public fireworks displays rather than lighting your own.
• Pick a Safe Area: If you do set off fireworks on your own, stay away from buildings, wooded areas, or any flammable materials.
• Supervision is Key: If you use sparklers, ensure kids are supervised and hold them at arm’s length.
• Safe Disposal: Soak used fireworks in water before disposing of them in a metal trash can.

Swimming Safety

• Designate a Watcher: Have a responsible adult supervise kids in the water at all times.
• Learn to Swim: Ensure everyone knows how to swim and use life jackets for those who don’t.
• Clear Rules: Set clear rules like no running around the pool and no diving in shallow areas.

Yard Games Safety

• Check the Area: Inspect the yard for hazards like holes, rocks, and sharp objects before starting any games.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep water handy and encourage frequent breaks to avoid dehydration.
• Age-Appropriate Games: Choose games suitable for the ages of the those playing to prevent injuries.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable 4th of July celebration. Stay safe, have fun, and happy Independence Day!

Until next time,

Mark W. Thackray
Operations Safety Director
Thackray Crane Rental, Inc.

Discover more about the Thackray difference today at ThackrayCrane.com.

For your construction project needs, call us at 1-800-34-CRANE or email [email protected].

In a powerful step towards shaping the future of women in construction, Thackray Crane is proud to host the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MyWIC) Camp at the Fraternal Order of Police Hall on Caroline Road, right here in Philadelphia. This unique and inspiring camp, designed for girls aged 12 to 17 from the Philadelphia region, is entirely free and aims to open doors to a traditionally male-dominated field. The MyWIC Camp is the brainchild of the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and the NAWIC Philadelphia Chapter, both dedicated to promoting and supporting women in the construction industry.

For more details on the fantastic work NAWIC Philadelphia is doing, visit their websites at NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and MyWIC.

Thackray Crane is proud to announce its role in the relocation of a significant piece of history—the iconic Papal Cross—from its longstanding location in Wynnewood to its new home in Malvern, Pennsylvania.

The Papal Cross, a large and revered symbol, originally stood on the grounds of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary at the bustling intersection of City and Lancaster Avenues since 1979. This monumental structure holds a deep historical and spiritual significance, having been created as the backdrop for Pope John Paul II’s mass during his visit to Philadelphia in 1979. This event was monumental, with the cross overlooking the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at Logan Square and the mass being attended by over a million faithful.

For many residents, the cross has been a steadfast symbol, a part of their landscape for decades. Its presence has been intertwined with the memories and spiritual lives of countless individuals. Now, as the cross moves to its new location in Malvern, Thackray Crane is honored to be entrusted with this important task.

Relocating such a significant and delicate structure requires not only technical expertise but also a deep respect for its historical and spiritual importance. Thackray Crane is dedicated to ensuring the safe and respectful transportation of the cross, recognizing the trust placed in them by the community and the church.

This relocation is not just a physical move but a continuation of the cross’s journey and its role in the lives of the faithful. Thackray Crane is blessed to contribute to this legacy, ensuring that the cross continues to inspire and be a beacon of faith in its new home.

As we undertake this important task, we are reminded of the cross’s powerful history and the millions it has touched since 1979. Thackray Crane is committed to honoring that history and looks forward to seeing the cross stand proudly in Malvern, continuing to be a symbol of faith, hope, and continuity for generations to come.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of this incredible journey.

Click here to see the full FOX29 News story. 

Mentoring and its connection to construction is something that is not often spoken about out in the field where there is typically a group of experienced journeymen and a foreman in charge of the crew.  However, on occasion, you may have an apprentice or two on the job site who are at the beginning journey of their career.  The foreman is usually a qualified and competent person along with fellow competent journeymen. That being said, a qualified person is a professional with the training credentials, diversified experience, and knowledge in his or her craft and authority to address any safety-related issues. This skill set is often acquired over time through work experience.

In construction conversations, the term mentorship is not used often but it really should be recognized as a meaningful tool in the industry. With so much experience and a strong knowledge base, mentors can serve as a powerful resource to mentees in the field who can benefit from the guidance.  Simply put, a mentorship consists of someone with a genuine interest in a new field or in career advancement spending time with a person (or persons) who has more experience and wisdom or knowledge to share and is willing to share what they know.  Research indicates that the mentor and mentee relationship is actually mutually beneficial for both. As the construction industry continues to develop a culture of ongoing mentorship, reverse mentoring (more experienced individuals learning from those with less experience) will occur more often, too. In addition, the mentors themselves also benefit from supervising peers and younger employees. It is one of the best opportunities for mentors to develop leadership skills and improve communication skills. In addition, mentorship can also help reinforce their own knowledge and work techniques.

Whether formally recognized or not, peer mentoring occurs often in construction and the trades on many job sites where workers with mixed experiences team together to get the job done.

My suggestion on how to be a helpful peer mentor to others in the field: it all starts with leadership from the top. Try to team up with an eager apprentice who wants to learn more and who can benefit from being your mentee. Always teach safety first and what to look for to avoid potentially dangerous hazards. You are guiding your mentee in the right direction to ensure it is a safe workplace for all. Follow up on a weekly basis, especially during the first several weeks. Think about people who have helped you excel in your career journey, and try to offer the same guidance to newer people in the field.

As a mentee, it’s important to choose a mentor who has the willingness and desire to mentor. Be open-minded and listen and ask many questions. Asking questions will allow you to learn all the nuances of the job. Be respectful and appreciative of the mentor taking the time to explain.

To conclude, one of the greatest assets of a company is its strong workforce. If employees can work together and learn from one another, it will be beneficial for all.

Regards,

Mark W. Thackray
Operations Safety Director
Thackray Crane Rental, Inc.

Discover more about the Thackray difference today at ThackrayCrane.com.

For your construction project needs, call us at 1-800-34-CRANE or email [email protected].

At Thackray Crane, we’re often thought of as the go-to crane and equipment rental company in the tri-state area. But we’re more than just heavy equipment rentals. Thackray Crane is also the Philadelphia area’s most dependable 24/7 trucking and transport company. We service all needs from small jobs to oversized hauls requiring the closest attention to logistics, permitting, and routing through both tight city terrain and rural and suburban areas. Thackray’s trucking and transport services are available to our customers 24/7, 365 days a year, allowing us to meet any time-of-day requirement.

We have one of the area’s largest truck fleets for hauling including stake bodies, high flats, lowboys, step decks, double drops, single drops, and box trucks. We have trucks and trailers that provide different services to help you complete any job of any complexity.

Our drivers are top-notch and the most experienced in the business. We only use the best, most highly qualified drivers available who are fully trained, licensed, and certified. Our dependable and reliable drivers will ensure that your delivery is handled with the utmost care.

When it comes to the loading and unloading of your haul, our team takes care of everything. Our drivers will safely load it on, fully secure it, weatherproof it, and deliver it safely and on time. At the time of unloading, we work with you to determine what’s needed at the site. Whether it’s a simple delivery to a loading dock bay or a job site that needs a crane lift or helicopter lift out, we take care of it all.

In addition, Thackray can coordinate all of the routing and permitting for your heavy haul. Thackray handles all the logistics to make your project delivery as smooth and headache-free as possible.

Because we’ve been in the business for such a long time, and we are extremely familiar with Philadelphia and the surrounding areas, and this allows for efficient and timely delivery. You can depend on Thackray who’s been serving the area for 70+ years to handle any hauling job out there at the industry’s most attractive price points.

Give Thackray a call today at 844-99-CRANE to book your next heavy hauling or transport job and experience the Thackray difference. You can also learn more about our trucking and transport services here or email us direct at [email protected].