The Necessity of Dock Equipment
Not every dock, trailer or warehouse has been created equally, therefore some type of dock equipment is required to load and unload goods. There are three main types of dock equipment used for this, Dock Plates, Edge of Dock levelers and In Ground Pit Levelers. Institutional grade warehouses will have In Ground Pit levelers that will handle of any application. These are the most common but also expensive to install if they are not already in place. Depending on the building, the trailer height and your use there may be other options that fit your needs.
Dock Plates/Boards
Used to transferring hand trucks, pallet jacks and light forklifts
Weight capacity typically 5,000 lbs to 10,000 lbs
Made of Steel or Aluminum
Cost ranges from $500 to $2,300
Edge Of Dock Levelers
Fastens to the exterior of the dock
Lip extends out 16”-20”
May make for steep inclines
Weight capacity typically 20,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs
Manual or hydraulic plate lift
Cost ranges from $700 to $6,000
In Ground Pit Levelers
Installed in a recessed “pit” within the warehouse floor, in front of the dock door
Manual (pull chain), pneumatic or hydraulic controls allow the leveler to go up and down
Typically can raise to 12” above the dock surface to 12” below the dock surface to allow a wide range of versatility
Weight Capacity typically 25,000 lbs to 100,000 lbs
Width ranges from 6’-7’ feet
Depth ranges from 6’ to 10’, this provides a gradual incline
Cost ranges from $3,800 to $30,000
This brief overview of the basics in dock equipment shows many options, functions and varying price points. Your individual operation will ultimately determine the appropriate equipment for you.
