A dock leveler (also known as dock plate) forms a ramp to bridge the distance between the dock and truck. It must be able to compensate for the up-and-down movement of the trailer during loading and unloading.
A dock leveler must support extremely heavy loads, service a wide range of truck heights, and compensate for tilted trucks.
How Does a Dock Leveler Work?
A dock leveler has a ramp and a lip. The ramp is hinged at along its rear edge, and the lip is hinged at the front of the ramp. To use a dock leveler, raise the ramp. The lip will swing out. With the lip extended, lower the ramp until the lip rests on the truck.
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Recessed/Pit-Style Dock Leveler
2 Most Common Dock Leveler Types:
The two most common common dock leveler types are: recessed dock levelers and edge-of-dock levelers.
1. Recessed Dock Levelers | Pit-Style Dock Levelers:
Recessed dock leveler also known as pit-style dock levelers, are installed in a pit formed in the loading platform and is generally a minimum of 6 ft. long.
Recessed/Pit-Style Dock Leveler
Recessed/Pit-Style Dock Leveler Installed by Loading Dock, Inc.
2. Edge-of-Dock Leveler
Edge-of-dock levelers are low cost and don't require breaking concrete. They normally mount to the face of the dock and can be placed in a small recessed pit. This is a light duty low cost alternative to the pit-style loading dock levelers. It is typically used in an environment with minimal difference between trailer bed and dock and the unit is typically mounted to the dock face. These are not recommended for high volume dock traffic.
Hydraulic or Mechanical Edge-of-Dock Leveler
Suggested Articles:
→ What is a Dock Leveler? ←
→ Which Dock Bumper Is for Me? ←
→ Do I Need To Replace or Repair My Dock Leveler (Dock Plate)? ←
The well-rounded technicians of Loading Dock, Inc. can provide you with the most recommended dock lever service; may it be dock leveler maintenance, dock leveler repair or replacement.
We got you covered with our servicemen who are well versed in fixing any type and brand of loading dock levelers/dock plates. They have been in the loading dock service industry for 40+ years.
For more information, please give us a call at 973-471-4060 or email us at info@dockndoor.com
Emergency service is available for our existing customers. Please call directly at 973-471-4060.
We service Northern New Jersey (Bergen, Passaic, Union, Essex, Morris, Hudson, Hunterdon, Somerset county/counties), Manhattan, New York City, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx, Westchester and Rockland.
