What Is a Dock Leveler?
Your warehouse or dock has a lot of moving parts to it. One essential component of this bustling scene is a dock leveler. This handy piece of equipment bridges the gap between a vehicle and the warehouse floor, allowing industrial trucks and their cargo to be easily transported in a commercial space. Dock levelers are a must-have for most warehouse spaces, and even though the equipment might not be large, there’s still a lot to unpack here. Let’s dive in.
What Is a Loading Dock Leveler?
This height-adjustable platform is a popular way to easily transition between your vehicle and the dock. Since these two heights might not match perfectly, the dock leveler can be raised and lowered to meet the difference. This metal piece of equipment, comprised of several mechanical parts, is a popular way to increase efficiency, convenience and safety when using transportation in a warehouse.
What Is a Dock Leveler Used For?
A dock leveler is primarily used to enable industrial vehicles, such as forklifts, to maneuver in and out of docked trucks. This helps the loading and unloading process to happen safely and smoothly. Additionally, the adjustable feature of most dock levelers allows warehouses to service trucks of all sizes.
Parts of a Dock Leveler
A dock leveler consists of several different components. While they may vary depending on their type — whether they are hydraulic or mechanical — they’re comprised of similar parts. These include a core activation system, a frame and a shim. There are several built-in components for convenience and safety, including a toe guard, bumpers and a lip. The deck assembly is the metal part of the structure that is driven over by industrial vehicles.
Finally, the dock pit is the building’s floor opening that accommodates the dock leveler. Each of these parts works together to ensure a smooth and straightforward transition.
What Are My Dock Leveler Options?
When selecting a dock leveler, you’ve got a couple of different options to choose from. While they all accomplish the same end goal, they have different mechanisms and ways of doing so. The most common and popular options include:
- Hydraulic dock levelers: This type of leveler is stored in the dock pit and is known for providing the most seamless transition between vehicle and dock leveler. Thanks to its smoothness, it helps prevent injuries and minimize damage, leading to optimal safety. Its hydraulic lip and platform positioning makes it a reliable and low maintenance option to consider.
- Manual dock levelers: This version requires someone to manually control the leveler, pulling a chain that moves the deck from its stored position to the platform.
- Vertical storing dock leveler: Because of its upright storage position, this leveler allows the vehicle to dock fully before opening the trailer doors. This feature maximizes door protection, security and environmental control.
- Edge of dock (EOD) leveler: This leveler type is perhaps the simplest. Positioned on the edge of the dock, it works well for vehicles that have minimal height difference and allows warehouses to maximize on space because they don’t need to locate and move plates to the correct dock positions.
Purchase Commercial Dock Equipment From Continental Door Today
If you’re on the lookout for well-designed and reliable dock levelers in the Greater Spokane area, purchase yours from Continental Door today. We can connect you with hydraulic, manual and edge of dock levelers, as well as providing essential commercial dock services and equipment for your next dock project. Reach out to us today for a free estimate!
