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Dock levelers are used to eliminate the gap between the dock and the truck bed by adjusting the height difference for smooth, safe loading and unloading operations. The loading dock is deemed the most dangerous section of a warehouse. A lot of accidents and injuries occur each year when a forklift runs off and falls between the dock edge and the truck. That’s why safety should be the top priority when choosing docking equipment.

There are different types of dock levelers designed for various working environments. Dock levelers vary in configuration, capacity, and working range. Choosing one or a combination of Dock levelers that best meets your demands and matches your dock specifications is a very important task.

Edge of Dock Levelers

Edge of Dock levelers are easy to install and operate. With capacities ranging from 20,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs these dock levelers offer a cost-effective solution to match the heights between the dock and the truck. An Edge of Dock leveler is operated with just one push-pull handle that lifts the leveler 5 inches above or below the dock height bridging the gap between the dock edge and the trailer. Initially designed to be used with forklifts these quality levelers feature heavy-duty durability combined with ease of use.

Levelers of this type come in standard widths of 66 or 72 inches with a 15″ lip and custom configurations available upon request. Because of the limited 10″ working range Edge of Dock Levelers are recommended for docks with 48-59 inches heights.

Mechanical Dock Levelers

This is perhaps the most commonly used type of dock leveler. While standard capacity is 27,000lbs, heavy-duty mechanical levelers are capable of lifting up to 35,000 pounds. The 16″ lip should easily accommodate most loading and unloading applications securing easy and smooth transition of cargo to and from the truck. Featured safety tread plate and toe guards ensure security of staff, cargo and equipment preventing accidents and injuries during docking operations.

Hydraulic Dock Levelers

Hydraulic levelers are perfect for high-volume loading docks. With capacities reaching 100,000 pounds these heavy-duty levelers are easily operated with a remote switch. Automated hydraulic technology provides for higher capacities and more effective loading. Due to the numerous features such as auto-return to cross traffic, hydraulic levelers will meet the demands even of the most exacting docking business.

Floating deck prevents deck twists-off during uneven loading operations ensuring superior durability at low-maintenance. Hydraulic levelers come in a variety of configurations with custom designs available upon request.

Shopping Tips

Apart from considering the capacity and size, keep in mind that every dock leveler should be properly installed. If you are not sure how to install it, it’s highly recommended that you consult the specialists. They will also help you decide which type of dock levelers is right for you.