Loading ramps – irreplaceable help in unloading goods
Efficient loading and unloading of goods is the basis for the efficient operation of every warehouse or logistics center. One of the challenges of moving goods is ensuring that they move smoothly from the truck bed to the warehouse and back. Loading ramps can help with this task. Find out what this solution is and how it can be used.
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What are loading ramps?
The mechanism of loading ramps is very well known in many industries. This is the term for a special platform that is set at the appropriate angle to smoothly connect two levels of height - for example, the floor of a warehouse and the semi-trailer of a delivery vehicle. This type of reloading platforms is recommended primarily for high frequency reloading.
A special type of this structure is a loading ramp used in a warehouse - it is most often made of concrete and placed along the warehouse, near the unloading docks. However There are often situations in which standard loading ramps do not fully cope with ensuring perfect unloading smoothness. Then additional loading ramps are used – most often metal – operated by hydraulic actuators. Their task is to level unevenness and ensure stable movement of material handling vehicles used in the warehouse space.
How can a ramp be used in a warehouse?
The loading ramp will work not only inside the warehouse itself, but also in the unloading zone where delivery vehicles are reloaded. It can also be used outdoors - provided that the appropriate type of supporting structure is used. In each case, it will ensure safe passage for forklifts, telehandlers and other materials handling vehicles.
Inside the warehouse, loading ramps can be placed in places where it is not possible to use a spring bridge - it will create a stable connection, effective even with high intensity of loading work.
Otherwise, if the company has a mobile ramp, unloading outside the warehouse will also be possible – for example, at the unloading yard or in front of the entrance to the factory hall. The use of such a solution may be necessary in many situations. This is when a mobile ramp works best - it can be easily moved to the destination, stabilized and adjusted to create a smooth ramp to the platform of a truck semi-trailer or a train freight wagon.
Mobile loading ramp – reliable in all conditions
The second solution described above, a professional mobile loading ramp, is distinguished by the greatest functionality of all structures of this type. The fact that it can be moved to any terrain is its key advantage.
But that's not all. Mobile ramp application:
- significantly shortens reloading time - the forklift can move freely between levels, without the need for the unloading team to perform additional tasks,
- allows you to reduce the number of people involved in the unloading process - if the goods are adapted to be picked up by the forks of the forklift, the operator can even do all the work himself,
- allows you to reduce the costs of logistics activities related to loading and unloading - both due to the reduction in the duration of procedures and the number of people involved,
- gives great flexibility of operation - the ramp can be attached anywhere and even more unusual tasks can be carried out.
How is a mobile loading ramp constructed?
The mobile access ramp is a solution with a simple but very solid structure, available in various dimensions. This type of devices are made of high-quality steel profiles that are protected against corrosion.
Mobile ramp:
- has an anti-slip running part - it is gridded, so there is no risk of the forklift slipping when working during rain or in the winter months,
- is attached to the loaded vehicle using stable chains, which guarantees the stability of the entire structure,
- is equipped with a manual hydraulic pump that allows precise setting of the device's height and leveling.
How high are the loading ramps?
The height of the mobile ramp depends on the specific model. For example, the mobile ramp available from GIZO provides adjustment of this parameter in the range of 90-120 cm. This height is optimal for the vast majority of trucks and other delivery vehicles.
What other parameters of the mobile ramp are important?
Load capacity is as important as the height of the loading ramp. Most models can handle loads of up to several tons, which allows you to carry out any reloading tasks.
Additionally, this structure can be enriched with dedicated equipment - e.g. safety barriers, bumpers, roofing or additional supports.
Loading ramps – decide to lease them
For structures such as a mobile loading ramp, the purchase price can be quite high. So you may wonder whether investing in the device is justified for your business profile. However, there is an alternative solution: leaseing a mobile loading ramp.
By choosing them, you do not have to make a high initial investment and you gain a package of additional service services. Want to learn more? Contact our advisor and get full information!