Mobile yard ramps convert vacant space into a freight-handling center. It’s a versatile piece of loading dock equipment that will expand your present dock capacity and create loading facilities where no dock exists, without new construction.
Portable yard ramps can provide ground level access to containers, trucks or buildings, acting as the bridge between goods and forklifts. Their mobility makes it easy to move from job to job and handle cargoes with a forklift virtually anywhere.
No matter whether you plan to purchase a new mobile yard ramp for permanent use or rent a used one for temporary use, selecting a right mobile yard ramp that perfectly suits your work need can be a challenge. Don’t worry, here 9 factors to consider when choosing a mobile loading dock ramp are listed to help you make wise decisions.
1. Deck Grating/Checkered Ramp Plate
All of our heavy-duty yard ramps are constructed of anti-skid serrated steel for superior strength. This deck grating ramp can prevent the forklift from sliding down when transporting goods. Also, it can disperse the stress or weight of forklift and goods, preventing deformation and prolonging the service life of the whole dock ramp.
2. High-Strength Supporting Legs
Supporting legs are mainly used to hold the ramp when in storage. It helps to make the ramp more stable and avoid risk when ramp is not connected with truck container. But during goods handling work, they must be retracted for safe factors. Why? Please refer to this post to understand detail information.
3. Hydraulic Cylinder/Undercarriage
The efficient hydraulic cylinder system allows the ramp to raise evenly every time. The undercarriage is easily accessible for maintenance and repair. With reliable cylinder design and parts, there are less parts to maintain or replace, saving your cost and downtime.
4. Pump Station
The single acting hydraulic hand pump design requires half the effort needed to raise ramp compared to other mobile ramps. The pump is relocated so that it is protected away from dirt, debris, damage and makes maintenance easier to perform. The handle is stored out of the way when not in use.
5. Guard Rail
When designing mobile dock ramps, strength and stability were at the top of the list – that’s why the guard rail is designed with a truss structure that distributes the weight along a wider area, making the ramp more durable and sturdy. It can also enclose all working components and protect them from possible damage.
6. Tyre Blocks
Stability is never an issue with the forklift ramp. When it’s in use, simply use the tyre blocks to stabilize the wheels, and the forklift will stay steady and secure as it moves on the ramp. The solid tires are standard on all MORN mobile yard ramps and are ideal for all applications. The tires do not require air to fill, are maintenance-free and have lubricated for life bearings.
7. Lip and Safety Chains
Deep overlap of ramp frame at the high end assures that the ramp rests firmly on the container body or dock floor. The safety chains and hooks provide added security and increase safety. When correctly rigged, chains join the yard ramps and vehicles into a single unit.
8. Leading Board
For even more stability, use the leading board! It provides a smooth ground-level entry, eliminating jolts and bumps when fork trucks travel on and off the ramp. When you don’t need it, fold it up for easy and convenient storage.
9. Towbar
The towbar is an option on container ramps which attaches to the lower end of the ramp. It allows the ramp to be towed for a short distance. Only one worker is enough to operate this, no more daunting procedures.
Our wide range of mobile yard ramps come with maximum capacities up to 15 tons. Both standard models and customized models are available for your choice. Contact us today to find the best fit for your business.
