Dock Board & Dock Plate Guide

Dock boards and dock plates are a portable, non-permanent solution to loading semi truck trailers at a loading dock. These dock ramps bridge a gap from the dock to the truck, overcoming both the gap distance, but also the height differential between the truck and the dock.  typically, dock boards are of heavier-duty construction than dock plates and allow for utilizing a forklift to load and unload a trailer.

Dock Plates

The surface of dockplates is typically safe and skid-resistant.  A ten degree bend in the plate allows edges to be flush at dock and truck for smooth material transfer. Beveled edges reduce wear and excessive equipment jarring. Locking legs secure the plate for safe loading and unloading. This unit also comes complete with carrying handles attached to the locking legs for easier portability.

Also notice that the dock plate does not have guide rails on the sides.  This is typical of dock plates as they are not usually handling vehicular traffic such as forklifts.  Also notice, however that to prevent run-off, the edges of the dockplate are distinguished by different shades as well as the lack of diamond plating.

Aluminum Dock Plates
Steel Dock Plates

Dock plate capacities range from 1,800 pounds to 5,500 pounds.

Dock Boards

Aluminum Dock Board (Note the Guide Rails)

Dockboards are engineered and built to safely handle heavy forklifts and loads. Capacities from 5,000 pounds to 30,000 pounds are available. Locking legs prevent movement during loading and unloading. Locking legs are uneven to allow the dockboard to sit canted for easier pickup by forklifts, when picking off the floor. Dockboards also feature side curbs to prevent vehicles (forklifts) and loads from falling between the truck and the dock – this is known as run-off and is a serious safety concern.

Aluminum Dock Boards
Formed Aluminum Dock Boards
Steel Dock Boards
Aluminum Dock Boards With Steel Curbs

Selecting a Dock Board

Step 1: Determine Capacity

Dock board capacities are based upon the heaviest type of equipment used plus the maximum load carried times the % of single axle rating of total load carried – as shown in this formula:

(Equipment Weight + Max Load Weight) x Single Axle Rating of Total Load = Capacity Needed

Here is a table of the Single Axle Rating of Various Modes of Transportation.

Step 2: Determine Overall Width Needed

The width of your dockplate or dockboard should be at least 15″ wider than the load or equipment passing between the curbs. If the load does not pass between curbs but is elevated above, add 15″ to overall width of the equipment.

Step 3: Determine Maximum Height Differential

Use this guide for truck floor heights to determine the height differential from the truck bed to dock.
(numbers reference an empty truck).

Step 4: Determine Plate Length

Use the information below to determine the length of the plate needed.