How to Guide to Dock Levelers

Dock Levelers attach permanently to a loading dock face or are mounted in a specially dug pit. Unlike dock boards and dock plates, these are a permanent solutions that provide immediate access while saving floor space. They are typically constructed of high strength steel to maximize strength and durability. Some units are fully mechanical - needing no power - while others are electric and utilize motors for raising and lowering the dock platform.

Overview of Dock Levelers Available Online from SJF

Mechanical Edge-of Dock Levelers

By far the most popular dock levelers on the market today, these edge of dock levelers attach to the edge of your truck dock and eliminate the need for a custom dug concrete pit. Available in 20,000 and 25,000 lb. capacities, these units are mechanically operated and come complete with dock bumpers.

Hydraulic Edge-of Dock Levelers

Like the mechanical edge of dock levelers above, these hydraulic edge of dock levelers also attach to the edge of your truck dock and eliminate the need for a custom dug concrete pit. Unlike the mechanical models, however, these units are fully powered and operate with the simple push of a button.

Mechanical Dock Levelers

Mechanical dock levelers are operated by hooking the lip and lifting until the tip of the lip clears the bed of the trailer. With an outward lifting motion the lip is extended and the leveler is lowered to the trailer. When the trailer departs the lip retracts behind the bumper face automatically. Units come complete with bumpers and lifting hook.

Electric Hydraulic Dock Levelers

Electric hydraulic dock levelers are the easiest leveler type to operate. After the truck is backed against the door, push and hold the control button. The ramp raises and the lip will extend and come to rest on the truck bed. When the truck departs the lip retracts behind the bumpers automatically. 30,000 pound capacity is standard on these units.