A Rite-Hite representative can walk you through the entire process to help you select the best dock leveler for your application.
Please Contact Us with your request.

Definition: Dock levelers are devices used to bridge the gap between the dock and the trailer during loading and unloading. Many trailers come in with bed heights either above or below the height of the dock. Dock levelers move up or down to meet the trailer bed so that forklifts can make a smooth, safe transition into and out of the trailer.

Dock levelers are also known as dock boards or dock plates.

In addition to their basic function, dock levelers can also enhance safety and productivity on the dock through a variety of design features. Different types of levelers are appropriate for different industries and/or different operations.

A Rite-Hite representative can walk you through the entire process to help you select the best dock leveler for your application.
Please Contact Us with your request.

Today, selecting the right dock leveler for your facility can be more complicated than ever. New models are being introduced. Truck designs are changing. Productivity is critical. And safety is becoming an even bigger issue at docks across the country.

There are now three basic types of dock levelers: hydraulic, mechanical, and power assisted mechanical units. Each design has its place, depending on the application, but there are distinct differences between each type. So before you select a leveler for your facility, follow this simple six-step procedure for evaluating your needs. By analyzing these key areas, you'll be able to choose the best equipment for your operation. Here's a brief look at the topics we cover:

• Your Specific Needs
• Safety
• Ease of Operation
• Maintenance
• Reliability/Durability
• Manufacturer Support

Step 1: Consider your specific needs.
Different operations place different demands on a dock leveler. Make sure that the leveler you choose matches your individual requirements. Consider the types of vehicles that will use your dock, trailer dimensions, frequency of use and load capacities. All of these factors will help determine the leveler that's best designed for your operation.

Step 2: Put employee safety first.
Safety is one of the most critical considerations when selecting any loading dock equipment. The leveler covers the "danger zone" - that gap between the dock and trailer that is crossed by forklifts up to 100,000 times per year. Make sure that the levelers you choose are built for maximum safety in four key areas: (1) vacant dock drop-off protection; (2) free-fall protection; (3) protecting cross-traffic against voids in the floor; and (4) protecting personnel during leveler maintenance.

Step 3: Look for easy operation.
Convenience is a key consideration in choosing your leveler. For optimum productivity, you want a system that's easy to learn, easy to operate and easy on your personnel. You need to look at the convenience of operation for the three leveler types, hydraulic, mechanical, and power-assisted mechanical to determine which is best suited for your facility. Push-button vs. pull chain, full range float, and lip extension/retraction are just a few of the isuues to consider.

Step 4: Consider maintenance costs.
Initial cost is just part of the picture when evaluating your leveler purchase. Anticipated maintenance and repair costs are also vital factors. Consider the accessibility of components for servicing. Look for simplicity of design. Check the overall quality of construction. And consider the frequency of required maintenance. Levelers can vary widely on these points, which all contribute to the overall lifetime ownership cost of the unit.

Step 5: Look for reliability and durability.
To get maximum reliability from your dock leveler, consider your specific application and make sure the equipment can meet the challenge. Structural differences between competitive models may not be obvious at first glance. So when evaluating equipment, look closely for dependable design, quality construction, strength and stability. These factors should give you more dependable performance, longer leveler life and lower ownership costs.

Step 6:Check manufacturer and representative support.
When you choose a dock leveler, you're making a long-term investment. You're choosing an important product. And you're also choosing a company. Make sure you select a manufacturer and local dealer who stand behind the equipment and provide complete service and support. Ask about a company's track record with existing customers. Ask for a product demonstration, and visit a field site where the equipment has been installed for some time. Check out the availability of service specialists. Ask about guaranteed life expectancy of the leveler and make sure you get written warranties.