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Choosing the Correct Size Dock Board for Dummies!

Choosing the Correct Size Dock Board for Dummies!

Determine Your Dock Board Length (For Dummies)

Choosing the correct dock board length is essential for safe and efficient loading or unloading. This step by step guide simplifies the process with easy-to-follow steps and a helpful chart. Whether you're using pallet jacks, forklifts, or other equipment, we've got you covered.

Dock Board Length Recommendations
Dock Height (D)Truck Bed Height (T)Height Differential (H)Dock Board Length (L)Suitable for These TrucksNotes
48 inches51 inches3 inches36 inchesStandard Vans, Low-Profile TrucksSuitable for pallet jacks and hand trucks.
48 inches55 inches7 inches60 inchesRefrigerated TrailersEnsure proper slope for pallet jacks.
48 inches60 inches12 inches96 inchesHigh-Bed Trailers, Box TrucksForklifts can handle this slope.
42 inches48 inches6 inches48 inchesFlatbeds, Small Delivery TrucksIdeal for general-purpose loading.
42 inches54 inches12 inches96 inchesRefrigerated Trucks, Liftgate TrailersUse only with heavy-duty dock boards rated for forklifts.
36 inches42 inches6 inches48 inchesSmall Utility Trailers, Parcel VansConsider lightweight aluminum boards for easy portability.
36 inches50 inches14 inches108 inchesHigh Clearance TrailersExtended dock boards ensure safer loading and unloading.
60 inches48 inches-12 inches96 inchesLow-Bed Trailers, Step DecksChoose a board that safely inclines downward to the truck.
48 inches48 inches0 inches36 inchesStandard Height Trailers, Box TrucksNo incline required; ensure the board is rated for the load capacity.
30 inches45 inches15 inches120 inchesHigh Clearance Step Vans, Utility TrucksSpecial-purpose boards with added length for steep height differentials.

How to Use the Dock Board Length Chart

Don’t worry if this seems complicated—we’ve made it simple. Follow these steps to determine the correct dock board length for your setup:

Step 1: Measure Your Dock Height (D)

  • Measure the height from the ground to your dock’s surface.
  • Write down the measurement in inches.

Step 2: Measure the Truck or Trailer Bed Height (T)

  • Identify the truck or trailer type.
  • Measure the height from the ground to the bed’s surface.

Step 3: Calculate the Height Differential (H)

  • Use this formula: H = T - D.
  • Example: If the dock height is 48 inches and the truck bed height is 60 inches: H = 60 - 48 = 12 inches.

Step 4: Match Your Height Differential (H) to the Chart

  • Find the row in the chart that matches your calculated height differential (H).

Step 5: Select Your Dock Board Length (L)

  • Choose the dock board length from the chart’s "Dock Board Length (L)" column.

Step 6: Double-Check for Safety

  • Ensure the dock board width is 12–18 inches wider than your equipment.
  • Verify the capacity rating supports your equipment and cargo weight.
  • Check the incline angle for your equipment:
    • Pallet Jacks: ≤ 5 degrees
    • Forklifts: ≤ 10 degrees

Example Calculation

Dock height: 42 inches

Truck bed height: 48 inches

Height differential: H = 48 - 42 = 6 inches

Recommended dock board length: 48 inches (4 feet)

You’re all set!

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