Efficient and safe goods handling is an important aspect of any logistics company. Loading and unloading requires a smooth transition between the dock and the truck. This is necessary to move the cargo safely without any risk of injury or damage to equipment.
Traditional dock leveller versus stepped dock leveller
Traditional dock levellers often have a flat plate. This plate can move up and down to bridge the height difference between the dock and the truck. This design works well for trucks with a consistent height. But it can be problematic if different types of trucks and trailers are used. This is where the stepped dock leveller can provide a solution.
A stepped dock leveller consists of a series of raised platforms, also known as steps. These steps can be aligned with the floor of the truck. This creates a safe and stable loading zone. This allows the truck to dock with the doors closed. No unnecessary manoeuvres are required to raise the vehicle to the correct height. Once the truck is correctly positioned, the doors can be opened and loading and unloading can begin.
Advantages of the stepped dock leveller
One of the advantages of the stepped dock leveller is that it improves worker safety. Because the truck can dock with the doors closed, there is less risk of accidents. Time is also saved as the truck does not have to be raised to the correct height first. This reduces the risk of delays and ensures a faster flow of goods.
Another advantage of the stepped dock leveller is that it improves hygiene when transporting chilled or frozen goods. The closed doors ensure that the temperature inside the truck is maintained and that no external contaminants can enter, ensuring the quality and safety of the goods.
A stepped dock leveller is also ideal for customs purposes. When the doors of the truck need to remain closed until customs officials arrive, the truck can be docked and the doors kept closed. This not only prevents unauthorised access to the cargo, but also ensures that customs officials can do their work quickly and efficiently without unnecessary delays.
An additional benefit of a stepped dock leveller is that it helps prevent theft and break-ins. By keeping the doors closed during loading and unloading, it becomes more difficult for thieves to gain unseen access to the cargo.
Loading Systems' stepped dock can be configured to your specific needs
Are you interested in optimising your loading bay by means of a stepped dock leveller or other loading solutions? Loading Systems offers a wide range of products and services to meet all your requirements. Contact us today for more information and a no-obligation quotation!