Types Of Loading Dock Levelers

A loading dock leveler is one of those necessary pieces of equipment you’ll need to run your warehouse more effectively. Having the right leveler will ensure that lift and pallet trucks transition smoothly from the building floor to the trucks’ beds and vice versa. These are some of the different types of dock levelers and why they might be the most effective units for your business.

Mechanical Dock Levelers

The mechanical dock levelers are the most cost-effective type. You may want to consider purchasing some of these if you have a new business and a limited budget. They primarily work using a spring for lever lifting and are easy to operate with the hands.

There is no electricity involved with mechanical levers; thus, you’ll save money on energy costs too. The downside to investing in this type of lever is that repair costs can be weighty. However, they’re excellent starter devices to use until your establishment can handle the expense of more advanced equipment.

Pit Levelers

Hydraulic pit levelers are the most common type of levelers and are versatile in their abilities. They have a much lengthier life expectancy than mechanical levelers and have a further range and a higher weight capacity.

These lever types use various hydraulic cylinders to maneuver the deck, and they need a power source to operate. Their most significant advantages are their versatility and low maintenance, while their downside is the cost. Your budget will suffer a little bit more when you choose to invest in hydraulic systems, but you can make up for it with the work you accomplish with their useful features.

Air-Powered Levelers

Air-powered dock levelers usually operate using a push-button feature. The operator presses a button that initiates an air-bag deployment that raises the deck. The biggest benefit of using this type of leveler is the easy positioning.

These levelers are the best performing units for high-temperature environments and warehouses that work with harsh chemicals. The concerning factor is the cost. Air-powered dock levelers are more advanced than other types, so their prices can be a little higher. However, you’ll appreciate their ease of use and protective features when you see your staff operating them.

Vertical Dock Levelers

Vertical levelers have many benefits. First, they have temperature control features that reduce the business’s cooling costs. These units sit in an upright position when they’re not in use, which gives the establishment the benefit of additional security. Operators can close the overhead doors all the way to prevent access to the building.

Vertical levelers use a hydraulic system to maneuver. Generally, they are easy to operate and have a more efficient sealing system than some other models. They can be pricey, however, and their value can be around $10,000 in some cases.

Now that you know some of the most common types of dock levelers, you can have confidence in the choices you make. Use a strategic approach to choose the most useful leveler for your establishment.