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 Height (D) | Truck Bed Height (T) | Height Differential (H) | Dock Board Length (L) | Suitable for These Trucks | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 inches | 51 inches | 3 inches | 36 inches | Standard Vans, Low-Profile Trucks | Suitable for pallet jacks and hand trucks. |
| 48 inches | 55 inches | 7 inches | 60 inches | Refrigerated Trailers | Ensure proper slope for pallet jacks. |
| 48 inches | 60 inches | 12 inches | 96 inches | High-Bed Trailers, Box Trucks | Forklifts can handle this slope. |
| 42 inches | 48 inches | 6 inches | 48 inches | Flatbeds, Small Delivery Trucks | Ideal for general-purpose loading. |
| 42 inches | 54 inches | 12 inches | 96 inches | Refrigerated Trucks, Liftgate Trailers | Use only with heavy-duty dock boards rated for forklifts. |
| 36 inches | 42 inches | 6 inches | 48 inches | Small Utility Trailers, Parcel Vans | Consider lightweight aluminum boards for easy portability. |
| 36 inches | 50 inches | 14 inches | 108 inches | High Clearance Trailers | Extended dock boards ensure safer loading and unloading. |
| 60 inches | 48 inches | -12 inches | 96 inches | Low-Bed Trailers, Step Decks | Choose a board that safely inclines downward to the truck. |
| 48 inches | 48 inches | 0 inches | 36 inches | Standard Height Trailers, Box Trucks | No incline required; ensure the board is rated for the load capacity. |
| 30 inches | 45 inches | 15 inches | 120 inches | High Clearance Step Vans, Utility Trucks | Special-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!
