Five Important Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mobile Yard Ramp
A mobile yard ramp is designed to assist with the unloading of a standard ISO container or rear-loading truck, without the need for a permanent docking bay.
The ramp is attached to the back of the container or truck and a forklift can then be used to remove the load. As the forklift can be driven to the rear of the container/truck, unloading takes a fraction of the time it would take with a pallet jack. And it creates a safer work environment as there is no need to move the load manually.
Five factors to consider when choosing a mobile garden ramp include:
1) Design
The design of a mobile garden ramp differs with each manufacturer, but they share a common factor; the need for a robust, resistant and solid construction.
The length of a ramp can vary between 10 meters up to 12 meters. Its width should not be less than 2.25 m.
Ease of maneuvering and operator use are important factors when considering which design to choose. The front end of the ramp will normally have a tow hook or attachment device to allow the ramp to be towed by a forklift. Wheels with urethane tires are ideal for moving the ramp. They are designed to be tough, but are inexpensive to replace if needed. A hydraulic hand pump system will allow the operator to easily adjust the height.
Light-duty patio ramps can be made of aluminum, but it’s best to get one that’s constructed of welded steel. This will withstand the rigors of the work environment with minimal wear and tear. A durable high specification paint finish on the ramp will inhibit rust.
2) Capacity
The moving yard ramp must be suitable for the load you are unloading. Its capacity must exceed the combined weight of the heaviest forklift and the heaviest weight of the loads it will carry.
To anticipate heavy loads, make sure a yard ramp is rated at least three times the weight of your largest forklift.
3) Security
Safety with a mobile yard ramp is very important, especially since you will be moving heavy loads with mobile vehicles on a raised platform.
Choose a garden ramp that has safety chains to ensure it is securely fastened to the rear of the vehicle or container. Always use wheel chocks to prevent the ramp from moving.
The ramped deck must have good grip. The open grill sheet provides a sturdy, non-slip surface.
Always check your garden ramp for signs of wear and damage before using it. Replace any part as needed.
4) Availability of spare parts
Garden ramps are built to last, but due to the harsh working environment in which they are used, damage and wear and tear are inevitable. Only approved repair and maintenance parts are used, ideally sourced directly from the original ramp manufacturer.
Established companies like Chase Equipment have their own team of experienced service engineers to ensure your moving yard ramp is kept in good working order.
5) Rent or Buy
Renting is the best short-term solution if the use of a mobile yard ramp is temporary. But due to the cost of transporting a yard ramp to your location, purchasing a mobile yard ramp may be the most cost effective in the long run.
Whether you choose to rent or buy, always go to a reputable company that has experience with loading docks and material handling equipment. They will be able to give you the best advice and find the most profitable solution for your needs.