Dock Plates, Dock Boards & Rail Boards

Dock plates, dock boards, and rail boards are essential loading dock solutions used to safely bridge the gap between docks and trucks, trailers, railcars, and shipping containers. Facilities across Ohio rely on these products to improve loading efficiency while reducing risk to personnel and equipment. New and used dock plates, dock boards, and rail boards are available for a wide range of applications, from light hand-truck traffic to heavy forklift and railcar loading. Understanding the differences between each option helps ensure the right solution is selected for every dock environment.

Dock Plates

Dock plates provide a lightweight, portable option for bridging smaller gaps at the loading dock. They are most commonly used in non-powered applications where foot traffic, hand trucks or pallet jacks are involved.

Because dock plates are designed for manual handling, they offer a quick and economical way to improve dock access without permanent installation. Capacity, size, and configuration vary based on the specific application, making proper selection important for safe operation.

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Dock Boards

Dock boards are built for heavier loading applications and are designed to support motorized equipment such as forklifts and tow motors. Compared to dock plates, dock boards are larger, stronger, and capable of handling significantly higher loads.

These boards are commonly used where frequent loading occurs or where heavier palletized freight must move between the dock and trailer. Dock boards are available in multiple configurations to accommodate different dock heights, truck types, and operating conditions.

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Rail Boards (Railroad Dock Boards)

Rail boards, also known as railroad dock boards, are used to bridge the gap between a loading dock and a railcar. They allow forklifts to safely load and unload rail freight while maintaining proper alignment and stability.

Each rail board is designed to match specific dock and railcar conditions, making them a custom solution for rail-served facilities. Load capacity, deck design, and locking features vary depending on the rail application and operating requirements.

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Shipping Container Ramps

When shipping containers are placed directly on the ground, standard dock equipment may not provide safe access for forklifts. Shipping container ramps solve this challenge by creating a stable transition from ground level to the container floor.

These ramps are engineered to lock securely to the container and support forklift traffic during loading and unloading. Capacity and size requirements depend on container type and material handling equipment.

How to Select the Correct Dock Plate or Dock Board

Selecting the correct dock plate or dock board depends on several key factors, including load capacity, equipment type, dock height, and frequency of use. Proper sizing improves safety, reduces stress on equipment, and extends product service life.

As a general guideline, dock board capacity is calculated by multiplying a forklifts’ rated capacity to account for live load forces. Width and length should also be selected to maintain safe operating grades between the dock and vehicle.

Additional Loading Dock Equipment & Accessories

In addition to dock plates, dock boards, and rail boards, a complete loading dock system often includes supporting equipment to improve safety and efficiency. This may include yard ramps, dock bumpers, dock loading lights, wheel chocks, edge guards, and other dock accessories. These products work together to protect facilities, vehicles, and personnel during daily loading operations.

Manufacturers and USA-Made Quality

We stock and sell new and used dock plates, dock boards, and rail boards from leading manufacturers. A full range of yard ramps, container ramps, crossover ramps, walk ramps, curb ramps, and other loading dock solutions is also available.

All dock boards, plates, and rail boards are proudly manufactured in the USA and built to meet demanding industrial loading dock requirements.