Dock Boards – Steel & Aluminum Dock Boards in Ohio

Heavy Duty Dock Boards for Forklift Loading

Steel and aluminum dock boards provide a safe, stable bridge between your loading dock and trailer when forklifts or tow motors are in use. Midwest Material Handling supplies steel and aluminum dock boards throughout Ohio to warehouses, manufacturers, and distribution centers that require higher capacities and dependable performance at the dock.

Dock boards are designed specifically for motorized forklift traffic and heavy duty loading applications. If your operation moves palletized freight daily, selecting the correct dock board improves safety, protects equipment, and keeps loading operations efficient.

What Is a Dock Board?

A dock board bridges the gap between a loading dock and a trailer so forklifts can travel safely between surfaces. Unlike dock plates, which are commonly used for pallet jacks and lighter applications, dock boards are engineered for powered equipment and heavier combined weights. Dock boards are typically used for truck trailer loading. For railcar applications, see our rail dock boards page.

Dock boards typically offer capacities ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 pounds depending on material and configuration.

Most dock boards include:

• Steel or aluminum construction

• Side curbs to guide forklift tires

• Locking legs that rest securely against the dock face

• Locking pins that prevent shifting during use

• Forklift pockets for safe relocation

Because dock boards are heavier than dock plates, forklift pockets allow operators to position the board properly and safely.

Steel vs. Aluminum Dock Boards

Both materials serve a purpose, and the right choice depends on your application.

Steel dock boards are ideal for higher capacities and constant forklift traffic. They provide long term durability and are generally more cost effective at heavier weight ratings. Steel remains the most common choice for busy loading docks across Ohio warehouses and distribution facilities.

Aluminum dock boards are significantly lighter and easier to move. They resist corrosion and are often selected when portability is important. Aluminum boards typically cost more than comparable steel models but offer easier handling and repositioning.

If the board will remain in place and handle heavier combined weights, steel is usually the practical solution. If it must be moved frequently or repositioned by a single operator, aluminum may be the better fit.

Capacity, Width and Lip Options

Selecting the correct dock board requires careful attention to capacity and fit.

Key considerations include:

• Forklift operating weight

• Maximum load weight

• Combined forklift and load weight

• Dock height and trailer height variation

• Required travel width

• Frequency of use

Typical specifications include:

• Capacities from 10,000 to 40,000 pounds

• Standard 11 inch lip for conventional trailers

• Optional 14 inch lip for refrigerated trailers

• Widths commonly ranging from 48 inches to 96 inches

• Lengths typically ranging from 36 inches to 120 inches

Dock boards can also be configured for below dock loading conditions when required. Proper sizing ensures safe forklift travel and long term reliability.

Proper capacity selection protects operators, forklifts, trailers, and dock structures during daily loading activity.

Built for Demanding Dock Environments

Quality dock boards feature reinforced construction and dependable safety components built for real industrial use. All welded steel designs provide strength under repeated forklift traffic, while aluminum models deliver strength with reduced overall weight.

Selecting the correct dock equipment improves workplace safety and helps prevent damage to forklifts, trailers, and dock structures.

Dock Board FAQs

What capacity dock board do I need?

Capacity should be based on the combined weight of your forklift and maximum load. Always size the board for the highest possible combined weight to ensure safe operation.

What is the difference between a dock board and a dock plate?

Dock boards are designed for forklift traffic and higher capacities. Dock plates are typically used for pallet jacks and lighter, non motorized applications. If you are using forklifts, a dock board is generally required. Dock boards are required when forklifts are used at the loading dock.

Are aluminum dock boards strong enough for forklifts?

Yes. Aluminum dock boards are rated for forklift use within their stated capacity range. They are lighter than steel but generally more expensive.

What size dock board should I choose?

Width must allow safe forklift tire travel, and length must account for dock to trailer height difference. We recommend reviewing forklift specifications and dock height before selecting.

Can dock boards be used for below dock loading?

Yes. Certain dock board configurations allow for below dock conditions depending on height difference and lip design.

Serving Warehouses Across Ohio

Midwest Material Handling supplies steel and aluminum dock boards throughout Ohio to facilities that rely on safe and efficient loading operations. Whether you operate a single dock door or manage a multi door distribution center, we provide practical equipment solutions designed for real warehouse environments.

Dock boards are part of our complete dock equipment solutions for Ohio warehouses and distribution facilities.

Get Help Selecting the Right Dock Board

Tell us your forklift make and model, maximum load weight, dock height, and whether the board will be moved frequently. We will recommend the appropriate material, capacity, and size for your facility.

Contact Midwest Material Handling today for dock board pricing and availability in Ohio.