Rail Dock Boards for Railcar Loading in Ohio

Heavy Duty Rail Dock Boards Built for Railcar Applications

Rail dock boards provide a safe and stable bridge between a loading dock and a railcar during forklift loading and unloading. Midwest Material Handling supplies steel rail dock boards throughout Ohio to manufacturers, warehouses, and industrial facilities that ship and receive freight by rail.

Railcar loading conditions differ significantly from truck trailer applications. Floor heights, latch locations, gap distances, and track positioning all vary from site to site. For this reason, most rail dock boards are custom built to match the specific dock and railcar conditions at your facility, ensuring proper fit and safe load transfer.

Typical capacity ratings range from 15,000 to 90,000 pounds depending on configuration and application requirements.

What Is a Rail Dock Board?

A rail dock board, sometimes referred to as a railroad board, bridges the gap between a dock and a railcar so forklifts can travel safely between surfaces.

While similar in concept to standard dock boards used for truck trailers, rail dock boards are engineered specifically for railcar loading. Each unit is designed to match dock height, railcar floor height, and gap distance to ensure stable positioning and safe forklift operation.

Most steel rail dock boards include:

• All welded steel construction

• Raised diamond tread plate deck for improved traction

• Structural steel support beams

• Overlap style lips at both dock and railcar ends

• Integrated forklift lifting loops

• Automatic drop locks or heavy duty locking rings for secure positioning

• Box under structure reinforcement for added strength and protection

Raised tread plate improves traction during forklift travel. Overlap style lips provide versatility at both connection points. Drop lock systems help secure the rail dock board between the dock and railcar during loading operations. Certain locking systems may increase overall board width depending on configuration.

Built to Match Your Dock Conditions

Railcar configurations vary widely. Door latches, floor heights, track alignment, and dock construction all influence board design. For that reason, rail dock boards are typically built to order.

Before fabrication, a configuration worksheet is completed to confirm:

• Dock height

• Railcar floor height

• Gap distance between dock and railcar

• Clearance around door hardware and latches

• Required load capacity

Rail dock boards are highly specific pieces of equipment and must be properly specified to ensure correct placement and safe forklift operation. Because railcar configurations differ from site to site, professional review of measurements and load requirements is essential. Proper specification protects operators, forklifts, railcars, and dock structures during daily loading activity.

Custom rail dock boards are manufactured to match these specifications and can typically be produced within standard fabrication timelines once measurements are confirmed.

Capacity and Construction Details

Steel rail dock boards are built for heavy duty industrial environments and repeated forklift traffic. Capacity ratings commonly range from 15,000 to 90,000 pounds depending on application needs.

Construction features may include:

• Reinforced structural steel framework

• Recessed lifting loops for safe handling

• Heavy duty locking rings for secure positioning

• Box under structure bumpers to protect railcar hardware

Selecting the proper capacity ensures safe load transfer and long term durability under demanding loading conditions.

Rail Dock Boards vs Dock Boards

Rail dock boards are designed specifically for railcar loading. Standard dock boards are used between a loading dock and a truck trailer.

Railcar door latches, floor heights, and track placement create transition requirements that differ from truck trailer applications. Using the correct board for each environment improves safety and helps prevent equipment strain.

If your facility loads truck trailers, see our dock boards page for trailer specific solutions.

Serving Ohio Industrial Facilities

Midwest Material Handling supplies rail dock boards throughout Ohio to manufacturers, distribution centers, and industrial operations that rely on rail freight.

We work directly with facility managers and operations teams to ensure each rail dock board matches real world loading conditions, capacity requirements, and site specifications.

Rail dock boards are part of our complete Dock Plates, Dock Boards & Rail Boards solutions for Ohio facilities.

Rail Dock Board FAQs

Are rail dock boards custom built?

Yes. Rail dock boards are typically custom manufactured to match the exact dock and railcar conditions at your facility. Measurements are reviewed prior to fabrication to ensure proper fit and safe performance.

What capacity rail dock board do I need?

Capacity should be based on the combined weight of the forklift and maximum load. Rail dock boards are commonly available in capacities from 15,000 to 90,000 pounds depending on configuration.

Do rail dock boards need to be professionally specified?

Yes. Proper specification is critical to ensure safe placement, structural support, and forklift stability. Because railcar configurations vary, professional measurement review is strongly recommended.

Can rail dock boards be used for truck trailers?

Rail dock boards are engineered specifically for railcar loading conditions. Truck trailer applications typically require a standard dock board.

How long does it take to manufacture a rail dock board?

Production timelines depend on finalized specifications. Once measurements and configuration details are confirmed, fabrication proceeds according to standard manufacturing schedules.

Get Help Selecting the Right Rail Dock Board

Provide your forklift model, maximum load weight, dock height, and railcar details. Our team will review your specifications and recommend the appropriate rail dock board configuration for safe and reliable loading.

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