Dock Plate vs Dock Board: What’s the Difference?
We regularly hear from customers who need to safely bridge the gap between a loading dock and a semi trailer. At first glance, it seems simple. Some assume a thick steel plate placed between the dock and trailer will solve the problem.
That assumption can create serious safety risks.
Choosing between a dock plate and a dock board depends on how the equipment will be used, what type of traffic will cross it, and how much weight it must support. While the two products look similar, they are built for very different applications.
The Main Difference Comes Down to Capacity
The biggest difference between a dock plate and a dock board is load capacity and equipment type.
Dock plates are typically aluminum and designed for lighter duty use. Dock boards are engineered for forklift traffic and heavy loads.
Using the wrong one is not just inefficient. It can be unsafe.
When to Use an Aluminum Dock Plate
Aluminum dock plates are best suited for non powered loading equipment such as:
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Hand carts
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Manual pallet jacks
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Light material movement
They are lighter in weight, easier to position, and often include hand holes for portability.
Most aluminum dock plates include bolt on steel safety legs that sit between the dock and trailer to help secure the plate during use. They also feature diamond tread surfaces for traction and beveled edges for smoother transitions.
Typical sizes range from 30 to 84 inches wide and 24 to 84 inches long.
If forklifts are not crossing the gap and loads are moderate, a dock plate is often the appropriate solution.
When a Steel Dock Board Is Required
Dock boards are designed for powered equipment and significantly higher capacities.
If a forklift will cross the dock gap, a dock board is generally required.
Steel dock boards are constructed using welded steel and reinforced designs that support concentrated wheel loads. Many models offer capacities ranging from 15,000 to 40,000 pounds.
They are available in wider and longer sizes than most dock plates and can be used in standard, refrigerated, container, and even below dock applications.
Unlike dock plates, dock boards are built to handle the stresses created by forklifts and heavy palletized loads.
Why Safety Legs and Height Differential Matter
Both dock plates and dock boards use safety legs to help secure the equipment between the dock and trailer.
However, the correct leg height and positioning depend on the height differential between the dock and the trailer deck. This measurement plays a critical role in determining the proper size and capacity needed.
Selecting the correct equipment involves more than matching width and length. Capacity and dock conditions must also be considered.
A Simple Way to Decide
Ask yourself three questions:
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Will a forklift cross the gap?
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What is the maximum combined weight of equipment and load?
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How large is the height difference between dock and trailer?
If forklifts are involved, choose a dock board.
If loading is done manually or with pallet jacks only, an aluminum dock plate may be sufficient.
Understanding the difference between a dock plate and a dock board helps prevent costly mistakes and improves dock safety. If you would like more detailed specifications, capacity guidance, or product options, you can explore our full dock equipment section for additional information.
