Every so often, we have the opportunity to revisit a project we completed years ago. It’s always interesting to see how the equipment has held up over time.
Recently, we stopped by one of our long-time customers to take another look at a Copperloy-JH Industries dock-to-ground ramp that Midwest Material Handling installed approximately 20 years ago. While the yellow paint has faded from years of Ohio weather, the ramp itself remains structurally sound and continues to provide safe, dependable forklift access every day.
Projects like this are a reminder that quality equipment, combined with a thoughtful installation, can provide decades of reliable service.
A Unique Installation
This wasn’t a typical installation. The building originally had an older Rite-Hite mechanical dock leveler that had deteriorated beyond practical use. Rather than removing the entire dock leveler and rebuilding the dock opening, we installed the Copperloy dock-to-ground ramp directly over the existing structure.
The result was a permanent transition from ground level to the loading dock without the expense and disruption of major demolition. More than two decades later, that solution continues to perform exactly as intended.
Built for Everyday Forklift Traffic
This dock-to-ground ramp is approximately 30 feet long with a 20,000-pound capacity, making it well suited for most forklifts used in warehouse and industrial applications.
While this installation is a permanent dock-to-ground ramp, many businesses choose portable yard ramps when flexibility or temporary loading access is needed. Midwest Material Handling supplies both permanent and portable yard ramps throughout Ohio, helping customers find the right solution for their facility.
Simple Design. Proven Performance.
Sometimes the simplest design features make the biggest difference.
One of the most noticeable features of this Copperloy ramp is the serrated open steel grating. Unlike solid steel decking, the open grating allows rain, snow and debris to pass through instead of collecting on the surface. The serrated edges also provide excellent traction for forklifts in wet or snowy conditions.
The heavy steel side curbs help guide forklifts safely up and down the ramp while adding strength to the overall structure. Looking at the ramp today, it’s easy to see that these design features have contributed to its longevity.
Looking Beyond the Paint
After spending more than 20 years outdoors, it’s perfectly normal to see faded paint and a little surface rust. What impressed us wasn’t the cosmetics. The heavy steel frame remains straight and solid. The side curbs show very little impact damage, and the serrated grating continues to provide a secure driving surface for daily forklift traffic.
It’s easy to focus on appearance, but structural integrity is what really matters. This ramp continues to do the job it was built to do.
Approximate Specifications
- Manufacturer: Copperloy
- Manufactured in Ohio
- Approximate Length: 30 feet
- Capacity: 20,000 pounds
- Heavy structural steel construction
- Serrated open steel grating for excellent traction and drainage
- Heavy steel side curbs
- Permanent dock-to-ground installation
We Sell and Rent Yard Ramps
Not every operation requires a permanent installation. In addition to selling new and used yard ramps, Midwest Material Handling also offers yard ramp rentals throughout Ohio. Renting is an excellent option for seasonal demand, temporary warehouse expansions, equipment breakdowns or short-term projects where purchasing a ramp doesn’t make sense.
Whether you need a portable yard ramp for a few weeks or a permanent dock-to-ground ramp for decades of service, we’re happy to help you choose the right solution.
Need a Yard Ramp for Your Facility?
Whether you’re looking for a permanent dock-to-ground ramp, a portable yard ramp or a short-term rental, Midwest Material Handling can help. We sell new and used yard ramps, offer rental options throughout Ohio and can recommend the best solution based on your loading dock, forklift capacity and application.
Need a quote or have questions? Contact Midwest Material Handling today. We’ll help you find the right ramp for your operation. In addition to yard ramps, Midwest Material Handling supplies a full line of material handling equipment for warehouses and distribution centers throughout Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do yard ramps typically last?
A quality steel yard ramp can provide decades of reliable service when properly maintained. The Copperloy ramp featured in this article has been in service for more than 20 years and remains structurally sound and is used regularly.
What is the difference between a dock-to-ground ramp and a portable yard ramp?
A dock-to-ground ramp is a permanent installation that provides forklift access between ground level and a loading dock. A portable yard ramp can be moved to different loading locations, making it ideal for facilities without a permanent dock or businesses that need flexibility.
Do you rent yard ramps?
Yes. Midwest Material Handling rents yard ramps throughout Ohio for temporary projects, seasonal demand, warehouse expansions and emergency loading situations.
What yard ramp capacity do I need?
That depends on the combined weight of your forklift and its load. We can help determine the appropriate ramp capacity based on your equipment and application.
Do you install dock-to-ground ramps?
Yes. We provide installation services for permanent dock-to-ground ramps as well as sales, rentals and service throughout Ohio.
