Yardramps.co.uk

Although most mobile yardramps are generally of a similar design, it is important to be aware of their features, and their potential impact on your operation:

• Usable width – It is strongly recommended to use a ‘full width’ yardramp which is the width of a container for the full length of the ramp. Some ramps on the market are narrow for the majority of their length, but flare out at the top. This is not a recommended method as it requires additional positioning and often prevents pallets entering the vehicle parallel. Some yardramps are supplied narrower to allow them to be shipped in a container, ideally however they should be full width.

• Capacity – The industry standard capacity ramp is rated at 10 tonnes (22,000 lbs), but many manufacturers produce alternative light duty 7 tonne (15,000 lbs) models, and some produce heavy duty 12 tonne (26,000 lbs), 15 tonne (33,000 lbs) or higher capacity yardramps dependant upon the customers’ requirements.

• A level-off section at the top of the yardramp is required so that the load is inserted as parallel as possible to the floor of the vehicle, preventing impact with the roof, and also improving visibility for positioning.

• The working height of mobile yardramps needs to be adjustable to suit varying vehicle bed heights. The working height will also alter slightly as the vehicle is loaded or unloaded and moves on its suspension. Normally a working range of 1m to 1.7m is considered suitable. Height ranges that will allow the ramp to reach containers at around 1525mm (5’0”), down to Euro Trailers at around 915mm (3’0”) are considered suitable.

• A full width exit lip which sits securely on the bed of the vehicle to allow full width access to the vehicle/container. Any narrower and you risk your fork trucks falling or getting stuck in gaps between the ramp and vehicle. Also look for ramps which have strengthening ribs on the top of the exit lip, which can narrow the usable width and interfere with the loading/unloading operation, preventing the final pallets being loaded with the ramp.

• Fully mobile design with an easily operated tow mechanism; allowing the yardramp to be quickly and easily manoeuvred into position on the vehicle, or stored away until next needed.

• Essential safety features:

1. A means of preventing the yardramp and vehicle from creeping apart during use.
2. Safety rails to prevent fork trucks driving off the sides during use.
3. High traction, non-slip flooring along the length of the yardramp, including exit and entry areas at the top and bottom of the ramp respectively.
4. Adequate signage to cover functions/instructions for the ramp.
5. The ramp should be designed / operated such that it is able to ‘float’ up and down with the vehicle as it moves on its suspension during the loading/unloading operation.
6. Handrails along the full length, if the yardramp is likely to be used by personnel.
7. Safe Working Load must be clearly stated.