Yard Ramp - Standard Yardramp Features

Standard Yardramp Features

Although most mobile yardramps are generally of a similar design, it is important to be aware of their individual features, and the potential impact they can have on operations:

• 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 can require additional positioning and can prevent 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 lb), but some manufacturers produce alternative light duty 7-tonne (15,000 lb) models, and some produce heavy duty 12-tonne (26,000 lb), 15-tonne (33,000 lb) 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 1.0 to 1.7 m (3'3" to 5'7") is considered suitable as that allows the ramp to reach containers at around 1525 mm (5'0"), down to Euro Trailers at around 915 mm (3'0").

• A full width exit lip which sits securely on the bed of the vehicle to allow full width access to the vehicle/container. If the lip is narrower there is a risk of fork trucks falling or getting stuck in gaps between the ramp and vehicle. A few ramps 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.
4. Adequate signage to cover functions/instructions for the ramp.
5. The ramp should '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.