The Benefits of Loading Ramps

The Benefits of Loading Ramps

Loading ramps are useful apparatuses that allow us to lift or raise heavy items from the ground, up into the back of a truck or trailer. They can be used for several other purposes as well, like covering small flights of stairs, creating bridge-like paths, and more. This makes them a worthwhile investment for anyone with a truck. For heavy lifting and loading, loading ramps are indispensable tools that make it all possible.

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Loading a Truck

Types of Loading Ramps

There are several types of cargoes that commonly need to be transported but cannot be easily lifted and loaded into a trailer without the use of a loading ramp. Items such as vehicles, watercraft, horses, large livestock, motorcycles, construction equipment, machinery, large appliances, furniture, golf carts, and forklifts are examples of things that would be difficult to load onto a truck or trailer without a ramp. With a ramp, these objects can be walked, driven, or pushed up with ease. Not only does this reduce the physical strain of lifting heavy items, but it also alleviates stress on the lower back muscles, minimizing injury and soreness.

You can purchase loading ramps from most hardware or automotive stores, as well as online. Store-bought loading ramps generally come either pre-assembled or in a kit. Both types typically include all the necessary accessories to safely load a trailer, such as straps and chains. These accessories allow ramps to be securely connected to the safety hooks in a trailer, providing added security. Loading ramps are usually foldable, allowing for more efficient storage or easy transport in the back of trucks and trailers. It’s also wise to purchase additional accessories such as moving dollies, back braces, and moving gloves to aid in the loading process.

Loading Ramp Safety

Safety is a major concern when using loading ramps. If not properly used or securely connected, ramps can fail, shift, or move, creating hazardous conditions. This can result in serious injuries and damage to the cargo. Falls, slips, and broken bones are possible when loading heavy objects on an improperly secured ramp. When loading vehicles, it's crucial to pay close attention to the measurements of both the vehicle and the ramp. Misjudging these measurements can lead to vehicles tipping over or falling off the side of the ramp, posing risks of injury or death.

For safe and secure moving, loading, and hauling, consider hiring a professional towing company. These companies have the latest technologies and equipment to provide fast and secure loading and hauling services for large cargos and other items.

Fast Heavy Industry supply professional and honest service.

The Advantages of Aluminium Loading Ramps

Heavy-duty work often requires heavy-duty machinery, such as tractors, diggers, or mini loaders. However, transporting this machinery to your worksite can be challenging. While roads accommodate regular vehicles, there’s no special lane for construction machinery, making it essential to have a steel or aluminum loading ramp to transport your equipment where it needs to go.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the differences between steel and aluminum loading ramps, determining which variant is better, and how to optimize the use of your ramp. Let's get started and load up on some useful information.

Are Steel or Aluminium Loading Ramps Better?

There are several reasons to choose aluminum loading ramps over steel counterparts. Although aluminum ramps may not match a steel ramp's loading capacity, they come with numerous other advantages. Aluminum loading ramps can still hold a significant amount of weight.

If you're not dealing with super heavy-duty machinery, aluminum ramps are preferable to steel. Here’s why:

Aluminium Is Durable

Steel is strong, but it doesn’t hold up well under inclement weather. Unlike steel, aluminum resists corrosion, making it a highly durable option for outdoor work. Outdoor worksites expose equipment to various elements, including water, salt, solvents, and chemical agents. Aluminum stands resilient against these elements.

Aluminium Is Strong but Lightweight

Though steel is known for its strength, aluminum offers the perfect balance of strength and lightweight. Aluminium ramps can support loads ranging from 1,500 to 3,600kg, which is impressive, considering their lightweight nature. This makes aluminum ramps easier to transport and set up compared to steel ramps.

Aluminium Looks Better

When it comes to aesthetics, aluminum outshines steel. It has a cleaner look with a quality finish and can be easily maintained with varnishing, anodizing, or other treatments. Because aluminum resists corrosion, it maintains its attractive appearance over time.

Is aluminum alloy better than aluminum?

Aluminium Is Safer

Another advantage of aluminum ramps is safety. Aluminum ramps do not produce sparks when they come into contact with flammable substances on-site, unlike steel. This makes aluminum a safer option.

Key to Scissor Safety: Training, Not Tie Off

Aluminium Is More Sustainable

Thanks to aluminum recycling, aluminum ramps are a more sustainable choice. Most industrial equipment made from aluminum comes from recycled materials. Once your aluminum ramp reaches the end of its life cycle, it can be recycled, minimizing your carbon footprint.

Tips for Purchasing Your Aluminium Loading Ramp

If you have decided that aluminum is the way to go, there are a few things you need to consider to get the best out of your purchase. Here are some tips to guide you:

Know Your Weight Limit

First and foremost, you’ll need an aluminum loading ramp that can withstand the weight of whatever you are transporting, including the machinery and its attachments, the driver, and wet weight. Ensure the ramp can hold the maximum amount of weight you could possibly be carrying.

Choose the Right Rungs

Rungs on loading ramps come in different shapes. Rungs designed for steel tracks can withstand more weight than those designed for tires alone. Choose a model that supports your specific machinery, or opt for a flat walk ramp for carrying equipment.

Consider Length & Angle

Length and angle are crucial for safety. If your ramp’s length is not appropriate for your load, the angle could be dangerous. Typically, an angle of 18 degrees is safe, but you should calculate based on your load’s height and ramp’s length. An angle between 16 to 23 degrees is generally secure.

Making the Most of Your Aluminium Loading Ramp

An aluminum loading ramp can last 3 to 6 years or longer, depending on usage and maintenance. Despite their strength, loading ramps will weaken under frequent stress. Here’s how you can maximize the lifespan of your aluminum loading ramp:

Use Your Ramp Often

Use your ramp at least once a month to avoid hairline fractures from stiffening aluminum compounds.

Store Your Ramp in a Cool, Dry Place

When not in use, store your ramp in a safe, dry place, away from the elements, to prevent erosion or damage.

Tie Your Ramp Down

During transport, lay your ramp flat and secure it with a rope to prevent sudden jolts and slippage.

Interested in learning more about Heavy Duty Loading Ramps? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!