Hydraulic dock levelers are simple to operate and require no bending or pulling on the part of the operator. Activation is simply achieved through the use of constant pressure push button controls. In applications involving high capacities, multiple shifts and/or severe conditions, a hydraulic dock leveler is recommended. Safety concerns are more thoroughly addressed by using hydraulic levelers due to the flexibility of the electro/hydraulic power source. Hydraulic units also facilitate interlock capabilities to other equipment such as vehicle restraints, inflatable dock seals/shelters, overhead doors etc. The higher initial cost of a hydraulic unit (over mechanical ones) is offset by its reduced requirement for maintenance and its abundant features.


Mechanical dock levelers are operated by pulling the ring of the release chain. This disengages the hold down device and permits the lifting mechanism to raise the leveler deck and extend and lock the lip in position. The attendant then "walks down" the deck until the extended lip of the leveler rests on the vehicle bed. When the loading / unloading operation is completed, the operator pulls the ring on the release chain to again release the hold down to partially raise the deck (only if the unit was servicing below dock level). The lip will return to the pendant (retracted) position and the operator will then walk the deck down into the stored position. One major advantage of a mechanical over hydraulic dock leveler is that mechanical units do not require any electrical provisions and may be operated in the event of a power failure. However routine maintenance and lubrication does tend to increase the long-term expense of a mechanical unit. In addition, many of the features and accessories that are available for hydraulic units are not offered for mechanical ones.