Planning and Design

The efficient flow of products in and out of facilities is critical in today's highly competitive world. Special attention must be given to the loading dock area design for this to happen. A number of factors must be considered when coordinating dock heights and door sizes, and when selecting the proper loading dock equipment.

This section contains application and site considerations that need to be taken into account when specifying dock equipment.

Dock Access
Truck Berths
Dock Approach
Dock Types
Dock Height
Dock Pit Type

Door Size
Leveler Capacity
Leveler Selection: Load Class & Capacity
Leveler Width and Length
Dock Bumpers

Throughout the planning process, future requirements should always be addressed. The need for more door openings and more storage capability should be incorporated into the layout of the new building prior to its construction to save a great deal of cost and frustration later. Planners should also consider future changes to the loading dock application when deciding on the size and capacity of the loading dock equipment.