30 May What Are the Different Types of Dock Levellers?
When your business handles deliveries or shipments at a loading bay, your operation couldn’t continue as safely or efficiently without a dock leveller. This equipment is essential for bridging the gap between a loading dock and a vehicle, making loading and unloading smoother and faster. But with more than one type available, which dock leveller best suits your site?
At RDS, we supply two types of dock levellers: mechanical and hydraulic. Each is designed to suit different site demands. In this blog, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and ideal uses for each.
Mechanical dock levellers
What is a mechanical dock leveller?
Mechanical dock levellers are operated manually using a pull chain or lever system. The platform is lifted using a spring and counterbalance mechanism, with no power required. They’re a reliable, straightforward solution for many commercial loading areas.
Best suited for:
- Medium-traffic sites
- Locations where power supply may be unavailable
- Businesses looking for a cost-effective, low-tech solution
Advantages of mechanical dock levellers:
- Lower upfront cost
- No electricity needed
- Easy to use and maintain
Disadvantages:
- Requires physical effort to operate, increasing strain on staff
- Slower to deploy than powered alternatives
- Less efficient for high-volume or 24/7 operations
Because they’re manually operated, mechanical dock levellers must be properly maintained and handled carefully to reduce the risk of injury.
Hydraulic dock levellers
What is a hydraulic dock leveller?
Hydraulic dock levellers are powered by an electric hydraulic pump and piston system, offering smooth, push-button control. The platform and lip can be positioned with minimal effort, making them ideal for busy environments.
Best suited for:
- High-volume distribution hubs
- Cold chain logistics, supermarkets, manufacturing sites
- Facilities with strict time and health and safety demands
Advantages of hydraulic dock levellers:
- Very safe and ergonomic, with no manual lifting required
- Faster cycle times for efficient loading/unloading
- Can be integrated with advanced dock control systems
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost
- Requires a power supply
- Hydraulic components may require more frequent inspection
Safety features often include:
- Emergency stop functions
- Pressure release valves
- Auto-return-to-dock functions (depending on specification)
Key Considerations When Choosing a Dock Leveller
Before deciding on the best dock leveller for your premises, we recommend that you consider the following:
- Traffic levels: How many vehicles use the bay each day?
- Vehicle types: Are you working with articulated lorries, sprinter vans, or a mix of both?
- Goods volume and weight: Heavier, high-volume operations may favour hydraulics.
- Power availability: Is there a reliable power source on-site?
- Health and safety: Is operator safety and ergonomic operation a priority?
- Budget: Are you looking for a quick fix or a long-term investment in efficiency?
A proper site survey can help ensure you choose the right solution the first time and avoid costly mistakes down the line.
Why Choose RDS for Dock Leveller Installation?
With over 25 years of experience in fitting and maintaining commercial loading bay solutions, RDS is trusted by major brands and facilities across the UK. Our team offers:
- Nationwide coverage
- Bespoke site surveys
- 24/7 emergency support
- CHAS-accredited engineers
- High-quality, long-lasting components
From initial consultation to full installation and aftercare, our team takes the time to understand your site requirements. Whether you’re running a high-traffic distribution centre or a compact commercial site, we can recommend the most effective dock leveller solution for you.
For tailored advice and support with choosing the right dock leveller for your premises, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.