Southern Doc Products
Loading Dock Planning Solutions
Don’t miss out on the benefits of a well planned loading dock. Southern Dock Products and Just Rite Equipment are here to ensure you maximize your efficiency and value.
Loading Dock Planning Considerations
Below are common measurements and useful information when planning a loading dock:
Space in front of dock
| Center Distance in Feet | Apron Space in Feet |
|---|---|
| 12 feet | 135 feet |
| 13 feet | 131 feet |
| 14 feet | 128 feet |
| 16 feet | 125 feet |
| 18 feet | 123 feet |
Loading bay width
- 12 feet recommended minimum on center
- 14 feet if trailer doors open at dock
Typical truck dimensions
Truck bed height range
Slope Drive Design Considerations
If 0º - 1º decline grade: Standard seal and dock equipment.
- minimum 4� bumper projection
- 10� seal projection
- minimum 16� dock leveler lip
- standard restraint restraint
Click here for information on pit design for driveways with greater than a 2 degree grade.
Dock leveler capacity
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) = forklift, load and battery
Dynamic factors
- More than 8 trucks per day
- Loading speed more than 4 mph
- Three-wheeled forklifts (use 40K min.)
- Front end forklift attachments
- Capacity = GVW x 1.5 (if no dynamic factors)
- Capacity = GVW x 2.1 (if one factor)
- Capacity = GVW x 2.55 (if two or more factors)