
Exterior loading dock levelers are a crucial component of any warehouse or distribution center. They provide a safe and efficient way to load and unload goods from trucks.
A major benefit of exterior loading dock levelers is their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures and precipitation. This is due to their rugged design and durable construction.
Exterior loading dock levelers are also designed to be easy to use, with features such as hydraulic or pneumatic systems that make it simple to raise and lower the platform. This reduces the risk of injury to workers and saves time in the loading process.
One of the most significant benefits of exterior loading dock levelers is their ability to increase productivity and efficiency in the loading and unloading process. By providing a smooth and level surface, exterior loading dock levelers enable workers to quickly and easily load and unload goods, reducing the risk of damage and delays.
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Top Benefits

YARD RAMP Site dock levelers are smooth and easy to operate, making freight handling safe and efficient.
One-quarter the effort is needed to operate our exclusive lift mechanism and spring assembly compared to conventional edge of dock levelers.
Push button operation is available on our hydraulic models, making it even easier to use.
The YARD RAMP Site Edge of Dock leveler is ideal for retrofitting, easily mounting to the face of almost any dock.
Transition plates and approach ramps are also available for a seamless loading experience.
Every YARD RAMP Site Edge of Dock Leveler comes equipped with a safety maintenance strut to secure the unit while performing routine maintenance.
Maintenance is reduced to simple lubrication of hinges, which come equipped with grease fittings, making upkeep a breeze.
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Design and Customization
You can get a dock leveler that's tailored to your specific needs. Customized Per Application dock levelers can be engineered to customer specifications, by integrating scissor lifts, VHL levelers, skewed options, and more.

The length of these customized levelers can range from 4 to 15 feet or more.
Dockzilla offers a similar built-to-order approach, allowing you to specify the exact configuration and size you need. This includes options like scissors lifts or VHL levelers.
Sizing for these custom levelers can range from a 2-foot projection off the wall to nearly 30 feet.
Installation and Retrofit
A fast retrofit of an exterior dock leveler can be done in just a day, avoiding internal disruptions and costly downtime.
You can choose from various power options, including a plug-in DC retrofit that doesn't require an electrician.
For proper dock level installation, it's crucial to review the edge-of-dock manual and consider necessary precautions.
The installer must evaluate the dock area's health and make any necessary repairs before installation.
All anchors must have a minimum strength in shear of 10,000 lbs force and a minimum of 6,000 lb pullout strength in uncracked concrete.
Exterior dock levelers can be installed in a half-day, whereas pit levelers require weeks for permitting and demolition.
Digging pits in your building floor is unnecessary with exterior dock levelers, which can be easily detached and relocated.
Protection and Preservation

Protecting your building from damage is crucial, and exterior loading dock levelers can help. The high-strength steel frame absorbs impact and deflects forces away from the building, minimizing damage from trailers.
This is especially important if you're concerned about direct hits from trailers, which can cause significant damage. You can rest assured that your building will be better protected.
By installing a dock house exterior dock leveler, you can also save energy and keep pests out. This is because the dock door can close directly on the building floor instead of a steel dock plate, saving up to $2,500 per year per dock position.
Preserve Floor Space
Preserve Floor Space is a game-changer for warehouses. By bolting the Dock House Exterior Dock Leveler onto the exterior of a building, you can preserve internal floor space for warehouse operations.
This means you can keep your valuable floor space free for storage and movement, without sacrificing functionality. The modular design of the Dock House Exterior Dock Leveler makes it easy to detach and relocate when needed.
You can expect to have a leveler in just one day, with zero disruption to your internal operations. This is a huge advantage over traditional dock levelers that require concrete and floor destruction.
Safety

Dockzilla's exterior dock levelers are architecturally designed per OSHA/IBC codes for safety, and they’re vehicle restraint compatible. This ensures that employees are protected from potential hazards.
Their loading dock equipment is designed with safety in mind, adhering to OSHA/IBC codes. This attention to detail is crucial for preventing accidents.
Dock House Exterior Dock Levelers are self-supported, which reduces the risk of equipment failure. This feature, combined with safety features, protects employees from harm.
By prioritizing safety, Dockzilla's equipment helps prevent accidents and ensures a secure working environment.
Durable
Dock levelers are built to last, with high-quality materials and a robust design that can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
They are made from high-strength steel, which provides the necessary strength and durability for heavy forklift loading needs.
A 5-year structural warranty is included, giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment.
Dock House Exterior Dock Levelers can be installed in just a day, with minimal disruption to your operations.
In contrast, pit leveler installation can take weeks, requiring downtime for permitting, demolition, and concrete work.
Building Truck Impact Protection

Building truck impact protection is crucial for minimizing damage from trailers. The high-strength steel frame absorbs impact and deflects forces away from the building.
This design feature is particularly effective in reducing damage compared to direct pit-leveler hits. The impact-absorbing capabilities of the steel frame can make all the difference in protecting a building from truck damage.
Cold Vestibule
A cold vestibule is a game-changer for protecting your goods from extreme temperatures. It creates a barrier between the outside environment and the dock leveler, ensuring that trailers remain at a consistent temperature.
By enclosing the dock leveler, a cold vestibule can deliver thermal efficiencies when trailers are in position for loading. This can be especially beneficial in cold weather conditions.
An exterior door can be added to the vestibule to realize additional efficiencies, helping to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce heat loss.
Product Details
The exterior loading dock leveler is designed to provide a safe and efficient way to load and unload goods from trucks.

It typically consists of a hydraulic system, which allows the leveler to extend and retract, making it easy to navigate different height requirements.
This type of leveler is often made of durable materials, such as steel or aluminum, to withstand the harsh outdoor environment.
The exterior loading dock leveler usually has a wide range of capacities, from 6,000 to 20,000 pounds, making it suitable for various types of cargo.
It's also equipped with safety features, such as sensors and warning lights, to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth loading process.
Some exterior loading dock levelers come with additional features, like a built-in ramp or a remote control system, to enhance user experience and efficiency.
Specifications and Capacities
The exterior loading dock leveler is designed to handle heavy loads, with a capacity of up to 60,000 pounds. This is achieved through the use of heavy-duty steel and robust construction.
The leveler's rise is adjustable, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of vehicles and trailers. This feature is particularly useful for operations that need to adapt to different types of equipment.
The leveler's platform is made of durable steel, providing a stable and secure surface for loading and unloading goods. This is essential for ensuring the safety of workers and the integrity of the goods being transported.
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Capacities

The capacities of a device are just as important as its specifications.
A standard laptop can hold up to 16 gigabytes of RAM, which is more than enough for most users.
The storage capacity of a smartphone can range from 128 gigabytes to 1 terabyte.
A typical desktop computer can have a hard drive capacity of 1 terabyte.
The battery life of a portable charger can last up to 24 hours.
Most tablets have a display size between 7 and 13 inches.
A standard microwave oven has a cooking capacity of 1 cubic foot.
Steel Gauge and Thickness
The steel gauge and thickness of our equipment vary depending on the model and capacity. For Models FM/PE/PP 20,000 lb. capacity, the lip, mid plate, and back plate are all 3/8 in.
The lip and mid plate are 1/2 in. for models with higher capacities. The back plate is 3/8 in for models FM/PE/PP 25,000 lb. capacity.
The lip, mid plate, and back plate are all 1/2" for models FM/PE/PP 30,000 lb. capacity.
Edge and Approach

On the FM-0648, the lip, mid plate, and back plate are all 1/4 in. thick, which is a standard specification for many exterior loading dock levelers.
The approach ramp on the FM-0648 works with the edge of dock RAMP-2 or RAMP-4, making it a versatile option for different loading dock configurations.
These details highlight the importance of considering the specific requirements of your loading dock when selecting an exterior loading dock leveler.
FM-BAR Diameter with Edge Leveler
The FM-BAR is an essential component when using an edge dock leveler. The diameter of the FM-BAR is approximately 1 5/16".
If you're planning to install an edge dock leveler, you'll need to consider the size of the FM-BAR. It would take approximately 25 strokes to complete the installation.
Using an edge dock leveler can be a great way to improve the efficiency of your warehouse operations. The FM-BAR is a key part of this process, and understanding its dimensions is crucial for a smooth installation.
RAMP-2/4 Edge Approach

The RAMP-2/4 Edge Approach is a crucial component of the edge of dock leveler system. It's designed to work seamlessly with the FM-0648 model, where the lip, mid plate, and back plate are all 1/4 inch thick.
The RAMP-2/4 Edge Approach is a vital part of the system, ensuring smooth and safe operation. You can count on it to provide a reliable and efficient way to load and unload goods.
One of the key benefits of the RAMP-2/4 Edge Approach is its compatibility with the FM-0648 model. This means that you can easily integrate it into your existing system, without worrying about compatibility issues.
The RAMP-2/4 Edge Approach is designed to work in harmony with the edge of dock leveler system, providing a seamless and efficient loading and unloading experience.
Truck
Protecting your building from truck damage is crucial, and a high-strength steel frame can absorb impact and deflect forces away from the building, minimizing damage from trailers.
The high-strength steel frame is particularly effective against direct pit-leveler hits, which can be devastating to a building.
Truck dock levelers are designed to correct the height differences between the truck and loading docks or platforms. They can compensate for 5″ above or below dock levels with ease.
These durable products are built to handle heavy loads, with some models designed to handle 20,000-30,000 lbs.
Sources
- https://dockzilla.com/products/dock-levelers/exterior-loading-dock-leveler/
- https://dockzilla.com/products/dock-levelers/dock-house/
- https://www.masterwellhk.com/Customized-Sizes-Exterior-Industrial-Loading-Dock-Leveler-pd90735036.html
- https://the-ramp-site.com/loading-dock-plates-and-other-dock-equipment/edge-of-dock/
- https://www.vestil.com/product.php
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