Container ramps are aimed to make loading and unloading items safer. Cargo container thresholds are approximately 6 inches from the ground without blocking under a container, which can make it more difficult to get heavy items in and out of the container.
Lifting loads can cause unnecessary short- or long- term injuries. Some loads are on wheels and are simply too heavy to lift into a container. Using a ramp decreases the likelihood of injuries to occur, reduces health risks related to lifting heavy objects and lowers the risk for loads falling or spilling.
Cement ramp made with indentations for the lockrods so the doors can open
There are pros and cons to both options. Here are some things to consider when trying to decide the best route to go.
Pros
Easy to use
Don’t have to worry about anyone getting hurt putting it in place
No lip – easy to roll right into the container
Cons
Hard to build to work well. The lockrods that lock the door shut extend down beyond the bottom of the door, so you need to make allowances for that. Most people remove one set of lockrods and then make indentations in ramp for allow for the lockrods.
You cannot move your container around after you build a permanent ramp.
Only works with one container
Various portable ramps
Pros
Can work with multiple containers
Many different options available
Generally no need to customize anything
Cons
Must consider the weight of the container and who will be moving it around
Must train employees to use the ramp safely
Must store the ramp in or out of the container
Ramps come in a variety of sizes and styles. To figure out the best option for you, here are some questions to ask yourself:
What is the weight limit you will need for the container?
Do you need a smooth rolling surface for managing a pallet jack with small wheels or are you moving in larger, heartier wheels that can handle a variety of surfaces?
Will the ramp be used in a variety of different kinds of weather? Rain and snow can make a ramp very slippery.
Who will be using the ramp? Will the weight of the ramp be an issue?
Will the ramp be stored in the container, along side it, or somewhere further away? You may want to consider something lighter if the ramp will be moving around a lot.
Ramps come in various lengths with different weight limits. They come in different surfaces: a grit coat surface, aluminum curb, punch plate or wedge ramp. We have listed different options below including their specs so you can check through what will work best for you.
The right ramp for you really depends on your situation, who will use it and what you want to put into it. At the end of the day, if you can get things in and out of your container safely and easily, that is all that matters.
Visit our Ramps page and call us! We would love to help you pick the right ramp for you. Depending on the specific ramp, pricing will vary.