Dock Board

Step 1. Determine the height differential (the vertical distance from your dock floor to the truck floor).
Highest Truck Height T We typically recommend using 55" for the T, since 55" is the maximum height for most trailers. On refrigerated or container trailers use 59".
Dock Height D (You must measure this). Height Differential (Maximum) H H is equal to T minus D
		Step 2: To determine width, add 12" to the widest load.
		Width Bluff recommends a minimum product width of 12" to 18" wider than the overall width of the vehicle or pallet used. For improved end loading, you may consider increasing board width, as shown in diagram.
Step 3: Determine the capacity you will require.
Capacity Notes: Stackers and other narrow aisle loaders should not be used on a dockboard. Paper roll clamp and multi-shift loading add 5,000 pounds to the board capacity. Capacity rated for single-shift operation at a 3 mile per hour maximum rate of travel. For all railroad applications, we require a fully completed railboard worksheet.
		Step 4: The height differential you have determined will decide the length you need.
		Length To determine the proper length of a dockboard/plate, three items are required: Dock height (D) Height of highest truck (T) Type of loading equipment used