Container Ramp for Forklifts - Loading and Unloading Cargo from Containers

In short: A container ramp is a sturdy metal structure that bridges the warehouse floor and a sea container's doorway when a dock leveller isn't available. The ramp must withstand the load you'll actually be driving over it with: a hand pallet truck, electric forklift, or heavier forklift.

Why is a ramp needed?

The floor height of sea containers usually doesn't match the warehouse loading platform. Without a dock leveller, there's a step and gap between the container and the floor that can't be crossed with a load. A ramp fills that gap and provides a smooth driving surface into and out of the container.

What to pay attention to when choosing?

• Load capacity: ramps are designed for different loads. Many ramps are meant for hand pallet trucks and won't withstand a forklift's weight. Check that the ramp is rated for the exact machine you'll be driving on it.
• Width: the ramp must match the width of the container doorway and be wide enough that the wheels stay firmly on the ramp, not on its edge.
• Height difference: the ramp must cover the actual height difference between the warehouse floor and the container, too steep a slope is dangerous and impossible to cross with a heavy load.
• Fixing and slip resistance: the ramp must be secured so it doesn't shift under the container's heavy load, and the driving surface must not become slippery when wet.

Common mistakes

• Overestimating the ramp's capacity: a ramp meant for light hand-cart equipment won't withstand a forklift.
• Unsecured ramp: under a heavy load, the ramp shifts easily if it isn't locked to the container's edge.
• Wrong slope: too steep a ramp makes driving with a load unstable, especially with heavy or tall loads.

Relation to tipping containers

If loading involves bulk or liquid material transported in containers, also look at tipping containers, which allow the contents to be emptied in a controlled way.

You'll find all forklift attachments in our container ramp range. Send us the height difference between the warehouse and container, and the load you'll be driving with, and we'll recommend the right model. Ask us via our contact page.