Ramps for vans and cars are essential pieces of equipment for loading and unloading work vans. If you are transporting heavy equipment, ramps help to ease the burden of weight. They are also a useful extension for van racking solutions.
But what different types of ramps are available and why do you need them? This article explores five types of ramps that can enhance your business. If you deliver goods, use heavy machinery or transport disabled people, the types of ramps you need are important.
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Heavy-Duty Van Ramps
Heavy-duty ramps are needed for businesses that are loading heavy equipment. The types of ramps are portable and typically support weights from between 680kg to 2000 kg. They are ideal for loading and unloading flight cases, heavy-duty machinery and furniture.
Heavy-duty ramps fasten to the back of your vehicle. However, they can be removed and stored in the back of your van as opposed to folding ramps. These types of ramps are usually made from aluminium – which gives you the same strength as steel but is much lighter to manoeuvre.
You’ll also find heavy-duty ramps that have raised edges. This provides more safety by preventing items from spilling over the edge. We also recommend investing in heavy-duty ramps that have non-slip surfaces.
Other useful features to look out for are end caps that tightly secure the ramp whilst in use. Some types of heavy-duty ramps also have a carabiner clip fitted with a steel chain that hooks onto the loading bed. This gives you extra support for stability.
Yard Ramps
Yard ramps are a type of heavy-duty ramp but are generally made of steel rather than aluminium. They can support weights of up to 15,000 kg so are ideal for loading heavy containers and machinery safely and quickly.
These types of ramps are fitted with hydraulic motors that allow you to adjust the load height easily. An important feature to look out for on yard ramps is a slight gradient where the loading platform meets the ground. This feature keeps the lip of the ramp to a minimum and makes it easier for you to either wheel or push cargo onto the ramp.
Threshold Loading Ramp
Also known as Channel Ramps, Threshold Loading Ramps are designed for loading equipment with wheels such as wheelchairs, trolleys and garden machinery. They are also ideal for pushing containers into the cargo area of a mobile workshop.
These types of car ramps have non-slip surfaces to help the tyres grip. They are also detachable and can easily be stored against the side of the van or in false floor drawers.
Different Types of Ramps That Fold
Standard Folding Ramps
Standard folding ramps are the most commonly used type of car ramp. They are suitable for most situations that do not exceed the weight limitations for standard loading ramps. The maximum weight capacity for standard folding ramps is up to 1000kg.
These types of ramps are generally used for granting disabled access, farmers, caterers and businesses that need to load light machinery. Folding ramps are easier to store because the size can be halved by folding it. Most folding ramps also have a handle on the side which makes it easier to lift it into the van or carry it to another location.
Fixed Folding Ramps
Fixed folding ramps offer the same features and benefits as standard folding ramps. The difference is they can be attached to the back of your vehicle and folded into the back for quick and easy storage.
The compact models are lightweight and ergonomically efficient. They take less time to set up and store after use which is the benefit they have over other types of ramps. However, they need a designated floor space next to the door. Unlike standard folding ramps, they can not be conveniently stored in drawers or along the side of your van behind a shelf or rack.
