What to Look for in a Mobile Yard Ramp

Choosing the right mobile yard ramp for your business is crucial, as it directly impacts the safety and efficiency of loading and unloading operations. At Chase Equipment, we’ve been manufacturing mobile yard ramps in the UK for over 45 years, and we’ve seen what separates a quality ramp from a subpar one. Here’s our guide on what to look for when investing in a yard ramp.

1. CE Marking and Load Testing Standards

Safety comes first. While there isn’t a British Standard specific to mobile yard ramps, Chase Equipment applies the BS EN 1398 standard (typically used for dock levellers) for load testing. This ensures our ramps can handle the stated load capacity. We test each ramp with both a dynamic load factor and a safety margin, ensuring it meets and exceeds the demands of everyday use.

2. Safe and Practical Bottom Design

Some ramps feature fold-down flaps at the base, which can be heavy and dangerous if mishandled. We’ve opted for a safer design that avoids heavy flaps altogether, reducing both the risk of injury and the effort required to move the ramp.

3. Ease of Movement

A quality yard ramp should be easy to manoeuvre with a one-person operation. Chase Equipment ramps come with a universal push/pull attachment that is permanently affixed, allowing simple movement without the strain of manual handling.

4. Integrated Side Guards

Strong sides are essential for forklift safety, especially in busy operations. Integrated sides help prevent accidents by keeping the forklift within the ramp, even if it occasionally brushes against the sides.

5. Optimal Level Section

For 95% of our customers,, a 1.8m level section at the top of the ramp works best, allowing forklifts to transition smoothly onto trailers or containers. If your operation requires more space, we offer custom ramps with extended level sections, but we ensure the gradient remains manageable by lengthening the overall ramp.

6. Durable Attachment Chains

Attachment chains are crucial for the safe use of a ramp, so it’s important to choose one with sturdy chain links and hooks. For example, our ramps come equipped with a secure tensioning system to keep the ramp firmly in place during use.

7. Suitable Width

Our ramps feature a usable width of over 2.2m, making it easy to access the entire width of a container or trailer. This extra width ensures that the back row of the container can be loaded and unloaded with ease and safety.

8. Comprehensive Support and Service

It’s essential to work with a supplier who provides ongoing support and maintenance. At Chase Equipment, we offer servicing, repair, and replacement options, including PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) inspections. This ensures that your ramp remains in top condition and compliant with legal standards.

9. Operator Training

Operating a yard ramp requires skill and knowledge. Chase Equipment provides detailed Operation and Maintenance (O&M) manuals, along with training by experienced engineers, so your team can use the ramp safely and effectively.

When you invest in a yard ramp, consider the quality, safety features, and support services. With a Chase Equipment ramp, you can be assured of a reliable, British-made product built to handle the toughest tasks. Please feel free to contact us by filling out this form or call us on 01902 675 635.