Buyer Guide
Loading Dock Equipment Buyer Guide
A practical guide to choosing dock levelers, vehicle restraints, and dock bumpers — by capacity, size, power, and environment.
How to Choose a Dock Leveler
Choose by four factors: capacity (your heaviest forklift plus load), platform size (your dock pit and truck bed width), power source (electrical availability), and operating frequency (daily volume).
| Type | Operation | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic | Push-button, electro-hydraulic | 12–16 t | High-volume, 24/7 docks |
| Mechanical | Pull-chain, spring-assisted, no power | 12–16 t | Low-frequency, no-electricity docks |
| Edge-of-Dock | Manual or hydraulic assist, no pit | 20–30 k lb | Retrofits, space-constrained docks |
Vehicle Restraints: Why They Matter
Trailer creep, early departure, and landing-gear collapse are the most common — and most dangerous — loading dock accidents. A rotary hook restraint engages the truck's ICC bar and locks it in place, and can be interlocked with the dock leveler so the leveler cannot operate until the truck is secured.
The REDA THM-800 covers ICC bars 230–762 mm above ground for mixed fleets; the THM-600 covers 254–610 mm for standardized operations. Both hold up to 14,500 kg (32,000 lb).
Dock Bumpers: Sizing
A dock bumper absorbs truck impact and protects both the dock structure and the vehicle. Size it so the bumper projects far enough to contact the truck before the dock edge. REDA manufactures 50+ standard sizes in high-resilience natural rubber on a Q235 steel frame, plus any custom dimension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What capacity dock leveler do I need?
Match the leveler to your heaviest forklift + load combination. Most docks use a 12,000–16,000 kg (25,000–35,000 lb) capacity. REDA standard dock levelers are rated 12–16 t, and custom capacities are available on request.
What is the difference between hydraulic and mechanical dock levelers?
Hydraulic levelers are push-button operated and powered by an electric power unit — best for high-volume docks. Mechanical levelers use a pull-chain and spring assist, need no electricity, and cost less to own — best for low-frequency or power-constrained docks.
Do I need a vehicle restraint?
Yes, if safety is a priority. A vehicle restraint locks the truck's ICC bar to the dock and prevents trailer creep and early departure — the leading cause of dock accidents. REDA THM-800 and THM-600 restraints interlock with the dock leveler for fail-safe operation.
How do I size a dock bumper?
The bumper must project far enough to contact the truck before the dock structure. Standard sizes range from 150–500 mm (H) × 200–400 mm (W) × 100–300 mm (D). REDA offers 50+ standard sizes plus custom dimensions.
What is the typical lead time?
Standard models ship in 15–30 days. Custom orders take 30–45 days. Container loading and shipping documentation are included.
Still Not Sure Which Equipment You Need?
Tell us your dock pit dimensions, truck types, and load — our engineers will recommend the right models.