Guide to Yard Ramps

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Structural Features - Capacity - Usable Width - Length - Specs Chart - Offloading Instructions

STEEL YARD RAMP
• All steel welded construction ramps
• Capacity from 16,000 to 60,000 pounds
• Double-action hydraulic pump

Yard ramps from Handi-Ramp include many standard features and options enabling you to get the yard ramp that best suits your needs. Use these guidelines to easily determine the most efficient and effective ramp for your application.

A Handi-Ramp yard ramp is easily moved into position at trailers, railcars or loading docks. The operator utilizes a self-contained, double-acting hydraulic pump to adjust the ramp unit to the proper position. In minutes you are ready to load or unload freight.

Solid 18" rubber tires facilitate easy positioning and towing. Open serrated steel grating provides excellent forklift traction while preventing build-up of snow, water, and other debris.

Beveled approach assures a smooth transition. For truck-to-ground or railcar-to-ground loading applications choose a 36' unit including a level off. Choose a 30' straight design for quick loading dock-to-ground applications.

Structural Features of Yard Ramps

Hydraulic Pump

Two hydraulic cylinders allow smooth and quick rising of ramp's front lip to desired height. Open release valve to safely lower unit into place. Internally mounted pump is protected from damage.

Steel Box

Tubular steel box undercarriage assembly. 18" wheels with solid rubber, pneumatic profile for easy positioning. For stationary docks, choose 30' or 36' without wheel assembly.

Serrated grating

Serrated grating provides excellent forklift traction. Open design prevents buildup of water and debris. Lower end approach plate gives maximum support and smooth transition on to ramp.

Safety Chains

Standard safety chains hold yard ramp securely to trailer or dock.

Ramp Clamp

The optional ramp clamp assists operator in moving the yard ramp over short distances. Forklift inserts into swiveling lift loop and is secured by locking device.

Tow Bar

The optional tow bar features a fast-locking, easy hook-up to the yard ramp and makes towing over long distances practical.

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Yard Ramp Sizing Guidelines Capacity Correct yard ramp capacity is crucial to the safety of your drivers and the protection of loads being moved. In order to determine the appropriate capacity of the yard ramp, find the capacity of your forklift. This information can be found on the forklift itself (check to the right of the seat or to the right of the steering wheel) or the User's Manual. Multiply the forklift capacity by three (3) to determine optimal yard ramp. Yard ramp capacity must exceed 3x the capacity of your forklift. Usable Width Yard ramps are available in 70" and 84" ramp widths. The usable ramp width should be at least 15" wider than the widest equipment to be used on the ramp. For railcar use, select the ramp width wide enough to prevent the forklift from hitting the ramp curbs as it turns into the railcar. Consult your forklift manual for radius turning capabilities. Measure railcar door openings to make sure the yard ramp will fit the opening. return to top of page

Length Straight 30' Length This type is used primarily for ground to dock or ground to trailer applications where no level-off is required.

Level-Off 36' Length A six-foot level off at the upper end of the ramp facilitates easier forklift maneuverability into truck and railcars. This is particularly important in handling pallets next to openings. The 36' with level-off is most popular where end loading or roof clearance is required from trailer or railcar and with refrigerated equipment.
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Specifications Chart

Capacity	Length	Width	Approx Weight
16,000 lbs	30'	70"	4159 lbs
	30'	84"	4964 lbs
	36'	70"	5102 lbs
	36'	84"	5868 lbs

20,000 lbs	30'	70"	4384 lbs
	30'	84"	5189 lbs
	36'	70"	5327 lbs
	36'	84"	6048 lbs

25,000 lbs	30'	70"	4780 lbs
	30'	84"	5605 lbs
	36'	70"	5762 lbs
	36'	84"	6544 lbs

30,000 lbs	30'	70"	5030 lbs
	30'	84"	5905 lbs
	36'	70"	6020 lbs
	36'	84"	6844 lbs

Ramp Type	30' Straight	36' L w/6' Level-Off
Wheel Diameter	18"	18"
Raised Lip Height	78"	69"
Lowered Lip Height	37"	35"
% of Grade at 50" Height	14%	14%
Curb Heights	8"	8"
Carrier End tread plate	30" reinforced apron with 15" lip	30" reinforced apron with 15" lip

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Offloading Instructions

Special considerations must be taken when moving a yard ramp. For your convenience, we have provided a PDF including Offloading Instructions, General Operating Instructions, Maintenance Information and Hydraulic System Notes. Click here to download the PDF - Offloading Instructions (PDF).

Securing Yard Ramp Undercarriage When Shipping
The undercarriage system is tied to keep the wheels up close to the underside of the ramp so that the wheels do not move outward during transport. It also assist in keeping the wheels tucked under when unloading and set up the ramp for use. To tie the undercarriage, simply cut a piece of tin wire or any reliable strap and wrap around one of the axle and hub then through the grating and tie a knot on the top side of the ramp. When unloading remove the strap or wire after the ramp unit is in its ready to use position.

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