Loading docks are the areas of buildings designated for the loading and unloading of shipments brought to or taken from the facility by distribution and delivery vehicles. They are typically found in industrial and commercial buildings, where they feature a shipping and receiving area for loading and unloading operations, a staging area for shipment preparation and unpacking operations, and a management area for dock supervisors and managers.

The height of a loading dock varies from facility to facility. The main factor that influences it is the average load height. When calculating this number, it is important to keep in mind that truck containers can add up to 200 mm to the height of the load during loading and unloading operations.

Loading Dock Height Standards

​​Within North American facilities, the standard dock height is 48 in. However, dock heights typically range from 48 in. (120 cm) to 52 in. (130 cm), and heights of up to 55 in. (140 cm) are not uncommon. Facilities that employ ​​unique trailer configurations may utilize different dock heights to accommodate their shipment containers.

For reference, the heights of some of the typical distribution and delivery methods are as follows:

• Box and straight trucks: 40 to 50 in.
• Overseas shipping containers: 48 in.
• Standard 53-foot trailers: 52+ in.

Factors Related to Loading Dock Heights

Ensuring a loading dock is at the proper height is critical to facilitating the smooth transfer of products between the facility and the truck. As such, when designing the dock, keep in mind the following:

• Average and range of truck bed heights. As indicated previously, the average height of loads is important to determining proper loading dock height. Additionally, it is essential to keep in mind the lowest and highest truck bed heights that may appear to ensure the dock can accommodate all shipping and receiving needs.
• Material handling equipment capabilities. For trucks and trailers not perfectly level with the dock, material handling equipment facilitates loading and unloading operations. The equipment employed should be able to accommodate any gap or height difference. A gas-powered fork truck has a maximum grade capability of 15%, while an electric lift truck has a grade capability of only 10%. The maximum grade capability of pallet jacks varies from 3% for a standard pallet jack and 7% for an electric pallet jack.
• Incline and decline. ​Minimizing the incline and decline approach during loading and unloading operations makes the transfer of material easier and safer. It also prolongs the life of the material handling equipment and the dock leveler.

Contact the Loading Dock Equipment Experts at ABC Docks Today

Typical loading dock heights range from 48 to 52 in, but, depending on the needs of the facility, they may be as high as 55 inches. Determining which height is appropriate for a facility requires careful evaluation of several factors, including trucks and trailers received, material handling equipment employed, and the natural incline or decline of the loading dock area. Considering all of these elements can be challenging, but the ABC Docks experts are here to help.

At ABC Docks, we offer a broad selection of loading dock equipment. Equipped with years of industry experience, our team of experts has the knowledge and skill to ensure that every customer’s loading dock fully meets the needs of their facility. For more information on loading dock heights or assistance determining the proper height and equipment for your dock area, contact us or request a quote today.