Aluminum Ramps vs. Fiberglass Ramps for the Moving Industry: Which to Choose

Moving companies face a multitude of decisions regarding the equipment they use. These choices matter, as the right gear can provide a significant competitive advantage, substantial cost savings, or both. One key decision involves selecting the right type of ramp for loading and unloading trucks and vans—often coming down to a choice between aluminum ramps vs. fiberglass ramps. Which option is best, and why?

Fiberglass ramps have certain appealing qualities. They’re generally cost-effective, requiring a relatively small initial investment, and they’re lightweight, which makes them easy to handle and transport.

Another advantage often mentioned is their built-in gripping surface. While this feature is beneficial, it’s also short-lived. Fiberglass ramps must be refinished or replaced typically after just two to five years, causing the initial low price to lose its luster. This not only results in higher long-term costs, but also the inconvenience of frequent maintenance or sudden downtime, which can place a company at a disadvantage during peak business periods.

This ends up offsetting that initial low price. Not only that, but the hassle of repair or replacement is another detractor, and could leave the company unexpectedly shorthanded during a busy period.

Aluminum ramps on the other hand will last indefinitely. There’s no need for repair, and when they’re well constructed, they’ll hold up to the rigors of daily usage with ease. Additionally, many people wrongly assume that aluminum yard ramps must be far bulkier and heavier than fiberglass, but that’s actually not the case, either.

Another benefit to aluminum ramps will be the added safety features which they come equipped with. Aluminum ramps have 3-inch runoff curbs, where as fiberglass ramps often just have a 1-inch runoff, potentially leading to more accidents. Aluminum loading ramps also feature shark tooth decking, which provides a non-slip deck surface for safe operation without ever needing replacement.

While fiberglass ramps certainly have their applications, at the end of the day, the heavy workloads and demands of the moving industry are better served with an aluminum loading ramp. They offer a lower overall price of ownership, superior durability and enhanced safety features, and they’re underrated in terms of how easy they are to move around and work with.

Copperloy has been producing high quality, proudly American made aluminum ramps for more than 70 years, and they remain an industry leader today. Call the team at 800-321-4968 to learn more about their full lineup of ramps and other equipment.