Maximum Ramp Slope For Forklift Use

Do you know what the maximum ramp incline for forklift use is to ensure that you are following OSHA forklift regulations? A ramp, slope or incline is defined as an angle that exceeds 10% or approximately one-foot rise for every ten feet of ramp or incline. OSHA 1910.178(n)(7). OSHA addresses guidelines for forklift inclines, slopes or ramps that must be followed whenever a powered industrial truck is on a Dock Ramp or Yard Ramp.

Forktruck gradeability ratings are supplied by the manufacturer specific to the make and model of each machine. The supplier determines what grade the forktruck can safely climb and stop with a full capacity load.

Using forktrucks beyond their rated gradeability is not only a safety issue but can also be detrimental to maintenance and the overall life of the forktruck. Refer to the owner’s manuals and OSHA guidelines at all times and make sure your employees are updated on all training and usage guidelines.

COMMONLY QUESTIONS ASKED

Can I safely turn a forklift or lift truck on ramps and incline? 

No, a forktruck should always transverse a ramp in a straight line, no turning or stopping. Always line up prior to driving on the ramp or incline to place forks in the proper direction. Line the forktruck up parallel with the length of the ramp and drive a steady speed without stopping or changing directions.

Can I safely drive in reverse on ramps and grades? 

Yes, when traveling with a load, always drive with the load pointing up the incline or ramp. When driving in reverse, the driver’s head must be turned and facing downgrade when going down an incline. The forks will be pointing up the grade.

Will the grating provide adequate traction? 

Yes, compared to other surfaces serrated grating has numerous benefits. The open design of the grating allows for rain, snow or debris to fall through so the forktruck tires are making contact with the ramp. The serrations in the grating help to give the tire something to “bite” into and grab. This provides friction with increased traction.

How do I decrease the grade or slope of the ramp? 

Increase the length of the ramp, by increasing the horizontal dimension or length will decrease the percentage of the grade. Copperloy offers ramps in many different lengths. If a specific length is not available ask a salesperson to help with Dock-to-Ground Ramp SAR combos to fit your needs.

Forklift ramps from Copperloy are the quickest, most secure way to load and unload semi trailers and shipping containers at dock level. Yard ramps from Copperloy® beat all other versatile ramps and have earned the title as America’s Ultimate Yard Ramp.  Copperloy® supplies all the dock equipment needed to improve the productivity of your delivery docks from edge of dock levelers to dock lifts. You’ll discover ensured new and utilized dock equipment, utilized yard ramp rentals for temporary job tasks —all made in the USA at Copperloy’s manufacturing facility in Twinsburg, Ohio.

Copperloy® is the favored yard ramp of dock teams for its speed and convenience. Our versatile yard ramps establish a loading and unloading area where no dock space currently exists. In case you’re needing a yard ramp Copperloy has the products to accommodate your one of a kind requirements. With three buy choices – New, Used and Rentals accessible anyplace in the US.

Do you have questions or concerns regarding your forklift slopes, slants or grades? Contact the Copperloy team for additional information about any specific challenges or regulations. Or if you’re unsure about the weight capacity or size of the ramps you need? We’ll be happy to help you find a solution based on the weight of the equipment you utilize, the loads you carry, and the specifications of the facility you utilize.

Copperloy Forklift Ramps – America’s #1 Choice Forklift Ramp

When it comes to ensuring occupational safety for your forklift operators, it is paramount they know what the maximum ramps grade is. OSHA regulations [29 cfr 1910.178] foremost objective of this guideline is to limit the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths due to incidents involving forklifts that are operated by your employees. Employing routine maintenance, daily inspections, and proper training and certification is in your business’s best interests for the safety and health of your employees.

• Variety of models to meet your specific loading dock needs
• Steel grating for secure traction
• Weight capacities of 16,000 to 35,000 lbs.
• Forklift attachments make moving the yard ramp quick and easy

Interested in our yard ramps and want more info?

Let us know below and we will reach out with more details. Dealer pricing available.

RAMP DESIGN

Our dock ramps for forklifts are made from steel or aluminum, and they feature steel grating for reliable traction to ensure worker safety. Whether you buy used or new, our mobile ramps will provide the convenience you need to handle loads more efficiently at your facility’s loading dock.

SPECIFICATIONS

You have a choice of widths between 70, 84 or 96 inches, and capacities between 16,000 and 35,000 lbs. On our 30-foot forklift trailer ramps, the height range is between 38 and 60 inches.

FAQS

How do I know what capacity mobile ramp I need?
You can determine the capacity of ramp needed by adding together the total weight of the fork truck and the max load the fork truck carries. Our standard capacities are 16,000 lbs. and 20,000 lbs.. Larger capacities are available.

What are the sizes of the curbs on the mobile yard ramp?
The curbs on the mobile yard ramp 4″ wide and 7″ high.

How fast can I get a mobile yard ramp?
We stock our 16k and 20k mobile ramp models, which can be ready within a few days. Depending on other models, it can be one to three weeks.

Why are standard mobile yard ramps 84″ wide?
Mobile yard ramp are 84″ wide because that way we can guarantee the ramp will fit into the back of a trailer.

What is the useable width on a mobile yard ramp?
The usable width on a mobile yard ramp is 76″ in between the curbs.

Why should I purchase a Copperloy yard ramp vs. a competitor’s ramp?
Copperloy ramps are made in the USA in Twinsburg, Ohio. The undercarriage of the mobile ramp is maintenance free. The ramp only has one cylinder and one hose from the cylinder to the pump.

The pump is on the outside of the ramp, which makes it easily accessible. Copperloy uses A572-50 high strength steel on all mobile ramps. Above all, we care you get the correct product to deliver safe and efficient results for your loading and unloading needs.

Find more answers to common yard ramp questions on our yard ramp resources page or wikipedia.