Dock Levelers — Hydraulic, Mechanical & Air Powered

A dock plate is a simple, portable flat metal plate manually placed to bridge small gaps between dock and trailer. A dock leveler is a permanently installed, adjustable platform — available in mechanical or hydraulic operation — that accommodates a wider range of truck heights, supports heavier loads, and provides a safer working surface for powered material handling equipment like forklifts.

Dock leveler costs vary depending on type, capacity, and configuration. Mechanical edge-of-dock levelers are generally the most economical option, while hydraulic pit-style levelers carry a higher upfront cost but offer greater ease of use and durability for high-volume operations. Pricing is available on request — contact us to receive a quote tailored to your facility's requirements.

Dock leveler capacity should be matched to the heaviest loaded forklift or pallet jack that will use it, not just the product weight. Available capacities range from 20,000 lbs to 80,000 lbs and above. For high-volume or heavy-duty applications, a higher cycle-count rated unit is recommended. Our team can assist with capacity matching based on your equipment and operational frequency.

Mechanical dock levelers use springs or counterweights and are activated by a pull chain or lever — they are cost-effective and reliable for lower-frequency dock operations. Hydraulic dock levelers use a powered system activated by a push button, offering smoother operation, greater precision, and less physical effort, making them ideal for high-traffic distribution centers and warehouses.

Yes. Edge-of-dock levelers are specifically designed for retrofit installations in older buildings that lack pit infrastructure. They mount directly to the face of the dock door opening, offering a cost-effective upgrade path for facilities that cannot accommodate full pit excavation. They are available in both mechanical and hydraulic configurations.

Regular preventative maintenance is essential to keep dock levelers operating safely and extend their service life. This includes inspection of mechanical springs, hydraulic fluid levels and cylinders, lip hinge pins, deck surface, and safety legs. Storage Products Company offers preventative maintenance programs based on factory-recommended procedures, as well as equipment inspections and repair services for damaged components.