Hinged lip standard dock leveler
Efficient levelling solution for loading bays with or without a pit
Our hydraulic hinged lip dock leveller for loading bays is designed as an articulated bridging system that precisely compensates for the height difference between the loading bay and the vehicle, allowing the smooth passage of forklifts.
Its tilting hydraulic system and hinged lip ensure accurate adaptation to truck bodies, improving stability during loading and unloading operations.
Operation and use of a hinged lip dock leveller
The operation of standard hinged lip dock leveller for loading bays is designed to be carried out by a single operator from the control panel.
1
Vehicle positioning
The truck comes into contact with the protective buffers; the operator visually checks the alignment with the bridge plate from inside the building.
2
Platform raising and lip deployment
Press the “Start” button on the control panel to raise the leveller. Once it reaches its maximum height, the lip will extend automatically.
3
Settling and floating position
Once the lip has extended, release the “Start” button to begin lowering the platform, which will descend smoothly until the lip rests on the truck trailer.
4
Safe load transition
Pallet trucks can move across without impact.
5
Return to rest position
After the operation, press the “Start” button again to raise the dock leveller platform. On this occasion, the lip will fold automatically. Release the button and the dock leveller will return to its initial position.
Benefits and operational return
Improves manoeuvre safety
Creates a more stable transit surface, reducing the risk of impacts, falls and damage during operation.
Increases loading area productivity and operational efficiency
By making the manoeuvre smoother and more efficient, waiting times are reduced and a higher volume of operations can be handled.
Reduces operator effort
Especially in the case of a hydraulic leveller, the hinged lip deploys easily, making the operation more convenient.
Protects goods and handling equipment
A more even transition prevents sudden impacts on forklifts, pallet trucks and delicate loads.
Optimises overall warehouse performance
Improves goods flow and helps the entire logistics chain operate in a more orderly and efficient manner.
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Frequently asked questions
Difference between hinged-lip and telescopic dock leveller?
The main difference is that the folding lip leveler deploys a fixed-length articulated lip, while the telescopic lip leveler extends a retractable lip that allows for more precise support and greater reach over the vehicle bed.
Can it be installed on an existing loading bay?
Yes, in many cases it can be installed on an existing loading bay, provided that the civil works and available space allow the pit, frame or mounting system to be properly adapted. Alapont can manufacture made-to-measure solutions to suit existing pits, avoiding the need for additional civil works.
What type of vehicles is this leveller suitable for?
It is suitable for loading bays handling trucks and goods vehicles with relatively standard or similar heights and stable operating conditions. It is a widely used solution where the fleet does not present major height variations and a simple, robust and reliable manoeuvre is required. This is the most common and widely used model.
Can it be used with both trucks and vans?
Yes, it can be used with trucks and, in some cases, with vans, although it is best suited to standard goods vehicles. Where operations involve very different vehicle types or require more precise positioning, a telescopic-lip dock leveller, a vertical dock leveller or other specific solutions for mixed operations are often considered.
What maximum working slope does it allow?
Dock levellers allow a working range that varies from +250 mm to +370 mm, depending on the size of the leveller, and -340 mm in the downward direction.
What is the minimum lip overlap required on the vehicle?
For safety reasons, the lip must rest correctly on the vehicle bed and, as a general preventive guideline, a minimum overlap of 100 mm is recommended. This adequate support is essential to prevent unsafe movement, loss of contact or improper stress during loading and unloading.
How much does a hinged-lip dock leveller cost?
The price varies according to the dimensions, load capacity, type of installation, finishes and civil works requirements, so there is usually no single fixed price applicable to all cases. In general, it is considered a competitive solution for standard operations, especially where a balance between performance, robustness and cost is required.
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