The Basics of Loading Dock Bumpers

What is a Loading Dock Bumper?

A loading dock bumper is an apparatus that is attached to a loading dock to
absorb the impact of a truck/trailer and provide protection to the building,
loading dock, trailer, and trailer materials. An approaching truck/trailer can
generate up to 300,000 lbs. of impact force during the load-in and load-out
process, although this may not cause major damage initially, over time
continuous impact will lead to damage that can become dangerous if not
addressed.

When developing your facility protection plan, choosing the right loading
dock bumper can help you avoid building, loading dock and vehicle
damage, expensive repairs, and unnecessary downtime. Although the goal
of all loading dock bumpers is protection, that does not mean that all
loading dock bumpers are made equal. To help you find the right loading
dock bumper solution we have compiled information on the most common types of loading dock bumpers.

Factors That Affect Loading Dock Bumper Selection

• Dock height
• Dock approach
• Truck bed heights being serviced
• Truck/Trailer traffic volume per shift - Light: 1-3, Moderate: 4-8, Heavy: Over 8 trucks
• Dock equipment to be used (dock leveler or portable plate)

Types of Loading Dock Bumpers

Molded

If damage to walls, loading docks or trailers is a concern in a light traffic
facility, then you should consider a molded loading dock bumper.

• Ideal for light traffic loading docks with lower intensity applications.
• Usually made from rubber.
• Do not rust or warp.

Laminated

If damage to walls, loading docks or trailers is a concern in a low to medium
traffic facility, then you should consider laminated loading dock bumpers.

• Ideal for low to medium traffic loading docks.
• Can provide more thickness, height, and length than a molded loading dock bumper.
• Can be used for interior wall protection.

Steel Face

If damage to walls, loading docks or trailers is a concern in a medium to
high traffic facility with frequent, heavy-duty applications, then you should
consider a steel face loading dock bumper.

• Ideal for heavy-duty, high traffic and frequent impact applications.
• The steel plate preserves the rubber from wear and tear.
• More resistant to wear compared to molded and laminated loading dock bumpers.

Whether you work in a high or low traffic facility, loading dock bumpers
need to be part of your facility protection plan. The right loading dock
bumper can help you avoid loading dock, trailer, and building damage as
well as, material damage or loss, downtime, and delays.

Not sure what loading dock bumper is right for you?

Use the Loading Dock Bumper Selection Guide to help determine what loading dock bumper solution is best for you.