The Ultimate Guide to Courtyard ramps: Types, Benefits, and Selection Tips

Yard ramps are indispensable tools in the logistics, warehousing and construction industries, serving as a bridge between loading docks and trucks or trailers. Whether you need to load heavy machinery, pallets or vehicles, a carefully selected yard ramp can simplify operations, reduce costs and enhance workplace safety. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about yard ramps – from types and benefits to key purchasing considerations.

What is a courtyard ramp?
Yard ramps (or terminal ramps) are portable or fixed inclined platforms designed to connect ground areas to elevated surfaces, such as truck or loading terminals. These ramps are made of durable materials such as steel or aluminium, enabling forklifts, pallet jacks and other equipment to move goods effectively without the need for permanent infrastructure changes. They are widely used in:

Warehouse

Distribution center

Construction site

Manufacturing plant

Types of yard ramps: Which one suits your needs?
Portable garden ramp
Portable ramps are the ideal choice for enterprises that require flexibility. They have wheels or casters for easy relocation and are highly suitable for multi-dock operations or outdoor use.

Most suitable for: temporary locations, uneven terrain or frequent repositioning.

Portable garden ramps offer unparalleled versatility for dynamic workspaces.

2. Heavy-duty yard ramps
To handle extreme weights (up to 100,000 pounds), heavy ramps are composed of steel bars and anti-slip surfaces. They are usually used in industrial environments.

Most suitable for: loading construction equipment, large machinery, or bulk cargo.

3. Adjustable courtyard ramp
These ramps are equipped with hydraulic or mechanical height adjustments to suit different truck lathe heights.

Five benefits of using a courtyard ramp
Save costs – avoid expensive terminal modifications.

Improve efficiency – Reduce loading/unloading time by 30-50%.

Enhanced safety – Anti-slip surfaces and guardrails reduce accidents.

Spatial optimization – No permanent structure required.

Versatility – Compatible with forklifts, pallet jacks and trolleys.

How to Choose the Right Courtyard Ramp: 4 Key Factors
1. Load-bearing capacity
Match the maximum load capacity of the ramp with the heaviest equipment. For example:

Lightweight: 10,000-20,000 pounds

Heavy: 50,000-100,000 pounds

2. Slope dimension
Length: Longer ramps reduce the steepness of the slope, making climbing safer.

Width: Make sure it fits your device (standard: 60-84 inches).

3. Surface compatibility
Check whether the ramp is working on gravel, concrete or asphalt. Portable ramps usually include stabilizing plates for uneven ground surfaces.

4. Flow characteristics
For frequent movement, give priority to ramps with wheels, drag rods or forklift bags.

Yard ramp safety: An OSHA-approved practice
To prevent workplace injuries, please follow the following guidelines:

Daily inspection: Check for cracks, loose bolts or surface damage.

Firm anchoring: Use stabilizers or dock locks to prevent displacement.