Ramping up recovery

A poor logistics infrastructure can lead to bottlenecks in production and despatch, with its attendant cost implications, while it can encourage reckless and unsafe behaviour as warehouse operators are forced to load or unload without proper equipment in place.

While the optimum long-term solution for any manufacturer is to invest in dedicated loading facilities, this is not always an option. "Such significant capital investment is beyond many SMEs and may not even be appropriate, depending on the scale of expected growth,” John Meale, MD of Thorworld Industries points out.

"Furthermore, even when a dedicated loading bay can be justified, short-term solutions must still be considered to maintain efficiency until the installation process is complete.”

It is here that a mobile yardramp can make a significant difference, providing an immediate solution to increase efficiency, enhance safety and save money during vehicle loading and unloading.

Yardramps can be put into position within minutes, offering an immediate means for forklifts to convey goods in and out of trailers. As they are moveable, manufacturers do not have to commit to a fixed position; each yardramp features a built-in towing mechanism for quickly and easily moving the ramp into position. Similarly, speed of set-up is rapid, thanks to a hand-operated hydraulic pump to allow the ramp to be raised up to the required height.

Safety is another aspect where yardramps can make a difference.  With a steel superstructure for maximum strength, 1.8m of safety chain on each side to secure the ramp to the vehicle or dock, thus helping to eradicate potentially dangerous vehicle creep, and a serrated open grid deck to ensure positive traction in all weather conditions, operators have peace of mind that forklifts can travel up and down the ramp without fear of accident. 

Yardramps can be rented as well as purchased outright, making them a strong choice for short-term needs such as increased production or where existing facilities cannot be used temporarily. Thorworld’s RentARamp resource allows customers who may not want the capital outlay associated with buying a ramp to hire one instead. A sale or return option enables them to spread the cost of ownership or simply continue to hire.

Thorworld offers three standard models – Super Deluxe, Deluxe and Thrifty – to suit differing levels of workload and environment.  In addition, bespoke models can be supplied to meet individual requirements, in combination with modular loading dock facilities where required. Service and maintenance back-up is available to ensure that the ramps are always kept in prime operating condition, together with on-site training.