Dock plates have flat surface with embossed diamond-like patterns. These are usually made with aluminum and doesn’t have curb edges.
Dock plates and boards are portable devices that are used to connect the gap between the truck and the dock or the warehouse floor. These devices are very similar that is why dock plates are often mistaken as dock boards and vice versa.
Dock plates and boards also have embossed diamond-shape patterned surface to prevent slip up and accidents. Both devices also feature locking T-bar leg, safety threads, lifting chains and safety strips.
Although very similar, there are some basic differences between dock plates and dock boards. First is their make. Dock plates are usually made with aluminum for the perfect combination of portability and durability. This is the reason why dock plates are best used for lighter loads, such as when you used dollies and carts to carry your supplies. Dock boards on the other hand are made with steel, which makes it ideal for heavier industrial applications. Steel dock boards are durable enough to handle motorized equipment like forklifts and pallet trucks. Another difference is their construction. Dock plates generally are flat unlike dock boards which have curb and welded edges.
Most favored manufacturers of dock plates and dock boards are BLUFF, Eagle and VESTIL.