Choosing the Right Loading Dock Seal and Dock Shelter for Your Business
The right selection of dock seals and dock shelters in operations ensures an effective and safe loading dock. These systems eliminate the loss of energy in warehouses by shielding them from dust, wind, and external temperatures. The type of commodity the business deals in makes dock seals and dock shelters more important. For example, food products, machinery, and electronic equipment require strict environmental control.
This blog helps you identify the common factors to consider before buying a dock seal or dock shelter.
Types of Seals
Two major types of seals are popular when selecting loading dock barriers: dock seals and dock shelters. Let’s look at how each works and which one is right for your business.
Dock Seals
Dock seals create a tighter, sealed contact between the trailer and the dock. They are designed for companies operating on standard-sized trailers. Dock seals offer excellent insulation from rain, sunlight, and other contamination such as pests. They compress tightly, eliminating the transfer of heat, which is helpful, especially in industries such as food processing and pharmaceuticals.
Dock Shelters
Dock shelters are more versatile in terms of trailer sizes. They don’t use compression to seal the trailer; they are an open-type enclosure that seals out elements such as wind, rain, or pests from getting inside the dock. Dock shelters are perfect for operations with many variations on trailer sizes as it doesn’t constrain the movement of the trailer.
Common Factors to Consider
After knowing about the different seal types. It’s important to understand some important factors before selecting between dock seals and dock shelters.
Dock Seal Types
There are various types of dock seals, such as full-height compression seals and head pads. Depending on the loading dock requirements, businesses use seals that maximize insulation or seals that fit standard-sized trailers.
Dock Shelter Types
The two most important types of docking shelters are soft-sided and rigid shelters. These soft-sided shelters are flexible and can accommodate different trailer sizes and dimensions. In contrast, rigid shelters are sturdier but not as accommodating for trailers other than the standard-size.
Types of Vehicles
It’s important to know the various sizes of trucks the business interacts with daily. Dock seals are perfect for regular trailers. But when the loading dock operates trailer systems of other lengths, then undoubtedly, dock shelters are the best option.
Climate Conditions
Loading docks are prone to harsh conditions in hot, freezing, and rainy weather conditions. Dock seals are more efficient at sealing air leaks and maintaining inner temperatures. In contrast, businesses with less contingent temperature requirements can opt for dock shelters.
Frequency of Use
The usage of the dock seal and dock shelter is another important factor. Shelters tolerate heavy use better than dock seals. That said, using dock seals in heavier operations may cause frequent replacement and repairs.
Building Structure
The dimensions and structure of your loading dock play a huge part. For instance, a smaller and enclosed dock space is well suited for dock seals, which allow for a more compact and tight seal.
On the other hand, an open and bigger dock will work better with dock shelters, which are more flexible and allow more maneuverability for any kind of vehicle.
Budget
Dock seals are more cost-effective to buy upfront but possibly require frequent servicing or replacement in busy operations. Dock shelters are often more expensive but last longer and thus make for a more potent long-term investment in busy docks.
The Right Dock Seals and Shelters for Businesses
Selecting the right dock seal or shelter saves time and money. The significant benefits dock seals and dock shelters bring to the business make it necessary for them to find the best fit. They protect the inventory, save energy costs, and develop a safer and more productive working environment.
Conclusion
Regular checking and maintenance of your dock seals or shelters will also add to their durability and effectiveness. Therefore, your decision among the options above should be based on criteria including vehicle type, climate, frequency of usage, and the available budget.
Take your first step today in transforming your business docking operations with Ideal Seal Manufacturing. Stay connected with our blog for more information about dock seals and dock shelters.