The enhancement of loading dock efficiency and safety with energy saving advantages can be achieved through two popular options which are dock seals and dock shelters. Truck backup protection exists between dock seals and dock shelters yet their use depends on warehouse business requirements.
In this article, we will discuss the differences between dock seals and dock shelters and their advantages and how to choose one that is right for your facility.
What Are Dock Seals?
Dock seals are soft structures that hug the edge of the loading dock door and compress against the truck trailer in order to provide an airtight seal. These seals are generally made using soft durable foam or sponge material and are covered with a heavy-duty upholstery material like vinyl or polyethylene.
Key Features of Dock Seals:
- Tight seal function enables the system to press against the truck body for complete protection against outside elements including weather and dust and pests.
- System practices energy efficiency by regulating indoor temperatures which reduces heating and cooling expenses for trucks.
- The system performs optimally with trailers that have consistent dimensions in terms of size.
- The system demands relatively small maintenance efforts because it needs less attention than competing options.
Best Suited For:
- Cold storage facilities
- Warehouses with consistent trailer sizes
- Operations that put energy efficiency first
What Are Dock Shelters?
Dock shelters are what their name indicates. They shelter the truck from the elements but allow air circulation once it is inside. Dock shelters can protect the truck from the sides and top, using rigid or flexible frames and curtain-like barriers. Unlike dock seals, these do not compress against the truck but form a protective buffer around it.
Key Features of Dock Shelters:
- Accommodates Varied Truck Sizes – Adjustable for different trailer heights and widths.
- Durable Construction – Often made from steel frames with UV-resistant curtains.
- Better for Uneven or Misaligned Trailers – More forgiving than seals.
- Enhanced Durability – Less wear and tear compared to compression-based seals.
Best Suited For:
- Distribution centers with trucks of varying sizes
- High-traffic docks with frequent truck changes
- Outdoor docks that experience the brunt of severe weather
When to opt for Dock Seals:
- They cater to nearly same-sized trailers working at your facility.
- When maximum insulation is desired (e.g., refrigerated warehouses).
- You are looking for a less-maintenance solution.
When to opt for Dock Shelters:
There are differences in trailer heights/widths for each of the loading docks.
- Trucks misalign at the dock often.
- When you are looking for a durable solution for high traffic across a dock.
Conclusion
While dock seals and shelters both help improve loading dock efficiency, choosing one over the other depends entirely on your facility requirements. Dock seals would be best if energy saving and a tight seal are your top priorities, while dock sheltering would be a better option if your facility is confronted with varying trailer sizes and needs flexibility.
Need help in finding out? Call us today, and let our experts help you decide on your best-loading dock solutions!