Dock shelters can keep your loading dock area safe and comfortable by keeping weather and vermin out of your building, while keeping conditioned air inside where it belongs. Raymond West provides, installs and services products from some of the world’s top dock shelter manufacturers.

What Is A Dock Shelter?

The majority of dock shelters are constructed with a wood or metal frame that may be either flexible or rigid. Fabric and/or fiberglass is normally affixed to the perimeter and fabric curtains attach to the face of the shelter. These curtains seal the top and sides of the trailer when it’s flush to the bay door opening. Shelters are generally used for more substantial door frames, and in operations where there is a wide variety in truck heights. On average, shelters may attain about 70% air flow efficiency.

Rigid Dock Shelter

Rigid shelters are the most popular option, and they are widely utilized for oversized doors in scenarios where there is high variability in trailer height and unobstructed access to the back of the trailer is a necessity. Stiff head frames and sides are braced by steel supports that are generally configured with fiberglass sides to maximize light during daytime work. The head frame also acts as an awning to protect the dock area from rain and snow.

Inflatable Dock Shelter

Inflatable shelters, like rigid ones, surround the sides of the trailer enabling unrestricted entry to the trailer. A blower is used to inflate the shelter once a truck is secured to the dock bay. Inflatable shelters are generally integrated with an interlock system, along with the leveler and door, where the shelter can inflate only when the door and leveler are in the correct positions. Inflatable shelters come in many shapes and sizes for all types of operations.

What’s The Difference Between A Dock Seal And Dock Shelter?

Dock seals are built with thick foam covered with rugged fabric. They’re attached around the outside edges of a bay door. They form a firm seal when a trailer is against the door.

Shelters, on the other hand, have a frame that surrounds the dock door opening with curtains mounted to the frame. When a trailer backs in, the curtains surround the trailer entry and create a seal.

Dock Shelters Near Me

To get more information about dock shelter capabilities and options, speak with a loading dock equipment specialist at Raymond West today! Our team of of highly trained experts can help with the design and specification of a wide range of dock equipment options.

Raymond's Portland service operation includes all of Western Oregon and Southwest Washington, including Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Hillsboro, Forest Grove, Sherwood, Tualatin, Wilsonville, Oregon City, Gladstone, Clackamas, Milwaukie, Happy Valley, Gresham, Troutdale, Woodburn, Salem, Vancouver, Ridgefield, Longview, Kelso and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Portland Material Handling Equipment Supplier

3148 NE 181st Ave
Portland, OR 97230
(800) 675-2500