On your loading dock, dock shelters can keep your warehouse dry and comfortable, while helping you save energy and keep your warehouse secure. 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 built with a metal or wood frame that can be rigid or flexible. Fabric and/or fiberglass is generally fastened to the outer surface and fabric drapes attach to the face of the shelter. These drapes seal the top and sides of the trailer when it’s flush to the warehouse door frame. Shelters are generally employed for larger door openings, and in situations where there is less uniformity in truck heights. On average, shelters may reach about 70% air flow efficiency.

Rigid Dock Shelter

Among the most popular options, rigid shelters are generally used for oversized openings in situations where there is little uniformity in truck height and unobstructed access to the back of the trailer is a necessity. Stiff head frames and sides are reinforced by metal supports that are typically equipped with fiberglass sides to maximize light during daytime work. The head frame doubles as a canopy to protect the loading dock from precipitation.

Inflatable Dock Shelter

Like other shelters, inflatable units seal the sides of the trailer allowing unfettered access to the trailer. Inflatable shelters use a blower to inflate when a truck is backed up to the dock door. Inflatable shelters are commonly integrated with an interlock system, along with the leveler and door, where the shelter is permitted to inflate once the dock leveler and door are in the appropriate positions. Inflatable shelters come in many shapes and sizes for a wide range of uses.

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

Dock seals are made from heavy duty fabric covered foam. They’re mounted around the outside edges of a bay door. They form a tight seal when a truck backs up to the door.

In contrast, dock shelters have a frame that surrounds the warehouse door with drapes attached to the frame. When a truck approaches the bay, the curtains enshroud the rear of the trailer and create a seal.

Dock Shelters Near Me

To get more information about dock shelter options and capabilities, 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 West's Calexico facility serves Imperial County and Yuma County, Including Calexico, Brawley, El Centro, San Luis, Yuma and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Calexico Material Handling Equipment Supplier

285 Rood Rd
Calexico, CA 92231
(760) 768-8700