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 solutions from the top producers of dock shelters in the country.

What Is A Dock Shelter?

Most dock shelters are built with a metal or wood frame that can be rigid or flexible. Fiberglass or fabric is typically affixed to the outer surface and fabric curtains attach to the front of the shelter. These curtains seal the perimeter of the trailer when it’s flush to the bay door frame. Shelters are generally put to use for more substantial door openings, and in situations where there is less uniformity in truck sizes. Shelters can reach about 70% air flow efficiency.

Rigid Dock Shelter

Rigid shelters are the most popular option, and they are widely utilized for large dimension openings in applications where there is high variability in trailer height and full access to the rear of the trailer is needed. Stiff head frames and sides are braced by steel supports that are generally configured with fiberglass surrounds to maximize light during daytime operations. The head frame doubles as an awning to shelter the dock area from rain and snow.

Inflatable Dock Shelter

Inflatable shelters, like rigid ones, seal the sides of the trailer allowing full entry to the trailer. A blower is used to inflate the shelter once a truck is backed up to the dock door. Inflatable shelters are commonly integrated with an interlock system, along with the door and/or the dock leveler, where the shelter will inflate only if the dock leveler and door are in the correct 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?

Seals are built with heavy duty fabric covered foam. They’re attached around the outside edges of a warehouse door. They form a firm seal when a trailer is against the door.

In contrast, dock shelters have a frame that surrounds the bay door with curtains mounted to the frame. When a trailer approaches the bay, the drapes enshroud the trailer entry and form a seal.

Dock Shelters Near Me

To find out more about dock shelter options and capabilities, get in touch 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 Santa Barbara County service area includes Buellton, Carpinteria, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Santa Barbara Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Santa Barbara County, CA
(805) 749-2777