On your loading dock, dock shelters can keep your bays dry and comfortable, while helping you conserve energy and keep your warehouse secure. Raymond West sells, 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 wood or metal frame that can be rigid or flexible. Fabric and/or fiberglass is generally affixed to the perimeter and fabric drapes attach to the face of the shelter. These drapes seal the top and sides of the trailer when it’s up against the dock door opening. Generally, shelters are used for larger door openings, and in operations where there is less uniformity in truck heights. Shelters can reach about 70% air flow efficiency.

Rigid Dock Shelter

Among the most popular options, rigid shelters are widely used for large dimension openings in situations where there is high variability in truck height and full access to the back of the trailer is needed. Stiff head frames and sides are bolstered by metal supports that are typically configured with fiberglass surrounds to allow sunlight during daytime work. The head frame doubles as a canopy to protect the dock area from wet weather.

Inflatable Dock Shelter

Inflatable shelters, like rigid ones, surround the sides of the trailer enabling unfettered entry to the trailer. A blower is used to inflate the shelter when a trailer is secured to the dock bay. Inflatable shelters are usually integrated with an interlock system, along with the leveler and door, where the shelter will inflate only if the door and leveler 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?

Dock seals are constructed with heavy duty fabric covered foam. They’re attached around the perimeter of a dock door. They allow for a firm seal when a trailer is against the door.

In contrast, dock shelters consist of a frame that surrounds the warehouse door with curtains attached to the frame. When a truck backs in, the curtains enshroud the rear of the trailer and create a seal.

Dock Shelters Near Me

To learn more 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 Tucson facility serves Pima County, including Tucson, South Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita and surrounding areas

Raymond West | Tucson Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Tucson Service Area
(520) 729-4222