Mobile loading platforms (also know as mobile lightweight platforms) are designed for businesses that need a flexible and easy to move loading solution. They create a safe working height for operators and can be repositioned when yard layouts or seasonal demands change. They work especially well for light to medium duty loading where space is limited or where a permanent structure is not required.
Thorworld offers three bridging options engineered with a 2000Kg SWL that support different levels of usage and different types of handling equipment. Our platforms are available in standard sizes of 2.4 x 2.5m and 2.4 x 3.6m, with nonstandard sizes available on request. Each method provides a secure transition for operators and helps maintain safe and efficient loading.
So what are the bridging options?
- Dockplate
A dockplate is a lightweight, standalone aluminium plate that creates a simple bridge between a mobile loading platform and a vehicle. Because it can be positioned manually, it’s ideal for light duty loading where loads are smaller and equipment is nonpowered.
The plate is lowered into place by the operator, with locking legs that slot between the platform and vehicle to stop it shifting during use. A DSection bumper with cutouts on the platform front edge helps guide the legs into position and protects against impact. Both the front and back edges are bevelled, giving a smooth transition for sack trucks, pallet trucks, trolleys and similar equipment.
A dockplate is a more flexible option for certain challenging loading conditions when compared to a hinged bridgeplate. For example, when goods are packed tightly against the rear doors of a lorry, there is often limited clearance to manoeuvre a hinged plate into place, making the task quite tricky. Because a dockplate is manually positioned rather than fixed, it can be placed wherever there’s space, which makes it much easier to use in situations like this.
Overall, a dockplate is the most practical choice when you need to bridge a small gap between similar heights, it is easy to move and a very cost effective solution.
- Hinged Bridge plate
A standard aluminium hinged bridge plate acts like a drawbridge and is fixed permanently to the lightweight mobile platform which means the operator can lower it into place whenever it is needed. The plates hinge from the rail and can slide along it to whichever loading point is required.
This makes it a convenient choice for operations that load more regularly and need a reliable connection to the vehicle.
The hinged design removes the need to position or store a separate plate. It provides a smoother transition and increased stability for medium duty loading tasks. A locking clamp will secure the plate from falling when stored vertically between uses.
- Hinged Bridge plate with Heavy Duty Steel Piano Hinge
This option is similar to the standard hinged bridge plate but includes a heavy duty steel piano hinge for increased durability, and a pair of rubber bumpers either side of the hinge preventing damage.
Importantly this option does not allow for the sideways movement that a standard hinged bridge plate does. It is designed for higher frequency loading where heavier goods or more demanding equipment place greater pressures on the bridge plate. It also provides a smoother transition and increased stability. The strengthened hinge improves stability and extends the working life of the plate which makes it the most robust type of mobile loading platform.
Therefore, it is well suited to operations that need dependable performance throughout multiple loading cycles.
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Do you have specific on-site restrictions or are you unsure which one is right for your company?
We are here to help solve your loading challenges. If you need an alternative layout due to restrictions in space, additional features or simply some further guidance get in touch and one of our experts can help assess your site, discuss your operational needs and recommend the safest and most cost-effective solution for your business.
