Plant Machinery Loading Ramps for Mini Diggers, Micro Excavators, Dumpers & Construction Equipment

Plant Machinery Loading Ramps

Loading and unloading plant machinery safely is critical on any site, whether you’re working in construction, landscaping, or plant hire. Using the incorrect ramps can risk costly damage to your machine and risk injury, or even death of employees.

Within this blog we will look at our new TRP Loading Ramps, designed specifically for loading plant machinery. With capacities up to 4,000kg they are ideal for a range of rubber tracked and rubber wheeled machinery. We will look at what machines the ramps can be used with and how to identify which ramp length you should purchase.

What Are Plant Machinery Loading Ramps?

Plant machinery loading ramps are heavy-duty access solutions designed to bridge the gap between ground level and transport vehicles such as trailers, lorries, or plant carriers. They can also be used to overcome steps. They allow operators to safely load and unload equipment into vehicles, allowing the machine to be safely transported between sites. The heavy-duty loading ramps are commonly used by construction companies, landscapers, plant hire companies, and agricultural firms..

What material are heavy-duty loading ramps made from?

Heavy-duty loading ramps are usually made from aluminium or steel. Aluminium ramps are much lighter than steel solutions; however steel ramps are generally cheaper.

Should I use a pair of ramps or one wide ramp?

The best option depends on the type of machinery being loaded. In most cases, a pair of loading ramps is preferred for plant machinery with tracks or wheels, as the ramps are typically lighter, easier to handle, and simpler to position than a single wide ramp. One wide ramp is more commonly used for lower loading heights, particularly when loading forklifts, pallet trucks, cages, trolleys, or similar equipment into vans and trailers. A wide ramp provides a continuous loading surface, making it easier to manoeuvre equipment with small wheels or limited ground clearance.

What Plant Machinery Can be Loaded on the TRP Loading Ramps?

The TRP loading ramps are designed for loading rubber wheeled and rubber tracked machinery. The aluminium ramps support light to medium weight machines weighing up to 4,000kg. They are commonly used to load machines from leading brands including Kubota, JCB, CAT, Takeuchi and Bobcat. Machinery which is commonly loaded on the ramps include:
Mini diggers & micro diggers
Micro excavators and mini excavators
Ride-on mowers

What Vehicles Are the TRP Loading Ramps Compatible With?

The TRP loading ramps offer a curved rest on connection with a pre-drilled hole to allow the ramps to be secured in place during loading. The rest on connection is compatible with flat-bed vehicles including transit vans, sprinter vans and flat bed trucks.
If you are loading into a beaver tail trailer or step frame trailer you are likely to need an alternative connection option such as a hook or tube connection. At The Ramp People we are able to offer alternative ramps with this connection, please contact our team for a solution.

How to Choose the Right Loading Ramps for Your Machinery

Prior to purchasing loading ramps it is essential you ensure the ramps are suitable for your vehicle and machine. It is important to check the following:

1. Load height

Measure the vertical height from the ground to where the end of the ramp will rest on the van or trailer.

2. Capacity

Check the maximum weight you wish to load - consider the weight of the machine and any weight it will be carrying.

3. Gradient

Check the maximum gradient the machine can climb, the TRP loading ramps are designed for use at a 30% gradient.

The Ramp People's TRP Loading Ramps Key Features

Angled base

The foot of the ramp is angled to ensure the ramps remain securely on the ground during loading.

Rest on connection

Secure the ramps to your vehicle during loading. The ramps have a curved rest on connection with a pre-drilled hole and pin.

Lightweight design

Manufactured from aluminium the lightweight ramps can easily be lifted and moved into position.

Additional Things to consider

Ramp weight

Consider who will be lifting the ramp and the ramp weight to ensure suitability.

Ramp length

Consider the ramp length is suitable, not just to provide a smooth gradient but also in terms of storage.

Ramp width

Are the ramps wide enough for your machine's tracks or wheels?

TRP Loading Ramps

Available in lengths of 1.5m, 2m, 2.5m, 3m & 3.5m

Designed for loading at a maximum gradient of 30%

Angled foot for smooth entry onto the ramps

Manufactured from aluminium, lightweight design

High traction surface for optimum grip

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Using Loading Ramps Safely

When using plant ramps, it is essential you do so safely and always follow the guidance provided by the manufacturer. Key tips include:
Never exceed the recommended load height as the ramps will not sit flush on the ground.
Do not exceed the recommended capacity.
Always secure the ramps to the vehicle using the pin provided.
Drive slowly up the ramps.
Do not use the ramps to load machinery with solid wheels.
Do not use ramps if they show any signs of damage.

What ramp gradient is best for loading plant machinery?

Plant machinery generally can be loaded at a maximum gradient of 30% gradient (approx. 1:3.3 ratio). It is important to check your machine's manual as some machinery, such as forklifts and scissor lifts, requires a smoother gradient.

How do I choose the correct ramp length for plant machinery?

The correct ramp length depends on your trailer height, machine type, and required loading angle. If you wish to load at a 30% gradient, simply measure the vertical height from the ground to where the ramp will rest on your trailer or van and multiply this height by 3.33.

What loading ramps are suitable for mini diggers?

The TRP loading ramps are designed for most mini diggers. It is important to check your load height and ensure the ramps’ width and capacity are suitable.

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