Loading Dock Efficiency in 5 Simple Steps

If you could maximize the efficiency of just one area of your facility, would it be your loading dock?

Bottlenecks during loading and unloading can ripple throughout your facility and the entire supply chain. Fortunately, loading dock performance is largely within your control. To ensure an efficient loading dock, take it one step at a time:

STEP 1:
SECURE THE TRAILER.
Use dock restraints to hold trailers in place throughout the entire loading and unloading process.

STEP 2:
OPEN THE DOOR ONCE RESTRAINT IS IN PLACE.
Integrated loading dock control systems enhance safety by preventing the door from opening until the restraints are engaged.

STEP 3:
DEPLOY THE DOCK LEVELER.
Levelers and lips should operate exactly as intended. Malfunctioning equipment risks not only productivity but also safety.

STEP 4:
USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR THE JOB.
From personal protective equipment to forklifts, when all your equipment is fully functional, you don’t have to rely on workarounds.

STEP 5:
GIVE EMPLOYEES ALL THE RESOURCES THEY NEED.
Loading docks should have good lighting. High-volume low-speed fans keep workers cool and circulate air to prevent condensation.

Does your facility take these steps with each and every loading dock delivery? Improve your loading process by maintaining, repairing and updating your equipment. Reach out to Miner for information about new equipment and planned maintenance schedules.