WHAT IS THE IDEAL DOOR OPENING SIZE FOR A LOADING DOCK?
Again, there is no simple answer to what seems like a simple question. Many factors need to be taken into consideration: (1) whether the customer has a fleet of trucks that are identical or if they are serviced by a range of common carriers, (2) the dock height and range of truck heights, and (3) the type of freight. For example, if the best possible seal was desired, and the trucks were 8′ wide and 12’6″ high, the dock height was 4′, and full access to the truck opening was not required, the ideal opening size would be 7’6″ x 8’6″ using a seal. If trucks were 8′ or 8’6″ wide and full access to the truck opening was required, then the ideal opening size would be 9 x 10 and a rigid shelter would be a better solution. In general, the larger the opening the less efficient the dock will be in terms of energy consumption.
