introduction

A loading ramp is an essential component of cattle handling facilities, providing a safe and efficient means of loading and unloading livestock from transport vehicles. The positioning of a loading ramp is an important consideration when planning a stockyard layout as the location must account for truck access, vehicle size and loading requirements. The placement and orientation of a loading ramp often influence the site layout and overall yard design.

cattle loading methods

A loading ramp can be used in two ways, rear or side loading. Larger vehicles have either function, but every vehicle has the rear loading option. For rear loading adequate distance in front of the ramp is needed to give the truck room to turn and back. For side loading the truck path has to clear any fences and ensure that the truck is able to pull up straight to the ramp and the turning radius is not too sharp.

ramp styles

Loading ramps come in several styles: Single deck, Double deck and a dump.

Single decks are most commonly used as they can accommodate both single and double deck trailers through the use of the trailer’s internal ramp. For larger operations where high volumes of cattle are regularly handled a double deck ramp may be preferred. These allow cattle to be loaded and unloaded directly onto both levels of a double deck trailer, eliminating the need to use the internal ramp and reducing handling time. By alternating groups of cattle between the upper and lower decks, both levels can be loaded simultaneously improving overall efficiency.

cattle loading ramp sheeting & catwalk

Large commercial loading ramps are fully sheeted to improve cattle flow, the sheeting prevents baulking from visual distractions.

Our permanent loading ramps are supplied with catwalks on both sides of the ramp for ease of use to follow cattle up the ramp onto the truck but remaining outside of the ramp. Access on the driver’s side is considered for opening and closing trailer gates.

slide gates & ramp front options

Other design considerations are sliding gates and front type. Slide gates can either be located at the top or bottom of the ramp. For a double ramp they are best located at the top of the ramp. For a dump ramp a gate is used at the bottom as it is too wide for a slide gate.

Ramps used with rear-loading trailers require a buffered front to prevent damage during alignment and loading. For fixed ramp fronts, materials such as timber or docking rubber are commonly used to absorb impact. Alternatively a spring-loaded or pivoting front can be installed, offering greater flexibility and shock absorption during trailer docking.

cattle loading ramp floor

Thompson Longhorn ramps use concrete step floors in our single and double loading ramps. This provides superior anti-slipping performance due to their grooved surfaces. Unlike timber or steel flooring, concrete eliminates issues related to corrosion or rot, offering greater durability and lower maintenance. For wider dump ramps, the most effective solution is a site poured base, laid before constructing the remainder of the ramp. This approach also includes forming the personnel access path along the outside of the ramp, ensuring safe and stable footing for handlers.

summary:

• Main purpose is for loading and unloading trucks.

• Our ramps can be used for rear or side load trailers.

• Permanent loading ramps are fully sheeted with catwalks.

• Catwalks have handrails for OH&S and Australian Standards.

• Considers access for truck drivers.

• Buffered fronts of docking rubber or spring loaded pivotal front options.

• Concrete stepped floors for better grip and reduced corrosion.

features:

• Fully hot-dip galvanised construction.

• 1500mm internal race width.

• Heavy-duty reinforced post and frame structure.

overhead ramp-to-truck access walkway

A driver’s access platform for the top of our loading ramps allowing a safer area for the driver to go between the top of the ramp to the catwalk on top of their trailers.