Choose the Perfect Loading Ramp: Your Complete Guide
Finding the right ramp for your vehicle comes down to a few key factors—like size, weight capacity, and how it mounts. To make your choice easier, we’ve included a series comparison chart plus a breakdown of the most important ramp features.
Which ramp series is right for me?
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Will it fit my vehicle?
Ramp features like length, width, and swivel type depend on your vehicle’s specifications and cargo layout. Start by identifying your van’s make, model, and roof height to determine which ramp size fits best. Pay close attention to floor-to-roof height, door clearance, and any interior build-outs (such as shelving or rear A/C units) the ramp must work around.
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On each ramp series page, you'll find a Ramp Specs section outlining the width, length and stored height of each ramp model. You'll also find an Application Guide section with fit guide charts and photo galleries for each compatible van make/model.​
Floor-to-roof height
Generally, low-roof vans typically need shorter bi-fold ramps, while tri-fold ramps provide extra length (up to 116") for tight clearances. Standard and mid-roof vans can accommodate bi-fold ramps up to 108". For high-roof vans, our largest ramps—up to 47" wide and 128" long—are often preferred, with even larger sizes available by special order.
Door width clearance
Choose a ramp that fits your van’s door opening, then confirm that the usable width between the side rails is suitable for your equipment. Most ramps have 2" tall side rails (¼" on high-capacity models), so select a width that matches or exceeds your gear. If it’s a tight fit, opt for a wider ramp for easier loading.
Build out obstacles
If your van has build-outs like shelving or rear A/C units, choose a ramp that clears those obstacles. A right swivel works well when shelving is on the driver’s side or an A/C unit is near the left wheel well, while a center-shift installation can accommodate shelving on both sides with a special kit.
What ramp length and width should I choose?
Choosing the right ramp size means selecting the proper width for your equipment and the correct length for a safe loading angle.​
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Width Options
Non-Swivel | Swivel | High-Capacity |
|---|---|---|
23", 31", 39", 47" | 37", 47" | 47" |
Unique width options can be special ordered in all models.
Important: Ramp widths listed are the usable space between side rails.
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Non-Swivel and Swivel ramps: 2" tall side rails for load safety
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High-Capacity and Hide-A-Ramp: 1/4" low-profile rails for wide, low-clearance machines
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Choose a ramp as wide - or wider - than your largest equipment
Length Options
Non-Swivel | Swivel | High-Capacity |
|---|---|---|
78", 98", 108" and 128" | 78", 98" 108" and 126" | 98", 108" and 128" |
Unique length options can be special ordered in all models.
Longer ramp = gentler load angle
Lightweight, high-clearance equipment can work with a higher load angle
Heavy, long or low to the ground equipment may require a lower load angle
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Tri-fold longer lengths can be special ordered for select models.
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What's the difference between swivel and non-swivel ramps?
The key difference between swivel and non-swivel ramps is mobility when the ramp is stowed. Swivel ramps can pivot to the side, like a door—allowing full access to the rear of the vehicle without deploying the ramp—making them ideal for users who need frequent cargo access or dual-purpose vehicles. Non-swivel ramps are fixed to the floor across the rear opening and better suited for dedicated loading applications where the ramp stays deployed more often.
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For swivel models, left-hand swivel is standard - with the hinge located on the driver side of the vehicle. Right-hand swivel can be special ordered.
Non-swivel Ramps
Ramp is fixed in place and always deploys straight back
Swivel Ramps
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Ramp pivots open 90° to allow rear entry.
Note: all stocked High-Capacity ramps include swivel.
What ramp surface is right for my cargo?
Non-swivel and Swivel ramp models are stocked in two surface options: solid and perforated. The solid surface features raised horizontal lines to provide traction assistance. The perforated surface features 3/4" stamped holes that are non-deburred, which provides superior traction. We recommend the perforated surface in wet, icy, or muddy environments. However, the 3/4" stamped holes can be a problem when loading items with small casters/wheels. Equipment with wheels 3" or larger are best on perforated surface ramps.
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High-capacity swivel ramps are stocked with a solid surface that features shot-blasted "five bar diamond plate" to provide a rough texture and superior traction.
Solid Surface
Lowest cost surface option
Low traction, best for dry conditions
Ideal for small or delicate wheels
Low friction surface with raised horizontal lines
Perforated Surface
Best for hand trucks and carts
Not ideal for small wheeled carts
Great for wet and icy conditions
High-traction surface with 3/4" holes and raised punches
5 Bar Diamond Plate
Available only on high-capacity ramps
Durable, medium grit texture
Great for wet and icy conditions
Durable, shot-blasted
textured surface
What weight capacity do I need?
Not all ramps are built for the same load. Make sure your ramp is rated for your equipment, cargo, and operator.
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The stated weight capacities of our ramps are calculated as the "useable rating", meaning you can confidently handle cargo weighing up to the stated capacity without fear of overloading. Weight capacities for each ramp series are as follows:
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Non-swivel models have either an 880 lb. or 1,300 lb. capacity.
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Swivel models have a capacity of 1,500 lb.
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High-capacity swivel models come in 2,200 lb. or 3,300 lb. capacity.
Low capacity:
880 lb.
Available in non-swivel ramps​
Small machinery, hand trucks, and carts
Ideal for parcel delivery, catering, sound & lighting studios, pelican cases
Medium capacity:
1,300-1,500 lb.
Available in non-swivel and swivel ramps
ATVs, motorcycles, heavy carts and equip. road cases
Ideal for turfcare, HVAC, mobile maintenance and service
High capacity:
2,200-3,300 lb.
Available in high-capacity swivel ramps and Hide-A-Ramp
Ride-on equipment, floor scrubbers, electric pallet jacks
Floorcare, turfcare, small freight delivery
