Dockshelters are indispensable in the world of logistics. Dock shelters help to close off the space between the loading bay and the trailer of a truck. This allows a constant temperature to be maintained inside the building. One type of shelter that is becoming increasingly popular is the inflatable shelter.
What is an inflatable dock shelter?
An inflatable dock shelter is a flexible seal used on loading bays at distribution centres or warehouses. The inflatable dockshelter uses air pressure. Thus, the dock shelter can create a seal between the loading bay and the trailer of a truck.
These loading bay dock shelters have a fixed frame, assembled from scratch-resistant panels. The cushions are made of a polyester with a PVC coating. The inflatable shelter is available in different sizes and configurations for different types of trucks and trailers.
How does an inflatable shelter work?
An inflatable shelter seals the opening of a truck trailer airtight. This is achieved through the use of inflatable cushions. Once the truck has come to a stop, the fan can be activated. Within 30 seconds, the space between the warehouse opening and the truck is sealed.
Once the cushions are inflated, the dock shelter presses against the top and sides of the trailer. This helps prevent the ingress of dust, dirt and other contaminants into the loading and unloading area. In addition, this seal prevents the loss of conditioned air from the building.
What are the benefits of an inflatable dock shelter?
Using an inflatable dock shelter has several advantages over other types of dock shelters. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Improved energy efficiency
One of the main advantages of an inflatable shelter is its improved energy efficiency. The inflatable shelter creates an airtight seal around the opening of the trailer. This can minimise the loss of conditioned air from the building. This can lead to significant savings on heating and cooling costs, especially in areas with extreme temperatures.
- Enhanced weather protection
Inflatable dock shelters also offer enhanced weather protection. Dock shelters prevent dust, dirt and contaminants from entering the loading and unloading area. This improves air quality and reduces the risk of product damage. Moreover, this creates a safer and more comfortable working environment for your employees.
- Increased productivity
An inflatable dock shelter can contribute to increased productivity. Indeed, loading and unloading trucks is made faster and easier.
In addition, the shelter protects against weather conditions. This can shorten the loading and unloading time and reduce the number of interruptions. This improves the workflow and increases the efficiency of the loading and unloading process.
- Reduced damage
Inflatable dock shelters can contribute to reduced damage as they create a safe and stable loading environment. The dock shelter is secured against premature truck departure. For example, the freely moving cushion mounts ensure that the truck's cushions rotate outwards. Thus, the suspension is not damaged.
In addition, the cushions of the dock shelter are also inflated only when the truck is docked. This prevents the cushions from being exposed to the collision forces of the truck. This increases the average service life of the inflatable shelter.
- Versatility
Inflatable dock shelters are available in different sizes and configurations, making them very versatile. They can be adapted to a wide range of vehicles. Even those with unusual shapes or sizes. This versatility makes them a good choice for loading bays that have a wide variety of vehicles.
Inflatable shelter to suit your needs
Are you looking for an efficient solution for your loading and unloading process? Then consider using an inflatable dock shelter. At Loading Systems, we offer a wide range of loading solutions, including inflatable dock shelters.
Please contact us for more information and/or a no-obligation quotation. We can help you optimise your loading bay. Would you prefer more information about our dock shelters? Then read on here.