
Dock Seals vs Dock Shelters
Key Differences Type
Dock Shelters
Dock Seals
Strengths
• Seals all trailer and delivery vehicle widths and heights
• Provides full access to dock door and trailer • Modular design makes repair and replacement simple • Ready for use on any door size • Curtain style seals slide out of the way when in use eliminating wear and tear from forklifts and pallet loads hitting the seal • Creates an air tight seal, even over trailer hinges
• Modular design makes installation and replacement simple • Completely seals out rain and water • Uses less space around the dock door • Models available for 8', 9', & and 10' wide doors Weaknesses
• Allows for some rain to enter the building as it runs down the top of the trailer (this issue is more noticeable when the approach is declining)
• Gap between door and hinges allows air to transfer as the curtains slide to the outside. • Uses more space around the dock door; Overall dimensions 11'6" wide by 11' High. • Reduces opening width down to 7'6", to seal 8' and 8'6" wide trailers
• Service Height range is limited by placement of header • Prone to damage from forklifts and pallet loads due to the reduced opening size Repair
replacement • All hardware, frames, fiberglass panels, curtains, spring steel stays, and other miscellaneous components are available for individual sale.
• Curtains sets are available (pillows included) • Available as single pads or in sets
• Recovers ready to be pulled over existing pads are available Lead
Time • 2 weeks or longer
• 2 weeks or longer
Price
Similar in cost to the largest dock seals, dock shelters provide the greatest price/performance offering due to their durability and utility. ~See Prices~
Typically lower cost than a dock Shelter dock seals make a strong price/performance choice for facilities with a single or few dock doors ~See prices~
Dock Seal and Dock Shelter Specifications
How Dock Seals & Dock Shelters Work
Conclusion In the majority of cases customers end up going with a dock seal due to it's superior sealing capabilities and lower initial price point. However, it is our opinion your final decision between a dock shelter and dock seal should be based on your needs. For example: dock seals are certainly cheaper at first, but they are prone to damage from forklift loads. This increases the cost of maintenance and ultimately brings the cost of a shelter and dock seal closer together as time progresses. Due to this eventual breaking even we recommend basing your decision on what your actual needs are:
These among other questions are all going to invariably lead you to one option or the other. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible solution. It's this reason we keep staff on hand to help you identify solutions and conflicts with design and use of your seals. Loading Dock Supply, LLC prides itself on being available to discuss your needs give us a call and we'll help you choose the right seal for the job 1800-741-1258. |
