Best Loading Dock Plates of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Loading dock plates are essential equipment for businesses that require the frequent loading and unloading of goods. These plates are typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and are designed to bridge the gap between a loading dock and a truck or trailer. They come in a variety of sizes and weight capacities to accommodate different types of vehicles and loads. Loading dock plates are an effective way to increase efficiency and safety in the loading and unloading process, while also protecting employees from potential accidents or injuries.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

48" x 36" Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plate Cover #TOP 1
48" x 36" Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plate
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Vestil AMD-3018 Aluminum Mini Dock Board Cover #TOP 2
Vestil AMD-3018 Aluminum Mini Dock Board
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Eagle 1796 Poly Dockplate Cover #TOP 3
Eagle 1796 Poly Dockplate
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Loading Dock Plates

#TOP 1

48" x 36" Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plate

Guardian
ADP-3648-3500
Metallic
36" x 48" x 0.375"
48" x 36" Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plate Cover
Guardian Aluminum Dock Plate with Carrying Handles for Pallet Jacks, Hand Carts, Material Handling, 36" x 48" 3,500 lb. Capacity

This loading dock plate is designed for loading dock pallet trucks, pallet jacks, carts, and foot traffic material handling. It has a 36" x 48" size with a 9" lip-bend and machine beveled edges, allowing for easy loading and unloading. The plate has a maximum capacity of 3,500 lb. over a 3" surface height at 14% grade or 5" at 19% grade. The heavy-duty all-aluminum construction and diamond tread surface provide durability and traction for safe and efficient material handling. Bolt-on carrying handles and steel lock legs are included for easy transportation and storage.

What We Like
Durable all-aluminum construction
Heavy-duty diamond tread surface provides traction for safe material handling
Includes bolt-on carrying handles and steel lock legs for easy transportation and storage
#TOP 2

Vestil AMD-3018 Aluminum Mini Dock Board

AMD-3018
Silver
30 Inch
Vestil AMD-3018 Aluminum Mini Dock Board Cover
Vestil AMD-3018 Aluminum Tread Plate Mini Dock Board 18 In. x 30 In. x 4-11/16 In. 600 Lb. Capacity Silver

The Vestil Aluminum Dock Board is designed to help you easily bridge the gap between your truck and loading dock, making loading and unloading smoother. Its lightweight aluminum build means you can carry and position it without much effort, plus it won’t rust over time. The built-in handles add to its portability, so you can move it where you need it quickly. For your safety, the non-slip tread surface keeps equipment and foot traffic steady, preventing slips and falls during use. This dock board is a practical tool that enhances safety and convenience in your loading tasks.

What We Like
Lightweight aluminum
Portable lifting handles
Non-slip tread surface
Gap bridging capability
#TOP 3

Eagle 1796 Poly Dockplate

1796
Yellow
Eagle 1796 Poly Dockplate Cover
Eagle 1796 Fixed Poly Dockplate, 26" Length x 35" Width x 5" Height, Yellow, for Hand Trucks

The Eagle Poly Dockplate is designed to make handling dollies and hand trucks easier and safer. Its light-duty build works well with both two and four-wheeled carts, helping you move items smoothly. The lift-and-lower ergonomic design reduces the chance of injuries by making it easier to adjust the dockplate’s position, which can help lower your workers' compensation claims. You’ll also appreciate the molded-in handle, which allows for easy carrying and placement. Additionally, the raised non-slip surface and built-in guardrails provide extra safety by preventing slips and keeping your equipment on track during use.

What We Like
Ergonomic lift-and-lower design
Molded-in handle for easy carrying
Raised non-slip surface
Integrated guardrails for safety
#TOP 4

Vestil E-4830 Aluminum Dock Plate

E-4830
Silver
Vestil E-4830 Aluminum Dock Plate Cover
Vestil E-4830 Aluminum Economizer Dock Plate Usable 48 In. x 30 In. 3/8 In. Plate Thickness 4100 Lb. Capacity

The Vestil Aluminum Dock Plate is designed to make your loading and unloading tasks easier and safer. Its strong aluminum surface is both durable and lightweight, so you can handle it without straining yourself. The plate supports foot traffic, hand trucks, and pallet trucks, making it versatile for various uses, though it’s not meant for forklifts. It also features zinc-plated locking legs and lifting handles that meet OSHA safety standards, giving you extra stability and ease when moving the plate. Plus, the beveled edges provide a smooth transition on and off the plate, helping prevent trips or jolts as you move equipment across it.

What We Like
Durable lightweight aluminum
Supports foot and pallet trucks
OSHA-compliant locking legs
Easy-to-lift handles
Beveled edges for smooth transition
#TOP 5

Vestil A-3024 Aluminum Hand Truck Dock Plate

A-3024
Silver
30 Inch
Vestil A-3024 Aluminum Hand Truck Dock Plate Cover
Vestil A-3024 Hand Truck Dock Plate, Aluminum, 500-lb. Capacity, 24" Length, 30" Usable Width, 1/4" Thick

The Vestil Aluminum Dock Plate is designed to make moving your two-wheel hand trucks between the loading dock and truck easier and safer. Its lightweight aluminum build helps you handle it without strain while resisting rust for long-lasting use. The plate comes with zinc-plated legs that bolt on securely, giving you a stable base to work from. Plus, the locking legs keep the plate firmly in place so it won’t shift while you’re loading or unloading, helping you avoid accidents and improve efficiency.

What We Like
Lightweight aluminum construction
Corrosion resistance
Zinc-plated bolt-on legs
Locking leg stability
Supports up to 500 lbs.
#TOP 6

Vestil A-3030 Aluminum Dock Plate

A-3030
Multicolor
Vestil A-3030 Aluminum Dock Plate Cover
Vestil A-3030 Aluminum Hand Truck Dock Plate 30 In. x 30 In. 500 Lb. Capacity Silver

The Vestil Dock Plate offers a lightweight design that makes it easy for you to move it around, whether you're using your feet or a hand truck. Its beveled edges create a smooth ramp, so you can easily transition between surfaces without bumps or jolts. The tread plate surface is designed to provide you with secure footing, reducing the risk of slips during use. Plus, the zinc-plated locking legs and lifting handles meet OSHA requirements, giving you added safety and stability while handling heavy loads. This makes the Vestil Dock Plate a practical and safe choice for your loading needs.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Beveled edges
Skid-resistant surface
Zinc-plated locking legs
OSHA-compliant handles
#TOP 7

Rage Powersports Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plates

Guardian
ADP-4860-2900
metallic
48-Inch x 60-Inch
Rage Powersports Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plates Cover
Guardian Aluminum Dock Plate with Carrying Handles for Pallet Jacks, Hand Carts, Material Handling, Diamond Tread Traction 48" x 60" 2,900 lb. Capacity

Rage Powersports ADP-4860-2900 48-Inch x 60-Inch Aluminum Pallet Jack Loading Dock Plates are specifically designed for loading dock pallet trucks, pallet jacks, carts, and foot traffic material handling. This loading dock plate has a 48" x 60" surface with a 9" lip-bend and machine beveled edges, making it easier to use. The carrying handles and steel lock legs make the plate easier to transport and secure. With a maximum 2,900 lb. capacity over 5" surface height at 14% grade or 7" at 19% grade, this plate is perfect for heavy-duty use. The diamond tread surface provides extra traction, making it safer to use.

What We Like
Durable all-aluminum construction
Bolt-on carrying handles and steel lock legs for easier transport and security
Maximum 2,900 lb. capacity over 5" surface height at 14% grade or 7" at 19% grade, making it suitable for heavy-duty use
#TOP 8

Vestil E-4836 Aluminum Dock Plate

E-4836
Silver
Vestil E-4836 Aluminum Dock Plate Cover
Vestil E-4836 Aluminum Economizer Dock Plate Usable 48 In. x 36 In. 3/8 In. Plate Thickness 3500 Lb. Capacity

The Vestil Aluminum Dock Plate is designed to make loading and unloading easier and safer for you. Its strong aluminum surface can handle foot traffic, hand trucks, and pallet trucks, providing a reliable bridge for your equipment. The plate is lightweight, so you can move it around without heavy lifting. It also features zinc-plated locking legs and lifting handles that meet OSHA safety standards, helping you secure it firmly in place. Plus, the beveled edges allow for smooth transitions on and off the plate, reducing bumps and making your work more efficient.

What We Like
Durable aluminum material
Lightweight design
OSHA-compliant locking legs
Beveled edges for smooth transition
#TOP 9

Rage Powersports Aluminum Dock Plate

Guardian
ADP-3042-3300
Metallic
30" x 42" x 0.375"
Rage Powersports Aluminum Dock Plate Cover
Guardian Aluminum Dock Plate with Carrying Handles for Pallet Jacks, Hand Carts, Material Handling, 30" x 42" 3,300 lb. Capacity

The Rage Dock Plate is designed to facilitate the movement of pallet trucks, jacks, carts, and foot traffic at loading docks. This 30" x 42" plate features a 9" lip-bend and beveled edges, making it easy to transition between surfaces. With a sturdy capacity of up to 3,300 lbs, it can handle various loads with ease. The heavy-duty aluminum construction and diamond tread surface ensure durability and safety while transporting materials. The included bolt-on carrying handles and steel lock legs provide added convenience and stability during use.

What We Like
Heavy-duty aluminum construction
High weight capacity
Beveled edges for safety
Convenient carrying handles
#TOP 10

Global Industrial Aluminum Dock Plate

241744
Metallic
48"L x 48"W x 6"H
Global Industrial Aluminum Dock Plate Cover
Global Industrial High-Traction Dock Plate, Aluminum, 48" W x 24" L, 3700 Lb. Capacity

The Global Industrial Dock Plate is designed for efficient loading and unloading tasks. Its diamond tread surface provides excellent traction, ensuring you can move safely without slipping. With handholds, you can easily transport the plate, making it convenient for quick setup and storage. The beveled edge allows for smooth transitions between surfaces, which is essential for preventing damage to your goods and equipment. Measuring 48 inches wide by 24 inches long, this dock plate is suitable for various loading needs, supporting up to 3,700 pounds for your heavy-duty tasks.

What We Like
High traction surface
Easy to transport
Smooth loading transitions
Durable aluminum construction
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a loading dock plate?

The goal of a dock plate is to bridge the gap between a trailer and the loading dock. This is the same general goal of a dock leveler, but that's where the similarities end. Dock plates are typically constructed of aluminum and designed to be portable, as opposed to permanent levelers.

2. What is the proper overlap for a dock plate?

Position the dock board or plate with at least 8 inches of overlap on each end. Have a certified specialist must inspect hydraulic dock plates at least once a year. Paint the edges of the plate and consider a lip to prevent forklifts and people from falling from it.

3. What size dock plate do I need?

For the width, the dock board or plate should be around 12-18 inches wider than your widest piece of equipment. On dock boards, the curbs take up about 6 inches of width. You should also note the dock height and the height of the truck that will be unloaded and loaded.

Editor's Notes

During our loading dock plates research, we found 24 loading dock plates products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,825 customer reviews through our big data system to write the loading dock plates list. We found that most customers choose loading dock plates with an average price of $361.14.

The loading dock plates are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of loading dock plates, including Guardian, Vestil, Eagle, Global Industrial. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 450 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.