A loading dock is pivotal to companies that rely on the safe transportation of goods and materials. Here at Clayton Concrete Pumping & Backhoe, we pump concrete for businesses in Oklahoma City and Tulsa area. If you are a company that needs a loading dock, you will need a solid foundation for the docks.

Here are some other things to consider when building a loading dock:

1. Location – Since your loading dock is going to be used often, top-level security is incredibly important. You want your loading dock to be efficient, but most importantly, you want it to be safe for your employees to use. If you can separate it from general parking, that would provide more security.
2. Vehicle Accommodation – When mapping out the size of the concrete for the loading dock, you’ll need to consider how much space a truck needs to back in. Also, you should consider how much space you’ll need for other large trucks to get past parked trucks.
3. Slab Thickness – The thickness of a concrete slab is usually determined by the amount of weight it will hold. For example, most sidewalks are 4 inches thick and driveways are around 6 inches thick. However, in order to support the weight of heavy loads, you will need a slab that is a minimum of 10 inches to 12 inches thick. Also, the slab must be able to hold the weight of dock levelers while the loaded truck is parked.

Other considerations to think of regarding the slab thickness is the soil conditions. Softer soils will require a thicker slab to support the weight of a load.

Do You Need Concrete Pouring?

If you need concrete poured for a loading dock, Clayton Concrete Pumping & Backhoe can help you. Our skilled operators help business owners and residents in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and surrounding areas. Call us now so we can get someone out to help you.