What To Look for When Choosing Truck Ramps for Easy Loading

If you own a pickup truck, the chances are good that you’ve had trouble getting something into the bed at some point. Whether you have dirtbikes, ATVs, equipment, or other heavy items, it isn’t always possible to lift them up and get them over the tailgate. Truck ramps are a great way to increase your ability to haul different items and avoid hurting your back in the process. Before you decide on a set of truck ramps, though, it’s important to know what qualities to look for. By knowing how to choose the right truck ramps for easy loading, you can be sure you’re making the right choice for yourself and your pickup. 

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is perhaps the most important quality to look for in a set of truck ramps. You need to be sure that the ramps can handle the kinds of items you’re looking to use on them. Be sure to take the entire load into consideration, including the item and any cargo it might be carrying. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and get ramps with a higher capacity than you think you’ll need. While they’ll be a little heavier, it’ll be well worth it the next time you’re trying to load something that weighs more than you expected.

Materials

When shopping for truck ramps, be sure to look for materials that are built to last and can withstand all kinds of use and abuse over the years. While aluminum will be lighter and easier to maneuver, it may not have the weight capacity you need. Steel can take a large payload and is more durable, but it will also be a lot heavier and more difficult to get into position. Depending on what you plan to put on the ramps, one material will most likely be more suitable than another.

Length and Incline

The incline of the ramps is a crucial consideration and will change depending on the height of your truck bed. The higher your truck is off the ground, the longer the ramps will have to be. This is especially true if you’re going to be pushing heavy items up into your pickup’s bed. The longer the ramp is, the gentler the incline will be, which can make the truck a lot easier to load. However, longer ramps are more difficult to store and may not be as maneuverable in off-road situations where space is at a premium. Finding a good balance between length and storability should be a top priority when it comes to truck ramps.

Design

There are all kinds of different truck ramp designs available and each of them has its own set of pros and cons. If, for example, you’re looking for the most portability, an F-150 folding ramp is a good option. Arched ramps provide more clearance if your truck is particularly low to the ground. Knowing how you plan on using your ramps and what you plan on putting on them will help you choose a design that will offer excellent functionality and convenient storage,

Safety Features

Safety is a key concern for anyone who is going to be using truck ramps to haul items like recreational vehicles or heavy-duty tools and equipment. Look for safety features in any set of truck ramps you’re thinking of buying. Things like stabilizing straps and hooks will prevent the ramps from moving around when they are under load. Side rails prevent the wheels of different recreational vehicles from sliding off the surface. Locking mechanisms will ensure that folding ramps have the stability you need to stay safe. With the right features, you can rest easy whenever you’re loading up something heavy.

Portability

Portability is another important feature of truck ramps. You want to be able to carry the ramps with you and still have enough room for your motorcycles or ATVs and any other equipment you want to carry. This means looking for ramps made of relatively lightweight materials that are small enough to fit in the bed along with all the other items you want. However, you should never sacrifice durability for portability. The right balance between the two qualities will ensure that you can make the most of your ramps while staying safe in the process. If you’re looking for the perfect truck ramps for easy loading, AmericanTrucks has you covered. With plenty of designs and materials to choose from as well as fast shipping, you can head out for your next adventure without the wait.