Cross-docking made easy

Cross-docking equipment helps companies meet customers' demands for quick and accurate product delivery.

By Staff -- Logistics Management, 10/1/1998

Cross-docking--the movement of goods from the receiving dock directly to the loading dock, without being stored in a warehouse or distribution center--allows companies to expedite the flow of products to their customers. To make sure this process runs smoothly, it's important that shippers choose the right equipment.

Shippers today can choose from a wide array of equipment, ranging from automatic-identification technology to carousels to dock levelers. The following is just a sample of what's currently available.

Serco has introduced the "Versa-Dock XL" hydraulic dock leveler, which facilitates loading and unloading of high-cube "low boy" and conventional trailers at a single dock position. The Versa-Dock XL allows nine-foot wide access for below-dock loading.

Versa-Dock XL features 12-inch wide hydraulically adjustable bumpers on both sides of a standard-width leveler. To service low high-cube trailers, the leveler and bumpers are lowered in tandem to provide access to eight-foot wide racks without restrictions or obstructions.

According to the manufacturer, the Versa-Dock eliminates the need for dedicated docks or truck-leveling devices to service van-width loaded trailers and reduces risk of cargo damage and unsafe loading/unloading practices.

The Versa-Dock features push-button operation, regenerative hydraulics, and a powered-in/powered-out lip and hydraulic safety stop.