Which is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing a mobile yard ramp—also known as a forklift ramp or portable loading dock ramp—mobility is key. But not all wheels are created equal.
At The Yard Ramp Guy, our mobile ramps come equipped with either pneumatic rubber tires or solid caster wheels, and each option has its own set of advantages and trade-offs.
In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each wheel type to help you make the best decision for your facility, including the terrain and your operational needs.
Pneumatic Rubber Tires
These are air-filled tires, similar to what you’d find on a car or a heavy-duty cart.
✅ Advantages
- Superior Shock Absorption: Great for uneven or rough outdoor surfaces like gravel, asphalt, or dirt.
- Smooth Mobility: Easier to maneuver over bumps, cracks, and inclines.
- Better Traction: Ideal for outdoor use in variable weather conditions.
⚠️ Disadvantages
- Maintenance Required: Like any air-filled tire, they can go flat or lose pressure over time.
- Heavier and Bulkier: Adds weight and may require more effort to reposition the ramp.
- Higher Cost: Typically, more expensive than caster wheels due to materials and construction.
Caster Wheels
These are solid, often polyurethane or steel-core wheels designed for smooth, flat surfaces.
✅ Advantages
- Low Maintenance: No air = no flats. These wheels are built to last with minimal upkeep.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easier to store and reposition in tight indoor spaces.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than pneumatic options.
⚠️ Disadvantages
- Limited Terrain Use: Best suited for smooth, level surfaces like warehouse floors or paved lots.
- Less Shock Absorption: Can be jarring on uneven ground, which may affect ramp stability or forklift handling.
- Reduced Traction: Not ideal for wet or slippery outdoor conditions.
Which Should You Choose?
In general:
- Go with pneumatic tires if your ramp will be used outdoors, on uneven terrain, or in variable weather.
- Choose caster wheels if your ramp will stay indoors, on smooth concrete, and you want low-maintenance mobility.
Of course, all scenarios are different. Still unsure? Our team at The Yard Ramp Guy is happy to help you evaluate your specific use case and recommend the best ramp configuration for your needs.
| Feature | Aluminum Ramp | Steel Ramp |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | ~16,000–20,000 lbs (some heavy-duty models up to 25,000 lbs) | ~20,000–30,000+ lbs (50,000 lbs+ for heavy duty models) |
| Ramp Weight | ~2,000–3,000 lbs | ~4,200–7,000 lbs |
| Ease of Mobility | Easier to move/position; often requires only a forklift and less effort. Possibility for 2-3 workers to manually move smaller sized ramsps. | Harder to move; typically needs a forklift or yard tractor, more effort due to higher weight |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent — naturally resists rust and corrosion without coatings | Fair — must be painted or powder-coated to prevent rust; regular maintenance required |
| Durability Under Heavy Impact | Good, but more prone to dents and gouges | Excellent — resists deformation from drops or repeated heavy loads |
| Maintenance | Low — occasional cleaning | Moderate — repainting or touch-ups to prevent rust |
| Average Cost (30′ w/Level-Off) | $21,500–$24,000 | $17,000–$21,000 |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years with proper use | 15–20+ years with proper use |
| Best For | Operating environment requiring mobile flexibility, wet/humid/coastal climates, moderate-heavy forklift use | Heavy-duty industrial use, stationary applications, high-capacity forklifts |
