The loading and unloading of cargo, particularly in light and medium-duty applications, is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. In the evolving landscape of commercial vehicle operations, efficient cargo access remains a critical challenge for fleet operators and drivers alike. Link Manufacturing has developed a portfolio of loading solutions that addresses these challenges.
“We only sell products that we believe in and can stand behind,” says Kevin Mulvihill, general manager of U.S. Upfitters. “Link is unique in that they make a quality, trouble-free ramp. It’s U.S. made, has a great support structure and they work with us on drop shipping, so we have just-in-time responsiveness, allowing us to quickly meet our customers’ needs.”
THE CORNERSTONE OF CARGO ACCESS
Link’s LB20 family of ramps offers an updated design, with a 25-pound weight reduction while introducing pull-style, gas-spring-assist lifting mechanisms on seven of its nine models.
“Installation efficiency for the LB20 has also been improved through a consolidated base plate design,” said Nick VanderKooi, advanced engineer, Link Manufacturing. “The new plate, measuring 11 inches in depth, features an expanded mounting pattern that accommodates more mounting holes and fastener sizes, simplifying the installation process for upfitters. And, when professionally installed by a trained technician, it has been engineered to be used on many electric vans. Each unit now ships fully assembled, complete with attached base plate, wheels, and gas springs on applicable models.”
When stowed, the ramps occupy less than eight inches of horizontal space just inside the door, representing a 34 percent reduction in space usage and providing valuable additional cargo room. A newly engineered lower-profile transition threshold also allows for smoother movement of dollies and wheeled equipment into and out of the vehicle.
“We do vans for a large mobile medical service provider all over the country. They use the ramps to transport hospital beds and medical equipment. I strongly urged them to opt for the spring-assist version,” says Rob DeMars, director of operations and sales, American Bobtail, Inc. “After the first 50 vans were in the field without it, they called and said their workers had told them I was right about the spring-assist.”
THE SWIVEL SOLUTION
The LSR90 swivel ramp series offers flexibility with 180-degree rotation capability and dual storage positions, allowing users to adapt to various loading scenarios. Weighing between 157 and 225 lbs, they provide capacity ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 lbs while maintaining manageable handling characteristics.
“The feature we find most beneficial is Link’s spring-assist and we like the front wheel kit as well,” says Mulvihill. “If you’re getting a long ramp, you can easily open and close it when it’s spring assisted.” The LSR90 is a versatile ramp, accommodating vehicles with floor heights from 18” to 42”.
The swivel design incorporates several engineered features that enhance its utility. A quick-release latch system minimizes user effort during deployment, while a detachable rear latching mechanism enables full floor access when needed. The standard spring assist makes for smooth deployment and retraction, and the slip-resistant ridged surface helps workers maintain safer footing in all weather conditions.
SIDE DOOR INNOVATION
The LB10 side door ramp weighs between 82 and 108 lbs with a 1,000 lb capacity, this specialized ramp maximizes efficiency while minimizing space usage. The design allows for vertical storage in the dead space above the step, requiring less than 20 lbs of force for deployment.
The quick-release latch system enables rapid deployment and stowing. The ramp’s utility extends beyond its primary function, as it can serve as a transition ramp for curbs and van-to-van transfers. When collapsed, the ramp maintains a 7.5” depth profile, preserving valuable cargo space.
EXTENDED REACH
The LT30 extended ramp series provides solutions for applications requiring lower entry angles. With its 119” length and adjustable support leg, the LT30 offers enhanced flexibility for various loading scenarios. Available in three width options – 24”, 30” and 36” – the series maintains a consistent 1,000-lb capacity across all models while accommodating specific vehicle requirements from manufacturers.
“This philosophy is evident in the LT30’s adjustable leg feature, which provides options for shallow load angles crucial for certain equipment types,” says VanderKooi.
PORTABLE SOLUTIONS
The LWS40 series provides 350-500 lbs of capacity while being 30 percent lighter than its heavy-duty counterpart. The LS50 series handles more demanding applications with capacities up to 1,000 lbs. Both series offer straight and folding configurations.
A mobile X-ray service uses ramps to transport diagnostic equipment into customers’ homes. “They use the ramps to take the machine in and out of their ProMaster City vans,” says DeMars. “We do a lot of those installations as well.”
COST-EFFECTIVE VERSATILITY
The economic advantages of ramps become particularly apparent when compared to alternative loading solutions.
“A lift gate you’re looking at $4,000 to $5,000 with labor and shipping and with a ramp, you’re looking at a quarter of that cost, depending on the options,” says Mulvihill.
“I’ve never had to fix one. That’s amazing,” says DeMars. “And I’ve done a lot of ramps.”
FUTURE OF LOADING SOLUTIONS
For fleet operators, upfitters and end-users alike, meeting future loading challenges will be critical. As the commercial vehicle sector continues to evolve, particularly with the introduction of EVs and changing workforce demographics, a focus on practical innovation will ensure that ramps will remain at the forefront of cargo access solutions.
“If there are any problems with damaged equipment, they also have great support for parts. Even if customers didn’t purchase the ramp from us, Link directs them our way because they know we will take care of that customer,” says Mulvihill.
For More Information
To learn more about Link ramp products, visit www.linkramps.com.
