Ratchet Deck Trailers are curtain-sided trailers fitted with a forklift-operated, multi-positional secondary deck system. Designed and built exclusively by Don-Bur (Registered Design 2001), the system provides an adjustable double-deck solution for operators running mixed freight within 44 tonne legislation.
The mechanical ratchet mechanism allows the secondary deck to be positioned at defined incremental heights to suit varying load profiles. This enables freight that cannot ordinarily be double stacked to utilise available vertical space, improving load flexibility without hydraulic or electrical systems.
Ratchet Deck Trailers are suited to distribution environments requiring durable construction, straightforward operation and adaptable deck configurations.
Technical Specification and Compatibility
The Ratchet Deck system is engineered for durability in high-cycle distribution operations and integrates within standard curtainsided trailer structures.
- Heavy-duty steel deck construction
- Straight-frame or step-frame trailer compatibility
- Up to 4,000 kg load capacity per deck
- Incremental height positions for varied freight profiles
- Improves vertical space utilisation compared with single-deck trailers
Specification can be aligned with operational duty cycle, load type and route profile.
How the Ratchet Deck Works
A forklift engages the deck via two dedicated apertures. Raising the deck releases the ratchet locks, allowing movement to the next height increment. Once the required position is reached, the forklift is withdrawn and the mechanism automatically re-engages, securing the deck.
To lower the deck, it is first lifted to the uppermost increment to release the locks and then lowered to the chosen position. The process is entirely mechanical, avoiding hydraulic or electrical components and reducing system complexity.
Removable Deck Configuration
The secondary decks can be removed completely, enabling the trailer to revert to a conventional single-deck configuration when required.
This flexibility allows operators to adapt to seasonal demand changes, differing freight types or route-specific constraints without committing permanently to a fixed double-deck layout.
Load Restraint and Compliance Options
Body specification and load restraint arrangements can be configured to suit the transported goods and compliance requirements.
- Heavy-duty load restraint straps
- EN 12642-XL rated bodywork
- Transverse nets (kites) and side nets
- Lashing rings, anchor points and shoring bars
Restraint strategy should be defined according to load characteristics, duty cycle and applicable legislation.
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Indicative pricing & availability
Price: P.O.A.
Available to pre-order
