What are vehicle ramps used for?

Vehicle ramps (also called kerb ramps, loading ramps, or car ramps) are used to bridge level changes and allow vehicles, trolleys, forklifts, and wheelchairs to cross kerbs, steps, and uneven surfaces. Common applications include bridging kerbs at loading bays, providing temporary access over road humps or speed cushions, enabling vehicle access across footpaths, and creating smooth transitions between dock levellers and lorry beds. In the UK, vehicle ramps are also widely used to provide wheelchair-accessible paths over kerbs in public spaces.

What load capacity do I need for a vehicle ramp?

Load capacity is the most critical specification. Pedestrian and wheelchair ramps typically require 150–300 kg capacity. Pallet truck ramps need 2,000–3,000 kg. Forklift vehicle ramps require 5,000–10,000 kg or more. Always use the gross vehicle weight (GVW) of the heaviest vehicle that will use the ramp, including its load. Do not use a ramp rated for lighter vehicles — this is a serious safety risk and a potential breach of PUWER 1998.

Are there regulations for vehicle ramps in the UK?

Yes. Vehicle ramps used in workplaces are subject to the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), which requires that equipment is suitable for its intended use and regularly inspected and maintained. HSE guidance also requires ramps to be non-slip, clearly load-rated, and secured against movement during use. For ramps used on public highways or footways, local authority approval may be required. Ramps providing disabled access must comply with the Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Part M.

What materials are vehicle ramps made from?

Vehicle ramps are manufactured in three main materials: rubber (for lightweight, portable kerb ramps and cable protectors); recycled plastic (for medium-duty kerb ramps, driveway ramps, and temporary access); and steel or aluminium (for heavy-duty loading ramps, dock ramps, and forklift vehicle access). Rubber and plastic ramps are ideal for temporary or surface-mounted use without fixings; steel ramps are used where high load capacity or permanent installation is required.

Can I use a vehicle ramp on a public pavement in the UK?

Using a ramp on a public pavement typically requires permission from the local highway authority under the Highways Act 1980. Temporary ramps for events or short-duration works may be permitted under a highways licence. Permanent kerb ramps for vehicle access to private property usually require a dropped kerb application to the local council. Always check with your local authority before installing a vehicle ramp on public highway land.

Vehicle Ramps

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Last updated: May 2026. Written by the BarriersCo technical team.

Vehicle Ramps UK — Loading Ramps, Kerb Ramps & Access Ramps

Vehicle ramps bridge the gap — literally. From portable rubber kerb ramps that allow cars to access driveways over high kerbs, to heavy-duty steel loading ramps capable of supporting 10-tonne forklift trucks, BarriersCo supplies a comprehensive range of vehicle access ramps for commercial, industrial, and public sector applications across the UK.

Whether you're looking for a temporary access solution for an event, a permanent loading bay ramp for a distribution centre, or a kerb ramp to improve accessibility, our technical team can specify the right product for your load, frequency of use, and site conditions.

Types of Vehicle Ramp

Rubber Kerb Ramps

Lightweight, portable rubber ramps for bridging standard kerbs (75–150 mm height). Self-weighted by their rubber mass — no fixing required for normal use. Non-slip textured surface on both the ramp face and the underside to prevent movement. Suitable for cars, vans, motorcycles, and light goods vehicles. Can be bolted down where a permanent installation is required. Often used at car park entrances, site access points, and event venues where kerb access is needed. Load capacity typically 3,000–10,000 kg depending on the model.

Plastic Kerb Ramps & Loading Ramps

Recycled polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene ramps offer excellent durability and resistance to weather, chemicals, and UV degradation. Available in modular sections that can be combined to suit any kerb height or transition length. Heavier-duty than rubber for repeated use by pallet trucks and light forklifts. Yellow or black/yellow colouring for high visibility. Ideal for loading bays, warehouse entrances, and temporary site access.

Steel & Aluminium Loading Ramps

For heavy-duty commercial and industrial applications, steel and aluminium ramps provide the highest load capacity and longest service life. Dock leveller ramps bridge the gap between warehouse loading bays and lorry beds. Folding ramp designs allow quick deployment and storage. Non-slip checker plate or grip mesh surface. Rated capacities from 3,000 kg to 25,000 kg. Must be inspected and maintained under PUWER 1998.

Threshold Ramps & Accessibility Ramps

Low-profile rubber or aluminium threshold ramps for bridging doorstep lips, thresholds, and small level changes. Essential for providing wheelchair and mobility scooter access in compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Part M. Heights from 10 mm to 75 mm, lengths from 200 mm to 1,200 mm.

Key Applications

Loading bays & warehouses — Bridging lorry beds and dock floors; smoothing transitions for pallet trucks
Driveways & car parks — Kerb access ramps for private and commercial properties
Construction sites — Temporary vehicle access across kerbs and footpaths
Events & festivals — Temporary access ramps for generators, vehicles, and accessible pathways
Retail & commercial premises — Disabled access threshold ramps under Equality Act 2010
Airports & logistics hubs — Ground support equipment access ramps at airside/landside boundaries

Vehicle Ramp Buying Guide

Calculate the load — Use gross vehicle weight (GVW) including payload. Never specify a ramp rated below the heaviest vehicle that will use it.
Measure the height change — Kerb ramps are available for heights from 25 mm to 200 mm+. Ensure the ramp is rated for your specific kerb or step height.
Assess frequency of use — For occasional use, rubber or plastic ramps are cost-effective. For daily heavy forklift use, specify steel or aluminium.
Check approach angle — The ramp gradient must be gentle enough for the underside clearance of vehicles using it. Low-profile cars and vehicles with long wheelbases need shallower ramp angles.
Consider surface type — Rubber ramps grip asphalt and concrete well. Where the ramp is on a slippery surface (wet concrete, polished screed), choose a ramp with integral anti-slip strips or bolt it down.
Plan for PUWER compliance — For workplace use, ramp inspection, load ratings, and maintenance records are required under PUWER 1998.

UK Standards & Compliance

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) — All ramps used in the workplace must be suitable for their intended use, maintained in safe condition, and inspected regularly. Load ratings must be clearly marked.
HSE Guidance — Workplace Transport Safety — Covers loading bay safety, including ramp design, condition, and safe operating procedures.
Highways Act 1980 — Any ramp installed on or crossing a public highway requires prior approval from the local highway authority.
Building Regulations Part M / Equality Act 2010 — Accessibility ramps for disabled access must meet gradient, width, and surface requirements specified in Approved Document M.