Dry Van Storage – The Ideal Trailer Access Ladder Solution

When additional on-site storage is needed, a dry van trailer—a type of semi-trailer—often serves as a practical and secure temporary solution. Commonly used at construction sites, warehouses, and event venues, these trailers provide ample space to store equipment, tools, and supplies while keeping them easily accessible. Unlike ground-level storage containers, semi-trailers sit elevated off the ground—typically around 40 to 52 inches—making frequent access a challenge. Without a safe and efficient means of entry, climbing in and out of a trailer can pose safety risks and slow down productivity. This is where a reliable trailer access ladder, like Upside Innovations’ SemiStep, becomes essential, offering a stable and OSHA-compliant solution to ensure quick, secure access to elevated trailers.

Use Semi-Trailers as the Foundation of Your Storage Strategy

Many businesses already use semi-trailers for transportation purposes, renting or leasing them as needed to ship materials and products. However, semi-trailers can also serve as a cost-effective storage solution and can be found used for as low as $1,500. By parking one or more enclosed semi-trailers on-site or at a nearby location, companies can store excess inventory, equipment, or seasonal items without the expense of renting additional warehouse space or expanding facilities. This approach offers several key benefits:

• Large Capacity: Semi-trailers offer significantly more storage space compared to other options, making them ideal for storing large quantities of goods.
• Mobility: Trailers can be relocated as needed using a semi-truck, providing flexibility in managing storage locations.
• Accessibility: Large doors allow for easy loading and unloading, often aligning with loading docks for added convenience.
• Weather Protection: Properly sealed trailers protect stored items from rain, snow, and other elements.
• Security: Sturdy, lockable trailers help safeguard contents from theft and weather-related damage.

For businesses without on-site space, semi-trailers can be parked on leased land nearby, providing an offsite “warehouse” that is both secure and cost-effective. This approach is particularly advantageous for businesses with fluctuating storage needs, as they can easily add or remove trailers to match seasonal demand or market conditions.

SemiStep: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Access to Semi-Trailers

While semi-trailers offer numerous benefits as storage units, accessing them can be challenging due to their elevated height. Upside Innovations’ SemiStep provides a practical solution designed specifically for trailer access. With its lightweight, portable design and OSHA-compliant features, SemiStep allows employees to safely and efficiently enter and exit trailers, reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls.

Key Features:

• Height Options: Designed for trailers with a 40” rise (dock height) or 48” off-ground access.
• Dimensions: 47-1/2” wide, with a tread depth of 9.5” and an 8” riser height, ensuring comfortable, ergonomic steps.
• Lightweight and Portable: Weighing only 72 lbs., the SemiStep can be easily repositioned as needed.
• Slip-Resistant Grip-Strut Tread: Serrated aluminum surface ensures safe footing, even in wet or icy conditions.
• Removable Handrails: Handrails can be detached for storage or transport.
• Compliance: Fully OSHA-compliant, ensuring safety in workplace environments.
• Easy Installation: Comes pre-assembled—no tools or professional installation required.

Load Capacity:

• Supports up to 300 lbs. point load or 100 lbs. per square foot, accommodating heavy equipment and frequent use.

Advantages of Using SemiStep for Semi-Trailer Access

• Safety: OSHA compliance ensures that your site meets safety regulations, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
• Efficiency: Quick and stable access saves time and improves workflow.
• Portability: Lightweight aluminum construction allows the stairs to be easily moved aside when closing trailer doors.
• Durability: Aluminum resists rust, warping, and rotting, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Use Cases: More Than Just Trailer Access

While the SemiStep is ideal for semi-trailer access, its modular design and portability make it suitable for various temporary access needs across different industries:

1. Semi-Trailers and Flatbed Trailers: Perfect for loading and unloading equipment, materials, or goods on job sites and warehouses.

2. Office Trailers: Provides safe entry and exit for modular and mobile office units on construction sites, remote job sites, and temporary setups. Stairs for mobile office trailers or modular offices

3. Storage Containers: Facilitates quick access to elevated storage containers, commonly used for on-site equipment and inventory storage.

Upside’s Access Solutions for Cold Storage Buildings

When it comes to safely accessing semi-trailers and other elevated storage units, the SemiStep trailer access ladder is the perfect combination of durability, safety, and convenience. Lightweight yet sturdy, it ensures OSHA-compliant access, improves efficiency, and enhances safety on job sites. Whether you’re unloading heavy equipment from a semi-trailer or accessing a temporary office trailer, trust SemiStep to provide secure, slip-resistant access every time.

FAQ