Suitcase Access Ramps

Suitcase access ramps are access ramps that are designed for convenience in mind and also for compactness as they are not called suitcase access ramps for nothing.  Suitcase access ramps are thus designed to be folded in half, lengthwise and more often than not have built-in carrying handles allowing them to be carried like suitcases, as their name states when not in use. 

Suitcase access ramps come in a variety of sizes.  The larger suitcase access ramp models work for vehicle loading.  Suitcase access ramps are typically constructed of lightweight material such as anodized aluminum that renders them light enough to offer ultimate portability yet robust enough to support weights of up to 700 pounds.  The surface of suitcase access ramps are usually lined with rubber or rubber-like material to prevent accidental slipping when in use.

Suitcase access ramps basically come in two variants.  The standard suitcase access ramp which is a convenient single-folding access ramp that when folded is carried around just like a suitcase.  These are usually of a folding, telescopic type that can be unfolded quickly and can be efficiently adjusted to the required length without much huffing and puffing. 

Conversely, there is also a wider style platform-like type that is wide enough to enable easy use with wheelchairs, powerchairs as well as mobility scooters.  However, a simple alignment is required to be performed upon approaching the access ramp.  Caregivers who are pushing manual wheelchairs up the ramp will definitely find it easier to negotiate as they themselves can walk up the ramp.  In some cases, pre-drilling holes into the ground or floor for affixing the suitcase access ramp to the floor for added security are provided should the need arise.  Thus, suitcase access ramps can be easily modified from being portable access ramps to a semi-permanent access ramp which will securely stay in position until it is unscrewed from position.

Suitcase access ramps, which are a type of portable access ramps can often prove to be a cost-effective solution as they are not only sturdy but also lightweight.  Besides being ideal in bridging the gap from one landing to another on uneven terrain or steps, suitcase access ramps are also excellent for curbs, porches and office building entrances.  In addition to this, suitcase access ramps are also particularly useful when transporting wheelchairs, powerchairs or mobility scooters in and out of vehicles.  Suitcase access ramps can set one back at least USD $100.00 for a modestly sized unit to hundreds of dollars for bigger and wider units.

Although the main attraction of the suitcase access ramp is its single-folding feature that allows it to be folded in half to resemble a suitcase, this feature can work against it as well.  As the suitcase access ramp folds in the middle, the actual length of the access ramp will also determine the size of the suitcase being carried.  This would mean that the longer (or wider) the suitcase access ramp, the longer (and wider) the suitcase.  Therefore, what was supposed to be convenient can prove to be inconvenient in view of this fact.  However, there are also tri-fold access ramp units available that can effectively reduce the size of the suitcase.  Careful consideration should always be taken when assessing the size of the access ramp required.