Beavertail

The term “beavertail” is used to define trucks and trailers which feature a beavertail style loading ramp. Trailers using beavertail style loading ramps are also referred to as “beavertails”.

Beavertail design is very popular in recovery vehicles and trucks. A beavertail ramp is also known as a dovetail ramp. It consists of a dovetail joint fold down ramp, one end of which rests on the floor, and facilitates easy unloading and loading of/by wheeled equipment/carrying tools. In case of small vehicles the loading ramp can be folded down easily by hand. For larger and heavier loads, hydraulically operated ramps are more suitable. Beavertail ramps can be used with a variety of vehicles, ranging from small pick-ups to flat-beds and large multi-axle semi trucks. Beavertail trailers are also available. Beavertail ramps can made from aluminium, steel, iron, or other materials as per the needs of the customer.

Beavertail flatbeds and commercial recovery trucks are very useful, as they make it easier to tow a damaged or broken down vehicle. One can also buy traditional trucks or recovery vehicles and then attach a beavertail ramp to them. Popular van models on which beavertail ramps are attached are the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter.