Swing Doors

What are Swing Doors?

Swing doors, also known as hinged doors, are one of the most common types of doors used on trucks. Typically, a pair of swing doors is installed at the rear of a truck, opening outward on hinges mounted on the sides.

These doors are manually operated and provide full access to the cargo area when both doors are open, facilitating easy loading and unloading of goods. Swing doors are often seen on semi-trailers, box trucks, and refrigerated trucks, among others.

Benefits of Swing Doors

Swing doors offer a number of advantages that make them a mainstay in the trucking industry:

Accessibility: When fully open, swing doors provide unobstructed access to the entire width of the cargo area, making loading and unloading easier, especially for large or bulky items.

Sealing: Swing doors generally offer better sealing capabilities compared to roll-up doors, making them ideal for refrigerated trucks or transporting sensitive cargo that requires consistent internal conditions.

Durability: Swing doors are usually robust and reliable. Made from durable materials like steel, aluminum, or reinforced plastics, they can withstand considerable wear and tear.

Cost and Maintenance: Swing doors are typically less complex and cheaper to maintain than other types of doors due to their fewer moving parts.

Maintenance of Swing Doors

Despite their simplicity and durability, swing doors require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity:

Inspection: Regularly inspect the doors for any visible signs of damage or wear. Pay particular attention to the hinges, seals, and locking mechanism.

Cleaning: Keep the doors clean to prevent the build-up of dirt or grime that could affect the sealing or locking mechanisms.

Lubrication: Lubricate the hinges and locks regularly to ensure smooth operation and prevent rusting or seizing.

Professional Servicing: If any serious issues arise, it’s advisable to have the doors serviced by a professional to maintain safety and functionality.

Safety Practices

Proper safety practices should always be observed when using swing doors:

Clearance Check: Before opening the doors, ensure there is sufficient clearance behind the truck to prevent damage or injuries.

Secure Open Doors: When both doors are open, secure them properly to prevent unexpected closing due to wind or uneven ground.

Proper Closing: Close the doors firmly to ensure the locking mechanism is engaged and the cargo is secured.

Learn about Roll Up Doors here.
Learn about Lift Gate here.
Learn about Load Bars here.
Learn about Cargo Straps here.