Articulating stairs, or self-adjusting gangways, bridge loading platforms to tanker trucks and railcars. These systems are essential for operations around Alberta and BC, especially when handling mixed fleets or frequent vehicle mis-spotting. However, selecting the right system isn’t simply about choosing between SAS, SFR, and FRT configurations. A successful installation requires careful measurement, specification validation, and alignment with your site’s operational realities. This buyer’s guide walks you through the process of selecting a gangway, from initial site assessment through final specifications. Keep reading to learn more!

Looking for more information about how articulating stairs work? Read our previous posts:The Best Articulating Stairs for Safe Loading Operations and Why Articulating Stairs are Right for Your Worksite.

How to Choose the Right Articulating Stairs: Step-by-Step 

Many existing operations would benefit from adding articulating stairs to their site. However, choosing the right model can be tough–especially if you don’t know what to watch out for. Let’s walk through it, step by step. 

Step 1: Take Accurate Measurements

Accurate measurements are the foundation of your system. Before you start shopping, make sure you have these details on hand:

•  Lowest hatch height
• Highest hatch height
• Horizontal reach (especially if you experience frequent mis-spotting)
• Size limitations of existing platforms

Step 2: Assess Your Operations

Your site’s daily realities also play a crucial role in finding the right system. We recommend documenting the vehicles that consistently use your loading bay:

• Truck types: Box trucks, tankers, hoppers—each trailer type has different hatch heights and loading profiles.
• Railcar types: Covered hoppers (which need FRT-style telescoping access), liquid tankers, and flat cars also need different accommodations.
• Height consistency: Do all vehicles in a category arrive at roughly the same height, or is there significant variation between loads?

If heights are consistent, a Simple Flat Ramp (SFR) is cost-effective and low-maintenance. If heights vary by load, load condition, or suspension state, a Self-Adjusting Stair (SAS) with self-levelling is worth the investment.

Additionally, you should track how often vehicles park off-center or at the wrong hatch locations. Monitor frequency, re-spotting time, and any associated safety risks. If mis-spotting is rare and re-spotting is quick, opt for a stationary gangway. If it’s frequent (more than once per shift), a track-mounted gangway can help significantly increase the efficiency of your site.

Step 3: Decide on Key Features & Specifications

Now that you have a clear sense of your site’s size and needs, you can finalize additional features of your articulating stair system, including: 

• Gangway width and load ratings
• Safety cage design
• Power and control systems
• Materials 
• Compatibility with existing systems, including loading arms. 

Questions to Ask Before Buying 

In order to find the ideal system for your site, ask yourself these questions: 

• What is the height range of vehicles at your loading bays? Do these heights vary? Measure from the platform deck to typical hatch heights for both trucks and railcars. Include minimum and maximum heights to ensure adequate adjustment range.
• How frequently do vehicles mis-spot? If re-positioning happens more often than not, track-mounted or FRT configurations will save significant time and frustration.
• What are your platform space constraints? Existing platforms may limit gangway width, cage depth, or track length. Northern Platforms can engineer solutions to fit tight spaces.
• Do you need multiple gangways? High-volume facilities may require multiple articulating stair systems. Northern Platforms can design coordinated installations for maximum efficiency.

How to Choose the Right Articulating Stairs

Once you’ve answered all the questions above, you should have a clear understanding of your top priorities. Use these insights to make an informed decision about your articulating stairs. Still not sure which option is right for you? Use this table to help make your decision: 

Your Situation	Recommended System	Why It Works
Mixed truck heights, frequent vehicle changes	SAS (Self-Adjusting Stairs)	Self-levels to any height; stairs provide a solid foundation
Liquid railcar loading with mis-spotting issues	FRT (Flat Ramp Telescoping)	Can reach offset hatches; eliminates re-spots
Hopper cars or trucks with consistent heights	SFR (Simple Flat Ramp)	Simple, stable, low-maintenance solution for predictable applications
Multiple vehicle types and unpredictable positioning	SAS with track mounting	Combines height adjustment with a flexible track
LPG, asphalt, or chemical loading requiring quick access	SAS with power assist	Fast deployment and retraction; reduces manual handling

Why Choose Northern Platforms

Northern Platforms is Western Canada’s leading supplier of safe access solutions, including SafeRack articulating stairs and gangway systems. We offer:

• Expert site assessment: Our team conducts thorough measurements and site evaluations, ensuring specifications match your operational realities.
• Turnkey installation: From design through final safety testing, we handle the complete build and integration process.
• Preventive maintenance and support: Our maintenance contracts minimize downtime and extend system lifespan, critical for high-cycle operations and harsh Western Canadian conditions.
• Local presence: Based in Alberta, we can be on your site within hours.

Contact Us Today!

Ready to get started? Northern Platforms is here to help. Call our office or request a quote through our website now.