Overview
The M-Series loading dock lifts are specifically designed for use with non-powered transport devices such as two-wheel dollies, hand carts, or hand pallet trucks. With capacities ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 lbs. and platform sizes from 6′ x 8′ to 8′ x 10′, these lifts accommodate a variety of loads. The 59″ vertical travel allows easy access to truck beds and docks of different heights. These lifts can be recessed in a pit for ground-level lowering or surface-mounted on a concrete pad — with an optional ramp for grade-level access.
Three models are available — DDL5-59M (5,000 lbs), DDL6-59M (6,000 lbs), and DL8-59M (8,000 lbs). Model DDL5-59 and DDL6-59 M-Series Dock Lifts feature Southworth's exclusive Dura-Dock construction — galvanized base and legs for maximum corrosion resistance. All three use a push-button control pendant with a 20-foot coil cord operated from inside the building.
Features & Benefits
The M-Series is built for reliable, long-term performance in demanding dock environments. All Southworth dock lifts are manufactured with structurally reinforced heavy steel plate platforms to minimize deflection. Wide-base design provides increased rigidity and stability. The checkered plate deck delivers improved traction underfoot, and beveled toe guards protect workers and equipment at platform edges.
The hydraulic system is designed for control and safety. Oversized, low-pressure hydraulic cylinders and heavy-duty hoses with burst strength four times greater than operating pressure are standard. A flow control valve with adjustable lowering time and excess flow protection ensure a controlled, safe descent. The pre-wired power unit and control panel come ready to connect, including a weatherproof NEMA 4 push-button control pendant. Removable steel handrails with mid-rail, a 4-inch side-kick plate, and a safety chain are included. A maintenance strut supports the lift during service. All Southworth dock lifts carry a full two-year warranty on parts and labor, plus a 10-year structural warranty.
- Approach ramp
- Pop-up wheel chocks
- Weather proof power unit cover
- Audible signal
- Flashing Light
- NEMA 1 control panel
- NEMA 4 up/down handheld pushbutton control
- NEMA 1 pushbutton station
- Bellows Skirting
Contact us for more information on accessories!
Hinged Bridge Plate (one steel bridge with lifting chain included in base price)
- Additional 18” x 60” steel bridge plate
- Upgrade from 18” x 60” steel to Aluminum
- Additional 18” x 60” Aluminum
- Change to Split bridge plate
- 180 degree bridge plate
Approach Ramp
DL5‐59M & DL6‐59M 60” wide x 72” long x 8” height
(1/4” diamond tread plate)
Handrails
Upgrade to Aluminum Handrails
Night Locks
- Mechanical wheel chock (120” min length required)
- Bellows skirting
- Roller shade
Electric
- NEMA 1 WMPB control ‐ No Cord (in lieu of std)
- Up/Down key selector switch (in lieu of std)
- Up/Down HHPB w/ key lockout(in lieu of std)
- Up limitswitch (mounted & wired)
- Flashing light
- Warning bell, 2 second
- NEMA 4 Quick Disc for control (plug & receptacle in box)
Power unit
- 5 hp 230/1/60 single phase power unit
- Power unit covers (Not NEMA rated)
- Oil Immersion heater
Hydraulic
- Velocity fuses (in lieu of EFP)
- Manual down valve
- Additional Oil
- Additional Hyd hose ‐‐‐ ½” diameter
- Additional Hyd hose ‐‐‐ ¾” diameter
Applications
The M-Series works best wherever non-powered transport devices are in use and the height gap between your dock and incoming vehicles varies significantly. It performs across:
- Distribution and fulfillment centers receiving vans, small trucks, and tractor trailers where nearly 5 feet of travel range accommodates a wide variety of truck types
- Facilities without a raised dock that need to move product from ground level to truck bed height using hand carts or pallet trucks
- Operations replacing ramps and inclines — loads on dock lifts are always kept level, making transport safer and easier than traveling up or down grades
- Pit-mounted installations where the platform lowers flush to grade for ground-level access, including package delivery and small vehicle operations
- Pad-mounted installations on existing concrete surfaces where pit construction is not an option, combined with an optional grade-level access ramp
- New construction projects where a concrete hole form can be positioned prior to pouring the dock approach
Selection Assistance
Choose between three M-Series models based on your load capacity and platform needs. All three provide 59 inches of vertical travel on a standard 72" x 96" platform, upgradeable to 96" x 120". All M-Series lifts operate on standard voltages of 208/230/460V, 3-phase. Southworth Products provides pit plans upon receipt of order and includes installation and service manuals with dock lift shipment. Barron Equipment has been installing and servicing loading dock scissor lifts across Iowa and the Midwest for over 43 years. Whether you're replacing aging equipment or outfitting a new dock opening, our team can help identify the right model and handle the full installation. Contact Barron to request a quote or schedule a site assessment.