- Automatic vs. Manual Vehicle Restraints: Which is Right for Your Loading Bay?
- 5 Questions You Should Ask Before Specifying Loading Bays
- Telescopic vs Swing Lip Dock Levellers: Which Is Right for Your Loading Bay?
- Wheel Guides: Helping You Dock with Precision
- Stertil Launches VARIFLEET Telescopic Dock Leveller for Vans and Commercial Vehicles
- How To Safely Use Dock Levellers For Smoother Loading Operations
- Stertil Launches Combilok M1 Advanced Vehicle Restraint System
- Stertil Enhances Loading Bay Safety With The New Electric WHEELCHOK System
- Stertil to Demonstrate COMBILOK® Vehicle Restraint System at YARDX 2025
Automatic vs. Manual Vehicle Restraints: Which is Right for Your Site?
01/09/25 | News 2025
Vehicle movement is one of the greatest risks in any loading bay.
Trailer creep and premature drive-offs can lead to serious accidents, damaging both equipment and injuring workers.
For sites looking to prevent this, both automatic and manual vehicle restraints are effective options – but which should you choose?
Here’s what you need to know about vehicles restraints, and how you choose the right one for your site:
Why Vehicle Restraints Matter
In simple terms, vehicle restraints keep trailers securely in place throughout loading and unloading.
By locking the trailer in position - typically by using a blocking arm - they prevent:
- Drivers accidentally pulling away while a trailer is still being loaded.
- Trailer creep caused by repeated forklift movements.
- Miscommunication between warehouse staff and drivers.
While all vehicle restraints aim to stop trailer movement, there are some important differences between systems.
So which type best suits your site?
Automatic Vehicle Restraints
Automatic vehicle restraints, such as the Stertil COMBILOK®, secure the rear wheel with an extending chock that presses firmly against the tyre at the push of a button.
Once engaged, they prevent any movement until the system is released.
Benefits include:
- Fully automated engagement with minimal operator input.
- Driver-proof: consistent and reliable performance.
- Integration with other loading dock equipment.
Best suited for:
- Busy distribution centres.
- High-throughput operations.
- Sites running multiple bays simultaneously.
Manual Vehicle Restraints
Manual systems, like the Stertil COMBILOK® M1, work on the same principle but require an operator to position and engage the restraint.
Benefits include:
- Lower upfront investment compared to automated systems.
- Straightforward installation and operation.
- Effective protection when used correctly.
Points to consider:
- Requires consistent staff training.
- Dependent on procedures being followed every time.
Best suited for:
- Smaller warehouses.
- Lower traffic sites.
- Facilities balancing safety with budget.
Comparing Automatic vs. Manual Restraints
| Factor | Automatic Restraints (COMBILOK) | Manual Restraints (COMBILOK M1) |
| Safety | Automated engagement reduces human error. | Relies on operator action and training. |
| Ease of Use | Push-button activation, fully integrated. | Requires manual positioning by staff. |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost, long-term efficiency. | Lower upfront cost, suitable for smaller budgets. |
| Throughput Suitability | Ideal for high-volume, multi-bay sites. | Best for lower-volume, occasional use. |
| System Integration | Interlocks with dock doors, lights, and levellers. | COMBILOK M1 interlocks, though most manual systems are standalone with less integration. |
Which Option is Right for Your Loading Bay?
Both automatic and manual restraints provide robust protection and significantly improve loading bay safety.
- Choose automatic if you run a busy site, need seamless integration, and want to minimise reliance on staff actions.
- Choose manual if you have fewer bays, lower traffic, or want a cost-effective solution that still meets safety needs.
Are there any other options?
For sites with minimal traffic or where budgets are especially tight, the entry-level Stertil WHEELCHOK® provides a more basic form of vehicle restraint.
While it is the most economical solution, it offers a lower level of safety compared to COMBILOK systems and is best suited for specific low-risk applications.
Still Need Advice?
Every loading bay is different, and the right solution depends on your operational priorities.
Stertil offers the full range, from the advanced COMBILOK and practical COMBILOK M1 to the entry-level WHEELCHOK, ensuring there’s a safe, reliable option for every site.
Want to find out which system is right for you? Contact Stertil for tailored advice.
Contact Stertil on 08707 700471, or email info@stertil.co.uk.
