Getting Started with Wheelchair Ramps for Vans and Other Vehicles


man pushing lady in wheelchair up a rear door entry wheelchair van ramp.

There are many challenges that are presented when you're confined to a wheelchair, or other types of mobility equipment, and with it comes many decisions to be made to ensure you're maintaining an active lifestyle.  From ensuring your home is accessible by eliminating any obstacles that could get in the way, to making sure you're maintaining the active lifestyle outside of home and avoiding any social isolation, the process of acclimating to being in a wheelchair can be daunting.

One decision that needs to be made is how you're going to have access to your vehicles.  Whether you're traveling, running errands, or simply enjoying a day out, having this access can make all the difference in getting you where you need to go.  Will you need to completely outfit a new vehicle with built in controls that allow access, or will you only need a portable ramp that is conducive to your vehicle?

In this blog, we'll be discussing everything you need to know about Portable Wheelchair Ramps for Vehicles, including the types of ramps available, how to choose the right ramp for your needs, and tips for using and maintaining your ramp. 
We understand that selecting the right ramp can be overwhelming, which is why we compiled all the essential information in one place to help you make an informed decision.  So, whether you're a wheelchair user or a caregiver, this guide is for you!  And as always, please call our Ramp Experts at 888-307-1839 if you have any other questions come up we can help with!

If you have any questions about other wheelchair ramps, whether it may be small threshold ramps for your home, or larger modular ramps for home or business, check out our Complete Guide to Choosing Your Wheelchair Ramp to have your questions answered!


 

Table of Contents

1. Portable Ramps are Low Cost Alternatives to Lifts

2. Easy to Use and Install

3. Rust Proof Aluminum and Fiberglass Construction

4. Sized to Fit your Needs

5. Steps to Consider when Choosing your Wheelchair Van Ramp

6. Types of Wheelchair Ramps for Vans

 

Why a Portable Ramp for your Van is a Low Cost alternative to a Lift

The Portable Wheelchair Van Ramps are a low cost alternative to vehicle lifts, providing a practical and affordable solution for individuals who require mobility assistance.  Compared to lifts:

  • Van Ramps Require Minimal Modifications - Mobility Ramps for vehicles require minimal modifications to the vehicle and do not require expensive mechanical or electrical components to operate.
    • Van Ramps are Easier to Install and Maneuver - The lightweight materials used in ramp construction, such as aluminum, make them easy to install and maneuver, while still providing a sturdy and secure surface for wheelchair accessibility.

  • Van Ramps are more Versatile - Van Ramps are versatile and can be used in a wide range of situations, including outdoor settings or places with uneven terrain.  With their simple design and low maintenance requirements, wheelchair van ramps offer a cost-effective and reliable option for wheelchair accessibility.
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Wheelchair Ramps are Easy to Use and Install

Wheelchair Van Ramps are a popular choice for individuals with mobility challenges due to their ease of use and installation.  Installing a wheelchair ramp is a straightforward process that requires minimal modifications to the van.  Most ramps are made of lightweight materials such as aluminum, which makes them easy to handle and transport.  Once installed, ramps are simple to use and require only a gentle incline and a stable surface for safe entry and exit.  Many ramps, like the PVI Multi-Fold Rear Door Reach Mobility Ramp (below) doesn't even require any installation as they can be unfolded and leaned up against the rear entrance of the vehicle.  The unique top end of the ramp has an extended hook that is built to adhere to the obstacle the rear bumper presents.

pvi rear door reach van portable ramp for vans reliable ramps

 

Other ramps can be more secure.  The PVI Rear Door Mountable Multi-Fold Ramp (below) requires a little more work to install in the back of your van, but is relatively simple and extremely easy to fold and unfold out of the van to use once it's been secured.

 

mountable pvi rear door wheelchair ramp for vans scooter reliable ramps

Moreover, wheelchair ramps are versatile and can be used by individuals with varying degrees of mobility.  They are also low maintenance and require little upkeep, making them a practical and reliable solution for wheelchair accessibility.

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Rust Proof Aluminum and Fiberglass Construction

Most of the Van Ramps that Reliable Ramps offers are manufactured with either durable Aluminum or Fiberglass construction.  These rust-proof materials provide durability and longevity.  Aluminum is resistant to corrosion, which makes it a popular choice for outdoor ramps that are exposed to weather and moisture.

The lightweight construction of aluminum and fiberglass ramps also make them easy to install and maneuver, while still providing a sturdy and secure surface for wheelchair accessibility.  Additionally, these ramps are low maintenance and require little upkeep, making them a practical and cost-effective solution for individuals who require mobility assistance.

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Sized to Fit Your Needs

Wheelchair Van Ramps are customizable and can be sized to fit the specific needs of individuals with mobility challenges.  Whether you need a wider ramp, a longer ramp, one that has multiple folds vs. a single fold, or you need add ons to create a more gradual slope when entering the vehicle, there are plenty of options that are going to be available to you ensuring you get the perfect ramp for your requirement. 

Ramps come in different lengths and widths to accommodate various types of vehicles and mobility devices.  The standard width is 26", but you'll be able to find wider ramps if your requirement dictates it. 

Customizing the size of the ramp ensures a safe and comfortable experience for the user, providing easy access to the van without the need for strenuous lifting or assistance.  In addition, ramps can be differ as it relates to your specific weight requirements, making them suitable for heavier mobility equipment.  With the option to customize the size of the ramp, individuals with mobility challenges can enjoy safe and convenient access to their vehicle, regardless of their specific needs.
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Steps to Consider when Choosing your Wheelchair Van Ramp

    1. Identify Your Needs - You'll first need to identify the needs of the person using the ramp.  Consider the weight of the wheelchair or scooter, the width of the device and the height at the vehicles entry point.
    2. Choose the Type of Ramp - The type of ramp can range from Single Fold Ramps and Multi Fold Ramps, to Telescopic Ramps and Channel Ramps.  Each style will present different options as it pertains to weight capacity, length, width and the size of the ramp when it's folded to transport with the vehicle.
    3. Weight Capacity - Make sure the ramp you choose can support the weight of the wheelchair or scooter, as well as whoever will be using the ramp to ensure compatibility.
    4. Consider the Installation Process - Determine whether you can setup the ramp yourself or if you will need assistance.  Some ramps may require more of an installation process than others, so be sure to factor this into your decision.
    5. Check for Compatibility - Ensure the ramp you're getting is. compatible with the make and model of your van.  Consider things like the height of the entrance, how much room is inside the vehicle for your mobility equipment, how much there is to store the ramp once it's folded up and what the threshold looks like that the ramp will rest on.  Some ramps, like the PVI Multi-Fold Rear Door Reach will have an extended hook at the top end of the ramp to accommodate a rear bumper that would otherwise cause issues with the ramp. (below)rear door reach picture multifold vs multifold reach pvi portable van ramp reliable ramps

  1. Look for Safety Features - All of the Mobility Ramps for Vans and other vehicles that Reliable Ramps offers will come with non-slip surfaces, but it's important to consider this, as well as other features like locking mechanisms, etc.
  2. Set a Budget - It's important to make sure you set a budget for your ramp, as the cost can vary depending on the ramp you choose and any additional features you require.
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Types of Wheelchair Ramps for Vans

Telescopic Ramps

Telescopic Ramps are broken down in a different way that foldable ramps in that they're extended or contracted and feature multiple sections that slide out and lock into place to create a continuous ramp, creating a different way of breaking them down for storage or travel.  Some ramps, like the Guldmann Stepless Telescopic EasyFold Wheelchair Van Ramp will both fold in half, as well as compact telescopically presenting one of the smaller footprints for your ramp when stowing it away in the car or garage.  Their portability and ease of use make them a popular choice for individuals and businesses that frequently travel or need to set up ramps in different locations.

Foldable Ramps

Foldable Wheelchair Ramps for vehicles prove to be the most popular, and are offered most commonly at Reliable Ramps.  These ramps are straightforward in that they are designed with a single fold lengthwise, or have multiple folds enabling you to break it down further for easier storage.  Many of these foldable ramps will be designed with locking mechanisms to easily and safely secure the ramp for transporting, and they'll also come with handles on the side of the ramp for easy carry!

Mountable Ramps

The Mountable Van Ramps, such as the PVI Mountable Multi-Fold Ramp come with a little more work on the front end to install the ramp in the back of your vehicle, but it has two main advantages that the other portable ramps won't be able to provide.

  1. Easier Use - Once secured to the back of your vehicle, they're spring aided which creates very lightweight and easy use of the heavy duty ramp when folding and unfolding it out of the rear entry.
  2. Easy Storage - Once mounted to the back of the van, there's no need to move the ramp around and store it anywhere as it sits securely right in the back of the vehicle and takes up only a small footprint when doing so.

Rear Door Van Ramps

Rear Entry Ramps, are installed at the rear of the van an are ideal for wheelchair users who prefer or are forced to sit in the back of the vehicle depending on the specific vehicle.  Rear entry ramps are often wider and can accommodate larger mobility devices, making them a popular. choice for individuals who require more space.

Side Entry Van Ramps

Side Entry Ramps are installed on the side of the van and are ideal for wheelchair users who prefer to sit in the front passenger seat or who require more headroom.  Side entry ramps also offer greater visibility and easier access to the controls of the van.

While both types, side and rear entry ramps, provide safe and easy access to the vehicle, the choice between side entry and rear entry ramps ultimately depends on individual preference and needs.

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As always, choosing a Wheelchair Ramp for your van or other vehicles is a big decision -- one of many important decisions that are needed to be made, and you should be well informed on the options you have before making the decision.  If you have ANY questions about your requirement that wasn't covered in this Guide, please don't hesitate to reach out to Reliable Ramps' Ramp Experts at 888-307-1839, and they'll be happy to help!  Or, you can visit the FAQ Page that will cover any additional questions you may have.

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