Wheelchairs ramps make life easier for millions of people in the world every other day. An approximated 3.6 million people in the US use wheelchairs, according to a population report published by the US Census Data in 2012. It doesn’t matter if an individual uses a wheelchair, crutches, a cane or a walker; the best wheelchair ramp provides relief for those who’ve had obstacles accessing buildings due to their mobility impairments.
For caregivers who offer assistance to those dealing with disabilities, wheelchair ramps come in very handy. Caregivers, friends, and family can now focus completely on providing care for those who use assistive devices without the need to keep stumbling up and down the stairs pushing the devices. Or even worrying the disabled might trip over.
What’s more, businesses that have complied with wheelchair ramp slope requirements in their buildings, are now accessible and can welcome new customers into their premises.
Should You Buy A Used Wheelchair Ramp?
Sometimes, when budget is a concern, finding a used wheelchair ramp may be an alternative option. Suffice it to say, is buying a used wheelchair ramp a good idea? First of all, any used product will not necessarily be in perfect condition. In terms of a wheelchair ramp, this could mean loose or eroding hinges, unstable surfaces and material deterioration. In today’s competitive market, new wheelchair ramps are available for very affordable prices. Before settling on a used wheelchair ramp, take a look at some of the features of these new wheelchair ramps. You may be surprised that they are not only affordable, but built with durability, convenience and portability in mind.
Building Your Own Wheelchair Ramp?
Alternatively, if you’re handy, you can build your own wheelchair ramp. This may not be a viable solution for too many folks, but this video below is a great tutorial for anyone considering building their own wheelchair ramp to try a save a few dollars. We can’t necessarily say this would be the best wheelchair ramp though:
Best Wheel Chair Ramps for Those with Mobility Issues
Wheelchair ramps come in different lengths, support varying weight capacities. They also vary in design, style, and type.
Check out this simple wheelchair ramps comparison table. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide for the best wheelchair ramp down below.
| Product Name | Size (feet) | Width (inches) | Weight Capacity(pounds) | Ramp Weight (pounds) | Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 1. Prairie WCR830 Portable Multi-fold Ramp | 8ft | 30 inches | 800 pounds | 59.5 pounds | Multi-fold |
 2. DMI Portable Wheelchair Ramp | Adjusts 3-5ft | Each ramp 4.5 inches | 2x300 pounds | 6 pounds per ramp | Adjustable, telescoping |
 3. Rage Powersports SCG-2 Single-Fold Ramp | 2ft | 30 | 600 pounds | 11 pounds | Single-fold |
 4. Prairie SL336 Solid Ramp | 3ft | 36 inches | 800 pounds | 18 pounds | Solid |
 5. EZ-ACCESS Transitions Modular Entry Ramp | - | 34 inches | 700 pounds | 10.55 pounds | Modular |
 6. Goplus Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp | 3ft | 28 Inches | 600 pounds | 17 pounds | Multi-fold |
 7. Big Horn Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp | 6ft | 30 inches | 600 pounds | 40 pounds | Multi-fold |
1. Prairie WCR830 Portable Multi-fold Wheelchair Ramp
Looking for a very functional ramp for transitioning stairs, porches and curbs? Nothing comes close to Prairie WCR830 Multi-fold ramp.
The ramp measures 8 feet in length to provide a smooth inclined plane for a wheelchair. It also has 30 inches width capable of accommodating virtually any wheelchair configurations. It also provides enough space to maneuver.
Positioned at the center is a patented joint hinge designed to eliminate the major pinch point that slows down the movement. The property also makes the unit stronger. Most of the other companies dealing in folding ramps lack this innovative feature.
Weight Capacity
With 800lbs in weight capacity, this best wheelchair ramp is robust enough to support wheelchair itself, the weight of the user and then some more.
The entire ramp is welded fabrication that guarantees optimum strength. Even better, the entire surface features anti-slip traction tape covering the walking surface. Whether the wheelchair is wet or dry, the surface offers maximum traction so your wheelchair doesn’t skid thereby ensuring optimum safety.
Additionally, the best wheelchair ramp comes accompanied by a visual aid attached. Use it to determine if the ramp is positioned on a safe slope before use.
Made from heavy-duty aluminum, the ramp is lightweight and will fold to roughly a quarter of its open size. It can also separate into two. Use the handle to the best wheelchair ramp like a suitcase for use anywhere you go.
- Robust construction- welded fabrication
- Foldable, Lightweight and highly portable
- Visual aid for safety
- Patented joint hinge
- Relatively expensive
2. DMI Portable Wheelchair Ramp
Make it simple to move the wheelchair over a rise whether it’s into a vehicle or over the steps with DMI Portable Best Wheelchair Ramp.
Crafted using robust aluminum materials, the ramp is durable, doesn’t rust and each of the 6lbs wheelchair ramps will support up to 300lb and a total of 600lbs for both. The interior width of each ramp is 4.5 inches.
Furthermore, the ramp features non-skid u-shaped tracks. As such, this ensures the wheelchair moves without slipping or skipping for the user’s maximum safety.
Besides, the ramp is adjustable. With just the simple push of a button, it’ll extend from 3 to 5 feet to occupy a steeper plane. It’ll also retract for easy storage and transportation.
DMI Portable Wheelchair Ramp requires no tools to assemble. What’s more, it comes with a nylon storage bag to allow for easy storage and transportation. Hopefully this assists you in determining what the best wheelchair ramp is for your needs.
- Robust aluminum construction
- Lightweight and portable
- Adjustable and retractable
- Non-skid U-shaped tracks
- Ramps may not fit too wide wheelchair casters and wheels
3. Rage Powersports SCG-2 Single-Fold Wheelchair Ramp
Looking for the best wheelchair ramp for general use? Or for loading a wheelchair into vehicles and trailers? Perhaps moving it over the stairs as well as porches? Then Rage Powersports Single-Fold Wheelchair Ramp is an excellent tool to invest in.
Furthermore, the ramp measures 2ft and has been designed for use with 4-inch inclined planes. Also, it has feature a full-width platform complete with built-in serrations to provide a surface with optimum traction and stability.
On both sides of the best wheelchair ramp are raised rails that keep the wheelchair and anything else moving on top from slipping off the sides onto the ground.
For ease of transportation as well as compact storage, Rage Powersports SCG-2 Single-Fold Ramp folds exactly in half. It also features a convenient handle that further enhances transportation.
Finally, this best wheelchair ramp also features predrilled holes plus some safety pins. Use them to mount the ramp for so it stays put as you pull the wheelchair.
- Has side rails
- Folds in half
- Serrated surface for maximum traction
- Predrilled holes and safety pins for mounting
- Short 2ft length
4. Prairie SL336 Solid Wheelchair Ramp
Measuring 3ft, Prairie SL336 Solid Ramp provides a perfect platform for transitioning your wheelchair over low stairs, porches, and curbs.
Also, it has a durable welded aluminum construction which that renders it sturdy enough to support 800lb in weight.
The ramp boasts a 36 inches platform that provides maximum space capable of fitting the 36-inch doors. Not sure about the configuration of your wheelchair? This ramp will accommodate almost any wheelchair.
Moreover, the wheelchair ramp surface comes fully covered with an anti-slip skid-resistant tape. It provides a high traction surface that keeps the wheelchair from sliding or slipping for the maximum safety of the users.
Prairie SL336 Solid Ramp has a one-piece design that requires no assembly. It comes accompanied by steel security pins plus a safety video.
- Robust aluminum construction
- Anti-slip nonskid tape high traction surface
- Accommodate any wheelchair configuration
- Wide platform
- Might require adjusting EXTERNAL swing doors
5. EZ-ACCESS Transitions Modular Entry Wheelchair Ramp
Navigate the lip of high doors, multiple-level sidewalks, porches/patios, and load onto vehicles more conveniently with a robust modular entry ramp.
First of all, the EZ-ACCESS Transitions Modular Entry Ramp is your best wheelchair ramp for your loved to help them move about confidently. It’s the best way to help them be more independent as they access almost any part of their home freely and securely.
Crafted using metal, this ramp is durable and sturdy to support up to 700lbs weight capacity. It weighs 10.55 pounds lightweight enough to move from one place to another.
Furthermore, the ramp is free-standing and has been designed to be used for doorways sliding glass doors as well as raised buildings.
EZ-ACCESS Transitions Modular Entry Ramp is designed for use on 3-inch rises. There are other similar models for rises ranging from 1-12 inches. The 12 inches rise modular entry ramp is adjustable.
Lastly, the ramp is 34 inches in width. It will accommodate virtually any wheelchair and leave some space for maneuvering.
- Durable construction
- Lightweight
- Relatively wide
- It’s free standing
- Not adjustable
6. Goplus Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp
Designed using welded durable aluminum and nylon construction, Goplus Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp is sturdy enough to hand up to 600lbs.
It’s the perfect ramp for persons with disabilities on wheelchairs so they can traverse porches, stairs and load conveniently on the curbs and mini-vans.
For a person on a wheelchair, the ramp will work on rises or elevated surfaces of up 6 inches and 9 inches when walking the entire length.
Moreover, it has a high traction surface for your safety. Regardless of the weather conditions, you can move your wheelchair along without worrying about skidding or sliding.
Goplus Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp folds into a compact unit which makes it possible to store and transport. This 17lbs ramp also features an inbuilt carrying handle for easy transportation.
- Foldable for easy transport
- High traction surface
- Durable aluminum-nylon construction
- A convenient inbuilt handle
- Lacks mechanism for anchoring/attaching
7. Big Horn Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp
Conveniently load your wheelchair on to the stairs, porches, vans, curbs or even trailers with this 6-foot ramp.
Designed using sturdy aluminum materials, Big Horn Multi-Fold Wheelchair Ramp is sufficiently stable to support up to 600lbs in weight capacity.
The ramp features a multi-fold mechanism so you can fold it in half and once again in half. When folded into a compact unit, it resembles a suitcase complete with an inbuilt ergonomic carrying handle. Use the handles to lift this 40lbs from the ground for easy storage as well as transportation.
For your safety and peace of mind when walking along the length, the ramp comes with a slip-resistant grip surface. It also features 2.5″ angled lips that you can use to anchor the ramp permanently onto the ground if prefer it that way.
- Folds into a compact designs
- Sturdy aluminum construction
- Anchors onto ground
- Has a carrying handle
- Relatively heavy
Best Wheelchair Ramp for those with Disabilities – A Buyer’s Guide
Although, it might not be that difficult to choose the best wheelchair ramp, there are a couple of factors to consider. Here are a few of those:
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Purpose and Place of Use
A threshold ramp is your best bet if you have a slightly raised doorway or a landing. Got a set of steps leading into your home? A single-fold wheelchair ramp that you can easily carry like a suitcase will come in handy.
Alternatively, if you have a raised landing, then go for a single-fold or trifold wheelchair ramp. And for easy transportation of your wheelchair into a vehicle, a trifold wheelchair ramp will be helpful. Take a look at this post for our recommendation for the best wheelchair cushion.
The rule of thumb? Know your limitations, understand your issues and you’ll be in a better position to choose an excellent ramp that suits your individual needs.
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Ramp Type & Style
In choosing a wheelchair ramp based on type and style, we’ll consider the length in feet and weight capacity in pounds.
Threshold Ramps: Usually for the doorway thresholds with low rises and although purchased for a specific location, you can move it around when the need arises.
Suitcase Ramps: This is the most common type with a maximum length of about 6 feet and will handle up to 800lbs. Suitcase ramps are lightweight, usually foldable, easy to pack, and transport.
Solid Ramps: Require no folding or sophisticated alignment which makes them easy to use but difficult to transport. Can support up to 850lbs
Multi-fold Ramps: With a maximum weight capacity of 800lbs, these ramps are up to 12 feet long are relatively hard to fold and transport.
Track Ramps: Most measure a maximum of 12 feet and support up to 600lbs. They’re lightweight but be hard to set. However, the Roll-a-ramp models have a weight capacity of up to 2000lbs and will weigh more than their counterparts.
Modular Ramps: Too long and heavy and require assembly on site. And as you guessed, they’re not portable.
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How Wide Should It Be?
The size of your wheelchair will determine how wide your wheelchair ramp will be. Again, it should be wide enough to provide enough room to maneuver in the wheelchair.
Further, most ramps you’ll come across with have widths ranging from 30 to 42 inches and will provide maximum room for comfort and maneuver.
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Any Special Features?
Other than the purpose & place of use, weight capacity, length, type, and style, you might want to address other concerns closer to your heart. For instance, you want a ramp with a color that complements your décor. What are your concerns?
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Should you buy a used wheelchair ramp?
Buying a used wheelchair ramp should come with some caution. Be sure to inspect the hinges for signs of erosion and deterioration. Ensure that the material is not flimsy and the surface is solid. Also, check the weight capacities, manufacturing date and other information posted on the used wheelchair ramp. This is to ensure the quality is still good and the wheelchair ramp is in tact. Compare the price of the used wheelchair ramp to some of the ramps listed above.
In Conclusion
For an individual who uses a wheelchair, the best wheelchair ramp will help lower the chances of tripping, help you focus on the critical issues and give those who use mobility devices a little independence. Determine the purpose, the place of use and the width so you can choose one that suits your needs. Whether this is a used wheel chair ramp or new, this is up to you. Perhaps you can even build one yourself! We hope you’ve found an excellent ramp that serves your needs or those of a disabled loved one.
