RV AFTERMARKET
Keeping Campers Rolling
Roll-A-Ramp takes pride in finding ways to make RVing more accessible to everyone.
By Michele Moore
Photos courtesy of Roll-A-Ramp
RV AFTERMARKET
Keeping Campers Rolling
Roll-A-Ramp takes pride in finding ways to make RVing more accessible to everyone.
By Michele Moore
Photos courtesy of Roll-A-Ramp
One of the beautiful things about nature is that it can — and should — be enjoyed by everyone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 4 Americans have some type of disability, and a 2024 Kampgrounds of America report states that 42% of campers have physical limits to mobility and 24% experience blindness or serious difficulty seeing. With the rapidly increasing number of Americans turning to RVing as a way to get outside, RV PRO spoke with Roll-A-Ramp’s Matt Magness, president and owner, and Jennifer Miller and Zach Kloos, sales team members, to learn how this company is making the great outdoors accessible, one ramp at a time.
RV PRO: Tell us about Roll-A-Ramp — how did you get started and why? What got Roll-A-Ramp involved in the RV industry?
Roll-A-Ramp is a family-owned business based in West Fargo, North Dakota, and we have been selling ramps since 2001. The concept of the ramp first started as a tool to move carpet cleaners up and down stairs. At a trade show, a wheelchair user was intrigued by the design and suggested making the ramp lighter weight for use in the disability access market. That is when we shifted focus and since have taken pride in finding new creative ways to make the world more accessible.
We got started in the RV industry simply because there weren’t a lot of other options to make camping accessible. Some of our team members were avid campers and felt the portability of Roll-A-Ramp would fill this need.
RV PRO: What are some situations where an RVer might need a ramp, and how can dealers best advise their customers for these applications?
The Roll-A-Ramp RV Ramp system is a wonderful solution for people who enjoy RVing but are unable to climb up steps. It is great for people who use wheelchairs, rollators, crutches or other assistive devices. Even when faced with mobility challenges, the ramp allows people to continue enjoying the great outdoors and open road.
Ramps are available in multiple widths and at any length. The standard system consists of a 48-by-48-inch platform and a 30-inch-by-18-foot ramp with handrails on one or two sides. The platform allows the ramp to run alongside the RV, so it can fit at most campsites. The ramp can also run straight out from the door in situations where space allows. Ramp length can also be customized based on the floor height and space available. Our sales team is available to help with evaluations to find the right solution for you or your customer.
RV PRO: How does Roll-A-Ramp address some of the space and storage limitations unique to RVs?
Roll-A-Ramp was designed to be portable and versatile, so the storage method can also adapt based on each situation. An 18-foot long ramp will roll up to 42 inches in diameter, but most people will use our quick connect pins to divide it into three 6-foot sections that have a diameter of 18 inches. The handrail sections can remain assembled when removed and store flat, and support stands are also removed when the ramp is taken down for transport. Depending on the specific RV, ramp and handrail sections can be stored under the RV or inside while in transit. We can also work with you to find a creative solution to your situation.
RV PRO: What installation and maintenance requirements do RV technicians and end users need to be aware of?
Roll-A-Ramp links are constructed from 6061 aircraft anodized aluminum. This means the ramp does not require any maintenance. The ramp was designed to be left outside all year long and to withstand weather elements. Initial setup will require attaching brackets to the platform and assembling handrail sections. First-time setup may take a couple hours, but after that, installation and takedown usually takes less than 30 minutes. For setting the ramp up, you simply connect the ramp sections together and place them on the platform or inside of the RV door. All systems include printed instructions on how to set up the ramp. We also have instruction videos on our YouTube channel, and our staff is available to assist with questions and evaluations.
RV PRO: How is the changing RV customer demographic influencing demand for accessibility products?
With the population growing older by the day, Roll-A-Ramp portable ramps allow people to enjoy the outdoors in the comfort of an RV without the worry of falling down the stairs. We know people want to continue enjoying the open road and great outdoors, and Roll-A-Ramp helps to make this possible. It is a great tool for snowbirds who want to travel south to warmer climates.
Roll-A-Ramp offers versatility — you can change the length at any time by adding and removing links, so that you never have the wrong length. One ramp can meet many needs and can even be split into multiple shorter ramps.
RV PRO: What else should our readers know about Roll-A-Ramp?
Roll-A-Ramp can be used anywhere there is an access need. An RV ramp can also be used for the home, and longer ramps can be divided into shorter ramps. If you are part of an RV dealership or RV park, a ramp system can be rented out and used by multiple customers. If you rent RVs, you could open the door to new opportunities with a rental ramp. Similarly, if you have long-term campers at your RV park, you can also generate additional cash flow by offering a ramp on-site. We’re here to help you find solutions to your customers’ accessibility needs
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