Ramp Length & Gradient Calculator
Calculate ramp length, gradient and rise-to-run ratio for accessible, vehicle or loading ramps to meet common design grades, free in your browser.
Ramp inputs
A common maximum for ramps longer than ~1900 mm in Australian access guidance. Profiles are guide values (reviewed 2026-06-23) — confirm the current NCC, AS 1428.1 and local requirements.
Result
| Segment | Type | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Top landing | landing | 1.2 m |
| Ramp run 1 | ramp | 5.25 m |
| Landing 1 | landing | 1.5 m |
| Ramp run 2 | ramp | 5.25 m |
| Bottom landing | landing | 1.2 m |
Before you rely on this: First-pass guide only. Verify safety-critical or regulated work against the relevant standards, your project requirements and a qualified professional.
How to use this calculator
- Choose a profile (e.g. accessible 1:14, gentle 1:20) or pick Custom and type a grade like 1:14 or 7%.
- Enter the vertical rise and its unit, and adjust the max run between landings and landing lengths if needed.
- Read the horizontal run, sloped ramp length, grade, number of intermediate landings and the total footprint, with a side-elevation diagram and segment schedule.
How it works
For a 1:N grade the horizontal run = rise × N, and the sloped ramp length = √(run² + rise²). Grade percent = run⁻¹ × rise × 100, and the angle = atan(rise ÷ run).
If the run is longer than the maximum run between landings, it's split into equal ramp segments with an intermediate landing between each. The total footprint adds the top, intermediate and bottom landing lengths to the run.
Worked example
750 mm rise at 1:14. Run = 0.75 × 14 = 10.500 m; sloped length = √(10.5² + 0.75²) = 10.527 m; grade = 7.143% (4.086°). A 500 mm rise at 1:20 gives a 10.000 m run and 10.012 m length.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the run (horizontal) with the sloped ramp length — they differ by the rise.
- Forgetting landings — long ramps need intermediate landings that add to the footprint.
- Treating a profile as compliance. Profiles are guide grades only; the real limits depend on the current code and the situation.
Frequently asked questions
What does 1:14 mean?
The ramp rises 1 unit for every 14 of horizontal run — a grade of about 7.14% or 4.09°.
How long is a ramp for a 500 mm rise?
At 1:14 the run is 7.0 m; at 1:20 it's 10.0 m. The tool also gives the sloped length and any landings.
What is the difference between run and slope length?
The run is the horizontal distance; the slope length is the actual sloped surface, slightly longer (√(run² + rise²)).
Is this an accessibility compliance check?
No. It checks the selected grade profile only. Confirm the current NCC, AS 1428.1, local authority requirements and project-specific access advice.
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Cite this tool
Zerdly. (2026). Ramp Length & Gradient Calculator. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/ramp-length-calculator/
Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.
All calculations run in your browser. Your inputs are never saved or transmitted.