Curtain-side semitrailers, or curtainsiders, are said to have originated in Europe in part because numerous factories in the region lacked the loading docks necessary for loading traditional box trailers.
Distance From Ballyconnell, County Cavan, Ireland
Available in both semi-trailer models (the type found on this page) and towable trailer bodies, curtain-side trailers are said to have originated in Europe in part because numerous factories in the region lacked the loading docks necessary for loading traditional box trailers.
Unlike box trailers entirely enclosed by four walls or low loaders that are entirely open, curtain-side trailers combine these two trailer approaches. Equipped with a retractable curtain, curtain-side trailers can both protect the cargo from the various elements with the curtain closed and, with the curtain drawn back, allow for unrestricted access to the cargo for easier loading and unloading from one or both sides and the rear.
Curtain-side semitrailers are commonly used to haul a variety of loads, including:
Some companies offer curtain-side conversion kits for sale, and businesses can incorporate custom graphics on curtains for marketing and advertising purposes.
Beyond accelerating loading and unloading chores, curtain-side semitrailers can help eliminate the need to load items in a first-on, last-off approach, which enables operators to make numerous deliveries at many locations from one trailer. Curtain siders can also eliminate the need for tarping loads, as is often required with a low loader, while still accommodating oddly shaped cargo and enabling cargo on the trailer to be placed in a weight-concentrated manner for better balance.
Curtain-side trailers can prove beneficial when hauling sensitive or valuable cargo such as chemicals, weapons, or vintage automobiles while keeping them guarded from public view. If necessary, some curtain-side trailers can convert to a low loader relatively easily.
TruckLocator.ie includes listings for new and used curtain-side semitrailers for sale from Don-Bur, Lawrence David, Kässbohrer, Kögel, Krone, Montracon, SDC, Schmitz, Schmitz Cargobull, and other top manufacturers.