Published on:

12.05.2025

TARPAUL TRAILERS

Curtain-sided semi-trailers (so-called “curtainsiders”) are among the most common and versatile types of semi-trailers used in freight road transport. Thanks to their design and flexibility during loading, they are the preferred choice for transporting a wide range of goods – from industrial materials and packaged products to palletized cargo and bulky items.

Main specifications of curtain-sided trailers:

Cargo space length: 13.60 m
Width: 2.45 m
Maximum load capacity: up to 24 tons
Standard Euro pallet capacity: 33 pallets (arranged in two rows along the length + 1 between the doors)

Internal height and volume depending on trailer type:

Standard trailer:
- Height: 2.70 m
- Volume: 90 m³
- Euro pallets: 33 pcs
Extended version:
- Height: 2.85 m
- Volume: 95 m³
- Euro pallets: 33 pcs
MEGA trailer:
- Height: 3.00 m
- Volume: 100 m³
- Euro pallets: 33 pcs
- Suitable for bulky but lighter cargo

These different configurations allow for selection according to the specific requirements of the cargo – height, volume, or weight – ensuring maximum loading efficiency and optimization of transport costs.

Loading and unloading options:

Curtain-sided trailers offer exceptional flexibility during loading and unloading operations, thanks to their design with movable elements:

Rear loading – through the opening of the double doors, the standard method used at most logistics facilities and ramps.
Side loading – by opening the curtain tarp on one or both sides of the trailer, providing easy access to the cargo along the entire length.
Top loading (through the roof) – the trailers can be opened from above, with the tarp and beams retracting. This facilitates the loading of goods by crane or forklift in specific situations, for example – long metal profiles, machinery, or containers.

Application and versatility:

Curtain-sided trailers are versatile and suitable for most types of goods, including:

Palletized cargo (food and non-food)
Industrial materials and equipment
Paper products and packaging
Household appliances and electronics
Light machinery and parts
Construction materials
Textiles and clothing

Thanks to the tarpaulin cover, the trailers provide protection against weather conditions while maintaining a relatively low tare weight, which allows for a higher payload and reduced fuel consumption.

Advantages:

Multifunctionality – adaptable to different types of cargo
Fast and convenient loading from various sides
Full opening capability – facilitates access to the entire load
Suitable for international and domestic transport
Cost-effective for mass transportation

Conclusion

Curtain-sided trailers remain one of the most preferred solutions in freight transport due to their practicality, flexibility, and ability to serve a wide range of logistics needs. They combine ease of operation, high load capacity, and efficiency in daily transport activities – both domestically and internationally.