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Transportation is an industry full of equipment types. So many equipment types, in fact, that it can sometimes be difficult to understand the use-case of each.
Matching the right trailer to your load is important for facilitating your supply chain.
Yet doing so only gets more challenging with so many options in the mix.
Curtainside trailers are an example of this. This class of semi-trailers is designed for a specific purpose. And, when used correctly, curtainside trailers can become a sound transportation solution.
But what is a curtainside trailer? What are they used most commonly for? And what, if anything, are the limitations of this specialized trailer type?
If you&#;re looking to add additional trailer options to your logistics procedures, curtainsides may fit the bill. However, it&#;s important to have all of the right information before making any decisions.
So, let&#;s go over many of the key details you need to understand about curtainside trailers so you can decide, definitively, whether they will meet your company&#;s needs.
What is a Curtainside Trailer?
A curtainside trailer is a specialized semi-trailer that has a rigid framework mounted onto a flatbed or flat-deck trailer.
Curtainside trailers are comprised of a firmly bolstered front, which features an entry door, horizontal roof supports running the trailer&#;s length, a metal constructed roof (similar to a dry van&#;s), two swing-open rear doors and a sliding tarp system &#; typically made from an 18-ounce (or similar) material.
The tarps on either side of the curtainside trailer can be retracted for loading, sliding in a similar fashion as the tarps on a Conestoga trailer.
Not to be confused with a Conesoga (though they commonly are), curtainside trailers are different in a number of ways. Most notably, curtainsides only feature tarps on two sides (the left and right). Conestogas have a larger curtain system which creates its roof and rear as well.
Additionally, curtainside trailers feature a far more rigid framework than Conestogas do. The roof of a curtainside trailer is immobile and not retractable &#; the same cannot be said of Conestogas.
Curtainside trailers come in both 48 and 53-foot variations. Here is a list of the maximum cargo dimensions for this trailer type.
Maximum Cargo Dimensions For Curtainside Trailers
Maximum Cargo Width
8 feet, 4 inches (100")
Maximum Cargo Height
8 feet (96")
Maximum Cargo Length
48 and 53 feet
Maximum Cargo Weight
40,000-43,000 pounds
Note: Maximum cargo dimensions will change based on the make and model of the trailer on your load. Always consult a trusted transportation provider for your exact trailer's dimensions.
How are Curtainside Trailers Commonly Used?
Curtainside trailers can be used for any freight that requires protection from the elements during transport &#; provided it can be loaded from the side or back.
Products that fit this mold include, but are not limited to, many palletized commodities, raw materials (such as lumber, steel and iron) and moisture-sensitive machinery.
Additionally, since these trailers provide such great protection, traditional dry van commodities like food and beverage freight, general retail goods and hospitality-industry items (to name a few) are also hauled in them.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Curtainside Trailer?
Like any other trailer type, curtainside trailers have a unique list of pros and cons users should be aware of. Compared to its closest alternative, the Conestoga trailer, curtainsides boast the following list of pros and cons:
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Advantages of using a curtainside trailer over a Conestoga:
- Better protection from the elements thanks to its tight seams and hard top.
- The durability of an aluminum roof.
Disadvantages of using a curtainside trailer over a Conestoga:
- Curtainsides are heavier, which makes it more challenging to move high-weight, full truckload volumes.
- Due to their rigid framework, curtainside trailers can only be loaded from the sides via forklift or from the back. Loading using an overhead crane won&#;t be possible.
Looking For Protection From The Elements? Here&#;s Another Alternative!
Like Conestoga trailers, curtainsides are a relatively unique trailer type, making them difficult to find in some markets and driving up the cost of using one. Sure, curtainside trailers provide excellent protection from the elements and reduce instances of cargo damage during transit, but, in many situations, you simply don&#;t need one.
Tarping your open-deck freight will leave you with far more solutions to source from, cutting down the rates you pay in many instances.
That said, using tarps instead of one of these more specialized trailers will be a decision that is, once again, based on research.
Read this article which provides all of the information needed for deciding whether tarping your freight makes the most sense for your company.
And, after completing it, feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have. We&#;re always happy to help you in any way you need.
Flatbed Trucking Guide: What is a Curtainside Trailer?
Do you want to get the most out of your flatbed trucking? If so, you may be curious about a curtainside trailer. This can be an important tool during flatbed hauling, and you need to make sure you get the most out of it. We are North American Specialized, and we give you the resources necessary to help you get the most out of your heavy equipment. Take a look at a few important points below, and remember to count on us for all of your trucking needs.
What Is a Flatbed Curtainside Trailer?
So, what exactly is a curtainside trailer? This is usually a flatbed vehicle that has a structure installed on top. Then, there is a tarping system that allows you to drape a curtain around the flatbed, protecting the contents inside. In general, there are two separate types of curtainside trailers.
The first is called a Conestoga curtainside trailer, which is made using a sliding type system. The system works similarly to an accordion. When the system is pulled forward, the tarp will expose the flatbed for easy access. The trailer could be made wider than usual, so you need to think about clearance height.
The other type of curtainside trailer is called a Tautliner. This uses a decidedly different structure that will not alter the width of the trailer. There is a front, a roofing system, and rear doors. It looks just like a van, but it still has side curtains. They open like shower curtains. You should think about the benefits and drawbacks of each option before you decide which one is right for you.
What Products Should Be Shipped Curtainside?
There are numerous products that you can ship using this type of system. For example, if you work in construction, you can use the system to move pipes, lumber, and appliances. You can also use the system to ship landscaping materials. This includes soil, rocks, plants, and trees. Even the auto industry takes advantage of this transportation method. That way, you can shield your motor vehicles from people who are curious about the valuable cargo.
There are even situations where people ship chemicals, military equipment, aerospace devices, and ammunition using this type of trailer. There are security measures you can put in place to improve the safety of the shipping process. This is one of the most versatile options available, so you can customize it to meet your needs. If you have questions or concerns about what you can ship using this method, you should reach out and ask.
Benefits of Using a Curtainside Truck for Hauling
There are several key benefits you will enjoy if you decide to use a curtainside truck for hauling. These include:
The system allows you to optimize your flexibility, allowing you to accommodate larger freight that might require side access to load and unload.
You don&#;t have to worry about loading or unloading the cargo in a specific way. You always have access to everything on the truck because you can simply access it from the side.
You can also load and unload your cargo more quickly. There are multiple points of entry because you do not have to load everything from the back. You can load your items from the side, making it easier for you to handle your deliveries.
The flexibility and versatility of a curtainside system are unparalleled. You are in total control of the vehicle, and you can customize it to meet your needs. At the same time, if you want to maximize the benefits of this shipping method, you need to work with a professional team that can assist you. Our experts would be happy to work with you from start to finish, helping you every step of the way. For more information, read our Guide to Heavy Equipment Hauling and Transport.
Why Choose NAS for Your Curtainside Shipping?
If you are looking for help with flatbed hauling, you should consider using a curtainside trailer. At North American Specialized, we have an unparalleled level of experience when it comes to trucking. We can help you get the most out of your equipment, and we can help you maximize your curtainside trailer. We have more than 50 years of experience, and we are a certified Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business. We pride ourselves on the quality of our customer service, and it would be our pleasure to show you what we can do. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.
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