Tautliner: side loading through the curtain
A curtainsider trailer allows forklift loading from the side and rear. It suits palletised cargo where the loading site provides suitable access.
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Benefits of side access
- Forklift loading and unloading from both sides, not just from the rear
- Direct side access to pallets, depending on the loading plan
- Access to non-standard ramps or yards without a loading dock
- Can be loaded in parallel with another truck on the opposite side
Typical cargo
- Drinks in PET or glass, palletised
- Building materials (plasterboard, aerated concrete blocks, metal profiles)
- Packed furniture on pallets
- Paper and cardboard in rolls or parcels
- Bulky FMCG products
Available configurations
| Configuration | Capacity | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard tautliner 13.6 m | 33 Euro pallets / 24 t | Standard palletised cargo |
| Configuration for unusual cargo, subject to checks | 33 Euro pallets / 24 t | Palletised cargo with non-standard dimensions |
| Mega tautliner (low deck) | 33 pallets / 100 m³; payload to be confirmed | Bulky cargo, extra height |
Operational notes. For side loading, check the manoeuvring space needed by the forklift and confirmed configuration. For water-sensitive products, we discuss packaging and cargo protection before quoting.
What the loading site needs
The tautliner's advantage disappears if the loading site does not allow it. Check before you confirm the trip:
- Side manoeuvring space on the loading side, so the forklift can manoeuvre parallel to the trailer
- A load-bearing surface: check whether the surface can support the equipment and load, including the manoeuvring area
- Free height suitable for the loading equipment and confirmed trailer configuration
- Time to open and close: allow time for curtains, pillars and load securing; duration depends on the cargo and access
Securing on a tautliner: what is different
The curtain does not hold the cargo. It is a common and costly mistake: the side curtain protects from the weather and from prying eyes, but it takes no load. Securing is done only with:
- Lashing straps over the cargo, anchored in the side rails (standard EN 12195-2)
- Locking bars across the trailer, to stop lengthwise movement when the trailer is not full
- Anti-slip mats under the pallets, which increase friction considerably
- Intermediate stanchions fitted correctly. On trailers certified XL (EN 12642 Code XL), the side structure also takes part of the forces
If your cargo is light and tall, or the trailer leaves part-loaded, tell us: the loading plan is done differently.
Documents and responsibilities at loading
What must be ready at the loading dock so the trip is not held up:
| Document | Who prepares it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| CMR consignment note | The shipper, signed by all parties | Records the handover conditions and any reservations concerning the cargo. Full guide here |
| Goods delivery note | The shipper | Mandatory on domestic transport |
| Invoice or pro forma | The shipper | Needed at checks and for customs outside the EU |
| Packing list | The shipper | Checking the packages at unloading, without arguments |
| Loading plan | Jointly, if the cargo is unusual | Axle load distribution; a badly loaded trailer can be fined even under 24 t |
Declare the cargo’s actual weight and check load distribution with the responsible people. Responsibilities and conditions applicable to loading are clarified before the shipment.
When we do not recommend a tautliner
- Cargo sensitive to condensation. For condensation-sensitive cargo, we discuss packaging and transport configuration before quoting; a box trailer may require additional checks.
- High-value cargo on risky routes. Declare security requirements for high-value cargo. Together we check whether a curtainsider is suitable or another configuration is required.
- Rear-only loading at a dock. If loading is only from the rear, the choice depends on the cargo, access and equipment availability.
- Loose, unpackaged bulk cargo. A tautliner needs palletised cargo or stable load units.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tautliner and when should I use it?
A tautliner is a truck with a sliding side curtain that allows forklift loading from both sides, plus from the rear. Ideal for palletised cargo going to several drops or to yards without a loading dock.
How many Euro pallets fit in a tautliner?
A standard 13.6 m tautliner takes 33 Euro pallets, the same as a closed trailer. A Mega tautliner (low deck) reaches 100 m³ of volume and 3.00 m of internal height.
How does a curtainsider differ from a box trailer?
A curtainsider allows side and rear loading. Access to a box trailer depends on its configuration. The choice follows the cargo and conditions at collection and delivery.
Does a tautliner protect the cargo from rain?
Yes, the curtain is waterproof, but for very sensitive goods (cardboard, electronics without waterproof packaging) we recommend extra film wrapping on the pallet.
How much does a tautliner cost compared with general freight?
The price is calculated for the actual route and cargo. Specify the loading method and access conditions so we can check configuration and rate in the quote.
33 pallets to move quickly?
Request a tautliner quote. Reply with price and availability within 2 working hours.
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