Curtainsider Trailer: Dimensions, Capacity and When to Use One

A curtainsider (also called a tautliner) is a semi-trailer whose rigid roof and floor are joined by tensioned fabric curtains instead of solid side walls. Slide the curtains back and you can load from the side with a forklift, not just through the rear doors - which is why the curtainsider is the default trailer for palletised general cargo across European road freight.

Curtainsider dimensions and capacity

A standard EU 13.6 m curtainsider carries a full deck of Euro pallets and is the trailer most spot quotes assume.

Spec	Typical
Internal length	13.6 m
Internal width	2.45 m
Internal height	2.60 - 2.70 m
Euro pallets (floor)	33
Max payload	~24 t

Work the load out in loading metres before you book - a curtainsider gives roughly 13.6 LDM on the floor.

When to use a curtainsider vs a box trailer

Pick a curtainsider when you need side or top loading - long items, machinery, or forklift access along the trailer. Choose a hard-sided box (or reefer) when you need full weather sealing, security, or temperature control. For most palletised, non-temperature freight, the curtainsider wins on speed of loading.

FAQ

How many pallets fit in a curtainsider?

33 Euro pallets on the floor (or 26 industrial 1000 x 1200 mm pallets). You can carry more if the goods are light and stackable and the trailer is double-decked.

Is a curtainsider weatherproof?

The curtains keep out rain and road spray for normal transport, but a curtainsider is not airtight or insulated. For temperature-sensitive loads use a reefer container or reefer trailer instead.

What is the difference between a curtainsider and a tilt trailer?

A tilt has a removable frame and tarpaulin that must be unlaced to load from the side or top; a curtainsider's curtains slide in seconds. Curtainsiders have largely replaced tilts for everyday palletised freight.