Rigid Curtainsiders are rigid body structures fitted to 7.5–32 tonne chassis cabs, providing full side and rear loading access. They are widely used in secondary distribution, multi-drop work and mixed delivery environments where fast ground-level access improves efficiency.
The design combines the structural integrity of a rigid body with the flexibility of sliding side curtains. Full side access supports forklift loading and rapid pallet handling, while rear access accommodates loading bays or tail-lifts. Specifications can prioritise durability, reduced weight, lower noise output, aerodynamics or sector-specific requirements.
Typical applications
- Urban and regional distribution
- Multi-drop palletised freight
- Operations requiring frequent side access
- Mixed loading via bays, forklifts or tail-lifts
Core Construction Features
Rigid Curtainsiders are engineered for structural integrity, service life and ease of maintenance in daily distribution use. Construction methods and corrosion protection are selected to support varied duty cycles and road conditions.
- All-bolted construction for serviceability and repair
- Extensive galvanisation to improve corrosion resistance
- Heavy-duty subframes to suit higher duty cycles
Lightweight and Low-Noise Options
Material selection and component specification can reduce unladen weight and operating noise. Lower body weight can increase available payload, while noise-reducing features support early morning, late night or urban delivery operations.
Lightweight options
- Aluminium crossbearers
- Aluminium side raves
- Aluminium plank flooring
- PVC roof
- Lightweight shutters or doors
Low-noise options
- Pneumatic roller shutter
- Low-noise flooring
- Noise-insulated bodywork
- PIEK-certified tail-lifts
Aerodynamic Options
Aerodynamic refinements can reduce fuel consumption and support lower whole-life operating costs, particularly on higher mileage routes.
- Teardrop bodywork profiles
- Side skirt options
- Cab top deflectors matched to the vehicle
Brewery and Drinks Distribution
Specialist configurations are available for brewery and drinks distribution, where higher payload density, manual handling and frequent stops place additional demands on the body structure.
- Low floor height for easier handling
- CO2 bottle racks
- Plank stowage and sack truck provision
- Integrated load restraint systems
- Heavy-duty sacrificial flooring
EN 12642-XL Load Containment
EN 12642-XL is a European whole-body load containment standard applying to the complete body structure. When specified, the body provides a recognised method of load containment accepted by the DVSA.
Loads must remain positive-fit and correctly restrained in accordance with operator procedures and current load securing guidance.
360 Viewer
Take a virtual walk around an example Rigid Curtainsider in our 360 panoramic viewer.
Scene menu buttons on the left of the viewer window allow you to navigate around the trailer to look at specific features.
Example shown is a brewery specification with specialist load restraint and CO2 racks.
Image gallery
Indicative pricing & availability
Price: P.O.A.
Available to pre-order
