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3 More Reasons Your Fleet Needs a Curtainside Van

16 Dec.,2024

3 More Reasons Your Fleet Needs a Curtainside Van

This article is a continuation on a previous article. If you'd like to start with the first 3 Reasons Your Fleet Needs a Curtainside Van, you can read it here.

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Whether you're currently looking to expand, renovate, or otherwise improve the state of your trailer fleet, investing in a curtainside van may be one of your best potential moves. Few fleet options offer the blend of convenience, reliability, and ease-of-use you find married together in a curtainside configuration. Unfamiliar with curtainside vans? They&#;re quite simple.

The basics of a curtainside van

You can essentially consider a curtainside van to be a flatbed with a versatile upper structure enclosure, designed to offer the best advantages of a typical flatbed and a dry-van trailer. You'll find them in two distinct configurations: the more structured, accordion-like Rolling Tarp System, with an upper canopy which retracts back out of the way, and the Curtainsider, which is a flatbed with a front bulkhead, fixed roof, and rear swing doors enclosed with flexible yet durable side curtains.

Each offers distinct advantages in loading, unloading, security, and structural integrity, but both configurations also offer a "best of both worlds" blend which many fleets can benefit from. Still not convinced? Consider these three reasons to invest in a conversion kit, replacement unit, or a new unit:

Reason #1: Flexibility in the loading and unloading process.

You'll see enhanced efficiency over the enforced structure of a trailer. Not only can you load more quickly by accessing the sides (or loading overhead, with a Rolling Tarp System), you escape the limitations of "first-on/last-off" which plague traditional dry-van trailer configurations.

You'll find that your operations team can easily load or unload what you need where you need it, without fighting the hassle of complex logistics. You'll also find that curtainside vans load and unload much easier than trailers in situations where loading facilities aren't equipped with conventional docks, as they work brilliantly with ground-based forklifts - something a hard-side trailer simply cannot offer.

Reason #2: Cargo safety and security.

The structure of a curtainside also offers unique advantages over a simple flatbed. When moving high-value cargo such as automobiles and machinery, the ability to cover the cargo with a fixed structure greatly improves security and safety.

Similarly, curtainside vans are more effective at concealing materials such as hazardous chemicals, military hardware, munitions, and explosives from prying eyes. And of course, in eliminating the need for tarping, you can speed up the loading and unloading process and improve risk management by providing a safer work environment, as well as a consistent, reliable system for securing your cargo.

Are you interested in learning more about curtain side van trailer? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Reason #3: Accommodates unusual needs well.

Perhaps the best argument for the addition of curtainside vans to your fleet lay in their flexibility. When unusual cargo, loading and unloading situations, or other problems arise, a curtainside van's unique features make it well-suited to custom solutions. Unique dimensional requirements mean contamination risks stay low, first-on/last-off doesn't complicate logistics, and the list goes on. You can utilize a curtainside van in most scenarios where you wouldn't otherwise need its traits as well, which means you will always have the right trailer at the right place for the right load, every time.

Want to learn more about or request more info on how a curtainside van could help your fleet? Then please feel free to make your request here and someone will be back with you shortly.

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.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Gooseneck Semi Trailer.

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