Curtain Side Body Kit Guide: Tautliner Van Bodies for All LCV Chassis
Curtain side body kits for Sprinter, Crafter, Daily, Transit: specs, chassis compatibility, assembly levels and when to choose curtain side vs dropside.
Curtain Side Body Kit Guide: Tautliner Van Bodies
Curtain side bodies — also called tautliner or sliding curtain sider bodies — are the preferred load body for time-sensitive pallet and cargo deliveries. This guide covers how curtain side body kits work, specifications, and which chassis they fit.
What Is a Curtain Side Body Kit?
A curtain side body kit replaces fixed side panels with a tensioned, sliding curtain system. The curtain rolls back on both sides, giving forklift and hand-truck access from any angle without dropping a tailgate or manoeuvring around a rigid body. For logistics, multi-drop routes and pallet distribution, this means faster loading and shorter dwell times.
Kit-Go curtain side kits are built on an aluminium subframe with anodised aluminium roof bows, PVC-coated curtains and galvanised steel tensioning straps. Available in CKD, PAS and FAS.
Curtain Side vs Fixed Dropside
| Feature | Curtain Side | Fixed Dropside |
|---|---|---|
| Loading access | Both sides + rear | Top + rear |
| Forklift compatible | Yes | Limited |
| Weather protection | Full enclosure | Open top |
| Best for | Multi-drop, 3PL, retail supply | Construction, bulk materials |
Compatible LCV Chassis
Kit-Go curtain side kits are engineered for: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 311-316 CDi (3.5t and 5t), Volkswagen Crafter 35/50 and TGE 35, Iveco Daily 35S/35C/50C/65C/70C, Ford Transit 350/470/500/570, Renault Master FWD and RWD, Fiat Ducato 33/35/40, Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Jumper, Vauxhall Movano.
Specification Options
- Floor: Hardwood planks or chequer-plate aluminium
- Curtain: Standard white PVC, custom colour on volume orders
- Load security: EN 12642 Code XL compliance available
- Rear closure: Barn doors or tail-lift mounting provision