Mesh side extensions are among the most popular accessories for a trailer. Are you considering mesh sides or solid side extensions for your trailer? In this article, we'll explain the differences and help you decide which option best suits your transport needs.
Frequently asked questions about trailer mesh side extensions
What are mesh side extensions for a trailer?
Mesh side extensions are raised, open steel panels that are fitted to the sides of a trailer. They increase the trailer's loading capacity without adding much extra weight.
How high are standard mesh side extensions?
Most mesh side extensions are approximately 70 centimetres (27.5 inches) high.
Which is better: mesh side extensions or solid side extensions?
It depends on what you transport. Mesh side extensions are ideal for bulky loads such as branches, garden waste and shrubs. Solid side extensions are better suited for smaller items or loose materials.
Can I transport loose materials with mesh side extensions?
Yes, but loose loads must always be properly secured. In many situations, a trailer cargo net or tarpaulin is required.
Can I install mesh side extensions on an existing trailer?
For many trailer models, mesh side extensions can easily be added as an accessory. Always check whether your trailer is compatible before purchasing.
What are mesh side extensions for a trailer?
Mesh side extensions are a practical trailer accessory that allows you to increase the loading volume of your trailer quickly and easily. They consist of a strong, open steel frame that is mounted on top of the existing trailer sides.
Most mesh side extensions are manufactured from galvanised steel, making them durable, corrosion-resistant and suitable for year-round outdoor use. A standard set is typically around 70 centimetres high, significantly increasing the trailer's capacity without adding substantial weight.
Because the top remains open, you can easily monitor your load while loading and during transport.
A trailer with mesh side extensions is commonly used by:
- landscapers and gardeners transporting plants, trees and garden waste;
- contractors and construction professionals carrying lightweight building materials;
- homeowners who regularly transport branches, hedge cuttings or other bulky items.
If you often need extra loading capacity but don't want to invest in a larger trailer, mesh side extensions offer a practical and cost-effective solution.
Mesh side extensions or solid side extensions: what's the difference?
If you want to increase your trailer's carrying capacity, you can choose between mesh side extensions and solid side extensions. Both increase the height of the trailer sides, but each is designed for different types of loads.
Mesh side extensions
Mesh side extensions feature an open steel mesh construction. This keeps the trailer lightweight while providing considerably more loading volume.
Benefits of mesh side extensions:
- increased loading capacity with minimal additional weight;
- strong galvanised steel construction;
- excellent visibility of the load;
- ideal for garden waste, branches and bulky materials;
- easy loading and unloading thanks to the open design.
One important consideration is that small items or loose materials may fall through the mesh. For that reason, mesh side extensions are less suitable for transporting sand, gravel or other loose materials.
Solid side extensions (side boards or panels)
Solid side extensions, also called side boards or side panels, also increase the trailer's loading capacity but feature fully enclosed sides. This keeps smaller materials safely inside the trailer.
Solid side extensions are ideal for transporting:
- sand;
- gravel;
- smaller building materials;
- loose cargo.
Another advantage is that solid side extensions are available in different heights, typically ranging from 30 to 70 centimetres. This allows you to choose the configuration that best matches your work.
Ultimately, whether mesh side extensions or solid side extensions are the better choice depends on the type of loads you transport most frequently.
Why choose a trailer with mesh side extensions?
Mesh side extensions are especially useful if you regularly transport bulky or high-volume loads. Typical examples include branches, plants, shrubs and large quantities of garden waste.
Because the mesh construction is relatively lightweight, it has very little impact on the trailer's payload capacity. At the same time, the additional height allows you to carry more material without investing in a larger trailer.
Another advantage is improved visibility while loading. Since the sides are not completely enclosed, you can easily see how full the trailer is and how much space is still available.
Whether a trailer with mesh side extensions is the right choice ultimately depends on your work, the type of cargo you transport and how often you need extra loading volume.
How to transport loads safely with mesh side extensions
A trailer fitted with mesh side extensions offers more loading capacity, but load security should always remain your top priority.
Depending on the type of cargo, use:
- ratchet straps to secure solid items firmly in place;
- a trailer cargo net or tarpaulin for loose materials such as garden waste, rubble or stones.
Whenever you're unsure, it's always better to secure your load more thoroughly. A properly secured load prevents materials from falling or blowing off the trailer while driving.
Choose the right trailer cargo net
For trailers fitted with mesh side extensions, a custom-fit trailer cargo net is often the best solution. It fits neatly over the load area and can easily be secured to the mesh sides.
Also make sure that branches, sharp objects or other materials do not protrude through the mesh in a way that could endanger other road users. If necessary, take additional precautions to secure the load safely.
Safe transport always starts with the right combination of:
- a suitable trailer;
- sufficient payload capacity;
- properly secured cargo.
Looking to buy a trailer with mesh side extensions?
If you're looking to buy a trailer with mesh side extensions, EDUARD can help you find the right solution.
Using the EDUARD online trailer configurator, you can build a trailer that perfectly matches your requirements. For example, you can choose:
- mesh side extensions for additional loading volume;
- solid side extensions for carrying smaller materials;
- the dimensions that suit your work;
- practical trailer accessories for your transport needs.
Configure your trailer with mesh side extensions online and discover the model that best fits your business or personal use.
Get personal advice from an EDUARD dealer
Not sure which trailer configuration is right for you?
Visit an EDUARD dealer near you for expert advice. Our dealers will help you choose a trailer that matches your vehicle, your type of work and the loads you transport most often.
That way, you can be confident you're investing in a trailer that is safe, practical and built to meet your transport requirements.
