Increased payload in intermodal transport

September 2024 – The new rail-compatible S.CS MEGA curtainsider semi-trailer offers more payload and combines the volume of a roadworthy vehicle with the benefits of a robust body that can be used for rail transport.

In the European freight transport sector, semi-trailers that are transported by rail often cover long distances across multiple countries. While the use of high-volume semi-trailers is normal for South West Europe or Central Europe, they are slightly more unusual in Northern Europe due to different legal frameworks. For transport companies that are active in these regions and travel in both directions, this remains a constant challenge as they often don’t have a suitable tractor unit with the right fifth wheel height or axle configuration.

With the carefully designed overall concept of the new rail-compatible (or crane-liftable) S.CS MEGA chassis, combined with the Schmitz Cargobull Multi-Ride Height pneumatic suspension and height-adjustable VARIOS body, the S.CS MEGA offers haulage companies a high-volume trailer that can significantly improve the efficiency of their Europe-wide transport strategy.

With the low frame neck height, extended offset area and a corresponding landing gear position, the galvanised chassis can be used for a variety purposes. This means that the S.CS MEGA curtainsider semi-trailer can be used for combined transport across Europe and with electric or three-axle tractor units, while still complying with the various legal requirements.

Schmitz Cargobull has been successively installing its TrailerConnect® telematics system in all semi-trailers as a standard feature ex works since 2018. It offers a number of security functions, such as a new door contact switch for curtainsider semi-trailers. The smart door locking system ensures that freight is protected from unauthorised access, particularly in the semi-trailer’s hard-to-see rear area. This is only available in combination with the Schmitz Cargobull networked TrailerConnect® telematics solution.

Since early 2024, all trailers have been equipped with tyre pressure monitoring sensors as standard and now comply with the UN ECE R 141 standard, which has been in force since July 2024. This standard requires all newly approved semi-trailers to be equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) for registering tyre pressures. Schmitz Cargobull’s TPMS monitors the tyre pressure in real time and warns of sudden or gradual loss of pressure or of overpressure.