Roll Up Doors

What are Roll Up Doors?

Roll up doors, also known as coiling doors, operate by rolling up into a coil at the top of the door opening. They are typically made of horizontal interlocking slats (usually made of steel, aluminum, or durable synthetic materials) that roll onto a drum mounted above the door opening, as opposed to swinging outwards or upwards in a single piece.

These doors are widely used in delivery trucks, box trucks, and semi-trailers due to their unique blend of security and accessibility.

Benefits of Roll-Up Doors

Roll-up doors offer a host of benefits that make them an ideal choice for the trucking industry:

Space-saving: Since these doors roll up into a coil, they save considerable space both inside and outside the truck, which could be beneficial in tight loading and unloading areas.

Durability: Constructed from tough materials, roll-up doors can withstand the rigors of the road, providing reliable protection against the elements and potential theft.

Ease of Operation: Roll-up doors are designed to be user-friendly. They can be easily opened and closed, either manually or with an automated system.

Maintenance: Compared to other door types, roll-up doors generally require less maintenance. Their simple design contains fewer moving parts, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure.

Maintenance of Roll-Up Doors

While roll-up doors require less maintenance compared to traditional swinging doors, regular inspections and maintenance are still key to their longevity and safe operation. Some recommended maintenance practices include:

Regular Cleaning: Keep the door clean to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating in the tracks, which could interfere with the door’s smooth operation.

Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the moving parts (springs, bearings, and hinges) to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth movement.

Inspection: Regularly inspect the door for any signs of damage or wear and tear, including checks on the cables, rollers, and springs.

Professional Servicing: Serious issues or repairs should be handled by a professional to ensure the integrity of the door’s mechanism and safe operation.

Safety Practices

While roll-up doors are relatively safe to use, truckers should adhere to certain safety practices:

Proper Operation: Always use the door as directed by the manufacturer. Misuse can result in injury or damage to the door.

Keep Clear: Ensure the door area is clear of obstructions before opening or closing.

Emergency Release: Be familiar with the emergency release mechanism (if available) in case the door needs to be manually opened or closed due to a malfunction.
Learn about Swing Doors here.
Learn about Lift Gate here.
Learn about Load Bars here.
Learn about Cargo Straps here.

Learn more about the types of trailers used in the trucking industry.