Dividers for Truck Cargo

Loose or inadequately secured cargo is one of the most common causes of damage and accidents in road freight transport. Divider panels create stable, dimensionally stable sections within the cargo area, thereby helping to ensure proper cargo securing. Aircell partition panels from VACU-form consist of patented deep-drawn PP air-chamber panels and weigh significantly less than traditional wooden or metal partitions. For freight forwarders, fleet operators, and body manufacturers, this means: greater payload capacity, easier handling, and a solution that can be precisely tailored to the specific vehicle dimensions.

Aircell partition panels consist of three precisely matched PP film layers. Through the patented deep-drawing process, the middle layer takes on a three-dimensional honeycomb structure that evenly distributes pressure and impact forces—more details on the technology can be found on our page about the 3D honeycomb structure. The result is panels that are up to 70% lighter than solid, solid-material solutions while offering comparable stability. For cargo compartment partitions, this means less dead weight on the axle and more room for payload. The smooth, closed surface is weather-, moisture-, and chemical-resistant, as well as corrosion- and rot-free—properties that are particularly relevant when dealing with varying cargo types and frequent loading and unloading. Edges can be left open or sealed, depending on the requirements for the specific partition. You can use our panel configurator to determine the appropriate thickness and design for your application.

A direct comparison with traditional wooden or metal partitions reveals structural differences: Wood absorbs moisture and can swell, rot, or splinter—posing a risk to both the cargo and the operating personnel. Metal structures are susceptible to corrosion—unless they are made of stainless steel—and have a comparatively high weight. Aircell partition panels are made of PP, or upon request of PS, ABS, or HDPE; they are corrosion- and rot-resistant and can often be handled without additional lifting equipment. A detailed material comparison with additional criteria is available on our page “Aircell Panels in Comparison.” Important for practical application: Specific suitability always depends on the type of cargo, point loads, and operating conditions—for special requirements, we recommend a personalized consultation before implementation.

Load securing on German roads is mandated by Section 22 of the StVO; In addition, VDI Guideline 2700 (Load Securing on Road Vehicles) and DIN EN 12642 (Structural Strength of Commercial Vehicles) provide the technical framework according to which vehicle bodies and securing concepts are designed. Aircell partition panels are not a certified body structure as defined by DIN EN 12642, but they can be used as a dimensionally stable, lightweight partition element within a load-securing concept designed in accordance with the standard—the final design is the responsibility of the vehicle body manufacturer or the person responsible for load securing. Depending on the model, food-safe variants are available, which can be particularly relevant when transporting varying loads of food or food packaging. We would be happy to provide you with individualized advice on standard-specific questions regarding your specific fleet.

No two vehicles are alike—which is why Aircell divider panels are not off-the-shelf products, but are custom-cut to the desired length, width, and intended use. Using our panel configurator, you first select the desired dimensions and then choose one of ten thickness-grammage combinations ranging from 5 mm/1,500 g/m² for light-duty applications to 16 mm/6,000 g/m² for applications with the highest stability requirements. In addition, functional coatings are available: a TPE coating for improved slip resistance, an ESD version for electrostatically sensitive areas, and a nonwoven finish for a higher-quality appearance. Color and printing can be customized according to RAL standards or corporate design guidelines. Once you submit your specifications, you will typically receive a quote from our sales team within 24 hours.

The light weight of Aircell partition panels makes them easier to transport and install compared to solid wood or metal solutions—in many cases, no additional lifting equipment is required. The panels can be manufactured with open or closed edges and, upon request, finished with a fabric, foam, or nonwoven backing. For installation in the vehicle, we recommend professional installation by a body shop that will tailor the partition to the specific vehicle model and the intended securing system. For active fleet operations, the retrofit can generally be carried out in stages, allowing individual vehicles to be equipped independently of one another.