Schmitz or Krone semi-trailer: what to buy on the secondary market
Among curtain-side semi-trailers on the secondary market, Schmitz and Krone are the two you'll run into most often. Both are German manufacturers that have long been active in international transport. They have a straightforward design, are well known to service shops, and because of that they are consistently available on the market. So carriers usually consider models from exactly these two makers.
Comparing the two
In technical terms, Schmitz is often chosen for its well-thought-out design and service logic. The brand's curtain-side semi-trailers use a galvanized bolted MODULOS chassis. The manufacturer gives it a 10-year warranty against through-corrosion. The S.CS UNIVERSAL model comes with the TrailerConnect telematics module. The body can also meet the DIN EN 12642 Code XL rigidity standard. In the reinforced KP+ version, the chassis is rated for a trailer load of up to 18 t. The reinforced-chassis variant allows hauling compact heavy loads of up to 25 t.
Krone, for its part, is often chosen for practicality, repairability and a good ratio of tare weight to payload. The Profi Liner uses a modular design. Many components here are pre-galvanized: the outer frame, corner posts, and side and rear protection. The standard curb weight of the model is 5,940 kg. The permissible axle load is 27,000 kg, and the kingpin load is 12,000 kg. The technically possible payload capacity is around 33,060 kg. The manufacturer also highlights that the outer beam has 30% higher bending strength. The coupling height is adjustable within a 1,050–1,170 mm range. For the secondary market, that's a plus. This kind of semi-trailer is worth considering where a lower tare weight, simpler repairs and a strength reserve for daily work matter most.
Secondary-market prices
In the , Schmitz is represented across a wider price range, while Krone can be a more affordable option to buy. In the curtain-side semi-trailer segment, Schmitz prices roughly start at $7,000 and go up to $16,000 + VAT depending on year of manufacture and condition. Older or simpler modifications, such as the "tautliner bag" type, can start from around $3,000. Krone's price range is more modest: curtain-side variants usually start around $6,500, while older "bag" types run $3,500–4,000 + VAT. However, all the equipment at tirkomis comes from carriers, so its condition and operating history are clear and it usually doesn't require major additional investment.
If you need a broader basis for choosing, it's also worth reading — it will help you get oriented not only between Schmitz and Krone, but also among other body types.
