Loading-edge protection: film or trim – and how to measure
In short
A trim is a solid part made of plastic or stainless steel, shaped for one model and glued on. The transparent film is cut from your dimensions and leaves the paint colour as it is; it protects against superficial scratches, not dents. For heavy, angular loads a trim is the more robust choice.
With loading-edge protection there are two routes. What distinguishes film and trim, when which fits and how to measure the edge for the cut piece.
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What “loading-edge protection” usually means
Anyone searching for loading-edge protection usually finds a trim: a moulded part of plastic or stainless steel, shaped for a particular vehicle model and glued or mounted on the edge. It is a visible part with its own colour and surface.
Our loading-edge protection is something different: a transparent paint-protection film, cut to the dimensions of your loading edge. It is a fraction of a millimetre thick and independent of the vehicle model, because it is made from your dimensions.
Film or trim – when which?
The film fits if the paint is smooth and intact, the edge flat or only slightly curved – and the loading edge is to look as it would without protection. It protects against superficial scratches and abrasion marks when loading and unloading. A film does not protect against dents.
The trim fits if heavy, angular loads hit the edge with impacts that a thin film cannot absorb, or if the look of a trim is wanted. A trim is a solid part between load and paint.
The decision depends on how you use the vehicle: mostly shopping bags and suitcases, or regularly heavy, angular loads.
Fit: dimensions instead of model
A trim fits if one exists for your model. The film, by contrast, is made from your dimensions: as a rectangle, or as a trapezoid if the edge narrows towards the bumper. You do not need a vehicle registration document, just a tape measure.
For the loading edge of selected vehicle models there are also ready-made sets: pre-cut from High Gloss, with installation tools, at a fixed price. Which models are included and whether yours can already be ordered is shown on the ready-made sets page.
If you are unsure whether your edge is flat enough for a cut piece, send us a photo of the open tailgate and the approximate dimensions. We will tell you whether the film fits or whether a trim is the better choice.
How to measure the loading edge
Measure the edge in width at the bottom and top and the height of the area to be protected. When you open the tailgate you can see whether the edge narrows towards the bumper: then a trapezoid is the right shape; with equally wide sides, a rectangle. Note the dimensions in centimetres, accurate to a millimetre.
Stick a piece of tape at both ends as a marker and measure between the markers. That way you avoid slipping at a curve. For slightly curved edges: the film follows the curve with a little heat at the edge; strongly curved parts are not for a flat cut piece.
When ordering in the configurator you choose rectangle or trapezoid and enter the dimensions. The price line immediately shows you the area and the price; with the 1:1 trial template you can place the shape on the edge beforehand.
Choosing and applying the film
For the loading edge we recommend Premium Clear: the thicker of the two transparent films, in which fine, superficial scratches can even out in the surface. Deep cuts do not.
Applying: clean the surface free of grease and dust, align wet, squeegee from the centre outwards, press down the edges and let cure for 24 hours. The paint must be smooth and intact; on freshly painted surfaces you wait at least four weeks beforehand.
Important for a loading edge that is used often: press down damaged or lifted edges soon or renew the film before dirt gets underneath. A film that has been peeled off cannot be reused; for the same edge you order a new piece via your configuration link.
Frequently asked questions
Does the film protect against dents?
No. The film protects against superficial scratches and abrasion marks when loading and unloading, not against dents.
Do I need the film by vehicle model?
No. The film is made from your dimensions, independent of the model. For selected models there are also ready-made sets.
Rectangle or trapezoid?
A rectangle for equally wide sides, a trapezoid if the edge narrows towards the bumper.
Can I peel the film off again later?
Yes. Peel slowly and flat; for older applications a little heat helps. A film that has been peeled off cannot be used again.