Product type · Greenhouse systems
Tunnel and high-tunnel structures
What is a tunnel and high-tunnel structures?
Tunnels and high tunnels are arched, film-covered structures that protect crops from rain, wind and cold with little equipment. They are widely used for berries and cherries because they are quick to build and machinery can pass, but they offer far less climate control than a greenhouse.
Organic collection: Soil-grown protected cropping is the usual entry point for organic greenhouse vegetables and berries. Crops must root in living soil for EU organic; tunnel films and structures need no certification.
Documented specification examples
Examples from commercial datasheets and independent sources reviewed by SeedMatch on 26 October 2026 (source records held on file). They are not universal ranges, guarantees or offers; confirm every value in the supplier's quotation.
| Tunnel widths (examples) | about 6.2, 8.5 and 9.6 m |
|---|---|
| Ridge height (example) | up to about 4.75 m |
| Cover film (example) | 150–200 µm, initial light transmission above 87% |
| Ventilation | manual or motorised roll-up sides |
Typical applications: Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cherries and season-extension vegetables.
Indicative price: not published — no current, comparable sourced price was found. Prices come only from reviewed quotations.
Evidenced sourcing countries: France, United Kingdom, Kenya, South Africa (not a market ranking).
Advantages
- Fast installation, some designs anchor without concrete
- Good machinery access
- Protects fruit from rain damage
Limitations and risks
- Limited temperature control
- Film degrades with UV and dust
- Changes light and humidity, which can affect pollination and firmness
Maintenance
- Inspect anchors, hoops and vents after storms
- Clean or replace film
- Check roll-up mechanisms
Sustainability and compliance
Low equipment and energy use; weigh against plastic replacement and waste handling.
Some ranges state EN 13031-1 certification; ask for the wind rating that applies to your site.
Questions to ask in your RFQ
- What wind speed is the structure rated for?
- How are covers removed or vented in heat?
- What is the film replacement cycle?
Components it depends on and projects that use it
Used in project kits: Export blueberries in substrate, Organic soil-grown greenhouse vegetables
Compare with related types
| Type | Maturity | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel and high-tunnel structures | Mature | Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cherries and season-extension vegetables. |
| Venlo-type glass greenhouse | Mature | Tomato, cucumber, pepper, flowers and propagation in high-value markets. |
| Multi-span polyethylene greenhouse | Mature | Vegetables, berries, flowers and nursery production. |
| Semi-closed greenhouse with active climate control | Established | Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and berries in hot, dry or pest-pressured regions. |
Questions buyers ask
Tunnels and high tunnels are arched, film-covered structures that protect crops from rain, wind and cold with little equipment. They are widely used for berries and cherries because they are quick to build and machinery can pass, but they offer far less climate control than a greenhouse.
Inspect anchors, hoops and vents after storms. Clean or replace film. Check roll-up mechanisms.
Limited temperature control. Film degrades with UV and dust. Changes light and humidity, which can affect pollination and firmness.
Some ranges state EN 13031-1 certification; ask for the wind rating that applies to your site.
Add it to your shortlist with quantities and notes, then generate an RFQ. Our team reviews every request and coordinates suppliers; buyers and suppliers are not put in direct contact. Projects are qualified from USD 250,000.
Independent and official sources
Request tunnel and high-tunnel structures through SeedMatch
Requests go through SeedMatch Group. Our team reviews each request and coordinates supplier contact; buyers and suppliers are not put in direct contact. The buyer service is free, and projects are qualified from USD 250,000.
SeedMatch does not manufacture, sell or certify equipment and has no contracts implied with any manufacturer. Suppliers remain responsible for product compliance and export requirements.
Availability and the ability to trade depend on the law of each origin, destination and transit country and on the relevant permits and approvals. SeedMatch Group is not a manufacturer, importer, exporter, seller or regulatory approver; requests are reviewed by our team before any commercial introduction. Each participant is responsible for the requirements of its own role under applicable law: suppliers for their products in the origin and destination countries, buyers for their own import permissions and due diligence. We do not guarantee any supplier's compliance. Participant responsibilities · Regulation & restricted items