A powered side panel system is used in conjunction with a loading bed found on trailers and other flatbed vehicles. The system includes a side panel having a vertical member. The side panel is configured to pivot about a panel axis in communication with the trailer. A lever arm extends between the side panel and an actuator. The actuator pivots the lever arm about a lever axis. The lever arm contacts the vertical member and controls the rate of radial motion of the side panel about the panel axis. A control unit is configured to regulate the operation of the actuator device.