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Automatic Truck Tarp Systems Built for Safer Fleet Operations

By Bill Huth | December 11, 2025

Automatic Truck Tarp Systems Built for Safer Fleet OperationsSafe and efficient hauling begins with properly secured and legally compliant load coverage. Heavy duty construction, demolition, and landscaping payloads require reliable tarping solutions that protect materials and maintain efficient operations.

Automatic tarp systems allow fleets to cover and uncover loads with the push of a button, reducing manual labor and exposure to weather, debris, and road hazards. For fleet managers and operators, the choice of a tarp system can affect daily operations, compliance, and long-term performance.

This article looks at the main factors to consider, the types of automatic truck tarp systems available, and how to select the right one for your hauling needs.

Automatic Tarp Systems for Easier, Safer Tarping

Automatic tarp systems are designed for ease of use and efficiency. They use a motor to deploy and retract tarps with the push of a button from inside the cab or with a remote control. The wireless and remote features for easy operations and built in sensors to automatically stop movement when tarp tension is high or if an object.
Some of the benefits of automatic tarp systems include:

  • Allow for remote functionality, making operations safer and more efficient.
  • Reduce operator strain and manual labor, enabling faster operations.
  • Extend tarp life by stopping movement when deployment isn’t correct, preventing damage to the tarp and system.

Available in various configurations, these tarp systems can be tailored to your vehicle configuration and application. Automatic trailer and truck tarp systems can provide full coverage for large and heavy loads, ensuring secure containment of loose materials to prevent debris and protecting materials from wind and moisture.

Arm style truck tarp systems are used with dump trucks, end dumps, belly dumps, and pup trailers, typically in the construction, demolition, and landscaping industries. These systems use side-mounted arms powered by an electric motor for automated functionality and hydraulics on larger applications to roll the tarp from the front to the rear.

Pulltarps automatic tarp systems are equipped with a 1.3 HP motor for high performance and a galvanized or powder-coated 12-gauge steel housing for durable tarp protection. All tarp systems come with a Switch in-cab or wireless remote control, making them suitable for both fleet and solo operations.

Pulltraps Tarp Systems: Engineered for Durability and Superior Load Protection

Automatic Truck Tarp Systems Built for Safer Fleet OperationsPulltarps tarping systems cater to various trailer types, including dump trailers, flatbeds, and more. Each system is designed with the user in mind, balancing durability, functionality, and ease of use.

Some of our most popular automatic tarp systems include:
For truck tarp systems, Pulltarps offers automatic arm-style systems with heavy-duty pivots for smoothly lifting the tarp over loads. The SuperShield™ 9500E System is designed to meet the rigorous demands of dump truck operations and is recommended for large dump truck bodies up to 40 feet. This truck tarp system comes with a black powder-coated finish that adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, enhancing the tarp system’s longevity.

The Pulltarps Steel Protector +™ (Automatic) System is another popular automatic tarp system. The Steel Protector+ works with all types of dump truck bodies that require some protection from falling debris. The galvanized steel housing can hold up to 28 feet of tarp.

Pulltarps also offers in-house manufactured tarps and a range of tarp parts, accessories and replacements, both ready to order and custom designed. Our tarp material range includes:

  • Mesh Tarps: Ideal for lightweight loads that require ventilation, like soil or stone.
  • Vinyl Tarps: Perfect for heavy-duty applications with maximum weather resistance, like gravel or sand.
  • Asphalt Tarps: Designed to handle high temperatures and tough conditions, these tarps are used for transporting hot asphalt or paving materials.

Pulltarps manufactures their tarping systems in California and offers a five-year warranty on their motors. Our replacement tarps are shipped within 3-4 business days with instructions specific to your tarp system.

Follow our news and updates, or visit our resources for guidance on tarp material selection, tarp system choice, installation, and maintenance.

How to Choose the Right Automatic Tarp System for Your Hauling Application

The value and performance of a tarp system depend on matching it to your hauling requirements. Here are a few important factors to consider before investing in an automatic tarp system:
Load Type: Mesh tarps are breathable and reduce wind resistance, making them ideal for transporting light and loose loads. Heavy loads like machinery and refuse waste are suited to solid vinyl tarps that provide waterproof coverage and UV protection.

Tarp Fitting: To get full coverage, match your tarp length to your truck body or trailer bed, accounting for the overhang and mounting position. Automatic tarp systems usually need an additional four feet of tarp length.

System Compatibility: Make sure the truck tarp system matches your vehicle size and configuration as even minor discrepancies can impact system functionality and performance.

Automatic Tarp Systems Built for Heavy Duty Hauling

Automatic tarp systems improve fleet efficiency and safety by reducing loading and unloading time, ensuring secure coverage and helping fleets achieve a higher ROI. These modern truck tarp systems are built for durability with features tailored to specific hauling requirements, making them a smart investment for any hauling operation.

The Pulltarps® System Configurator makes selecting a trailer or truck tarp system easy. Start customizing your perfect truck or trailer tarp system today. If you’re ready to order, but have some questions, contact our customer service team.