Automatic Tarp Systems: A Guide for Truck and Trailer Fleets

A durable, accurately sized tarp system is necessary for reliable load securement during hauling. These systems protect payloads from external elements and ensure safe and compliant transport. For frequent, large scale hauling operations, automatic tarp systems further improve security and efficiency, speeding up the loading and unloading process while reducing operator fatigue and manual labor.

If you’re a fleet manager or hauling operator looking for secure load containment solutions that help boost productivity and ensure compliant coverage, this guide can help you choose the right automatic tarp system for your trucks or trailers.

Understanding Automatic Tarp Systems

Automatic tarp systems use a motor to deploy and retract tarps with the push of a button from inside the cab or with a remote control. With remote features for easy operations and built-in sensors to automatically stop movement when tarp tension is high or if an object is detected, these tarp systems enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Suitable for a wide range of industries like construction, landscaping and waste, the 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.

There are various types of automatic tarp systems used in the industry. Roll tarp systems are mostly used in agricultural applications and operate with a side-to-side tarping mechanism that covers the load across the trailer. Arm-style tarp system remains the most common for construction, landscaping and waste applications. Here’s a brief overview:

Arm-Style Systems

Arm-style tarp systems are used with dump trucks, end dumps, belly dumps, and pup trailers used in the construction, road repair, junk hauling, landscaping, and agriculture industries. These tarp systems have spring-loaded or motor-assisted arms mounted on the side that extend 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 SmartSwitch™ in-cab and external switches, making them suitable for both fleet and solo operations.

For truck tarp systems, Pulltarps offers automatic arm-style systems with heavy-duty pivots for smoothly lifting the tarp over the load. 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. It comes with a black powder-coated finish that adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, enhancing the tarp system’s longevity.

For landscapers using more general-purpose work trucks, the Pulltarps Steel Protector™ is another popular automatic tarp system. It’s ideal for smaller dump truck bodies that require some protection from falling debris. The galvanized steel housing can hold up to 18 feet of tarp.

Tarp Systems for the Waste Industry

If you need peaked or irregular coverage for roll-off and hook-lift applications, Pulltarps offers telescoping tower tarp systems with a hydraulic power pack to raise and lower the tarp housing. The tower is a universal design that can be ordered as an automatic electric arm system, an electric pull-out system without arms, or a manual pull-out Pulltarp system.

Semi-Automatic Tarp Systems

For lighter loads, semi-automatic tarp systems offer an economical and reliable solution. Most systems use a hand crank mechanism to cover and uncover the load, which is strenuous and time consuming!

If you’re looking for an easy to use semi-automatic tarp system, Pulltarps SuperShield semi-automatic tarp system uses spring tension for smooth, crank-free operation. A built-in ratchet system lets operators adjust the spring tension in the roller tube, keeping the tarp tight when fully extended when in use, and then allowing for quick and easy retraction of the tarp when it’s time to unload or load.

Matching Tarp Systems to Fleet Needs

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: Construction and landscaping loads like mulch and gravel need secure containment to prevent litter and debris. Mesh tarps are breathable and reduce wind resistance, making them perfect 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. Pulltarps also offers Tie Down Tarps, which will help to stop the tarp from flapping in the wind, increasing the life of your tarp and keeping your load completely covered.

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

Tarping Frequency: Large scale fleet operations need tarp systems that can be deployed quickly and safely. Features like in-cab and external controls, a strong motor for dependable performance and security add-ons like weather protection and auto-stop functions that detect faults and objects.

Lastly, always choose suppliers that offer an easy repair and replacement process and original high quality parts for a durable tarp system that can withstand the demands of frequent and heavy duty hauling.

Pulltarps manufactures all components of their tarping systems in California and offers a five-year warranty on their motors. Our replacement tarps are cut, assembled and shipped out to you, normally shipped within 3-4 business days.

Need help building your truck tarp system? Try the Pulltarps 3-step configurator to get the right size and fit.

High Quality Tarp Systems Designed for Safe Hauling

A tarp system that matches your hauling requirements ensures reliable coverage and safe hauling. Automatic tarp systems are designed to withstand heavy duty and high-volume fleet operations which help reduce downtime, meet compliance regulations, and allow for a more productive hauling schedule, enabling more loads per shift.

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.