Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Even a single truck benefits from faster tarping, reduced labour, and fewer repair costs. Over the long term, improved productivity and fewer delays can offset the initial cost. The downtime impacts of smaller fleets are felt more significantly as well, so it’s critical to avoid torn tarps, damaged components, and roadside compliance issues.

Yes. Semi-automatic tarp systems are commonly used for construction, landscaping, demolition, and other hauling applications. Choose high-quality tarp systems with durable construction and components for reliable performance. Pulltarps semi-automatic SuperShield™ 8500M Tarp System is considered to be the strongest and most durable system available in the industry. Designed for smaller dump truck bodies up to 18 feet, the system features fully welded 12-gauge steel construction and offers the best protection from falling debris. For larger applications, consider the Supershield 9500M semi-automatic tarp system, which can hold up to 30 feet of tarp.

Yes. Regulations require that cargo be secured so it cannot leak, spill, blow, or fall from a vehicle during transit. If debris is visible leaving the truck bed, inspectors can issue a violation.

Yes. Systems that maintain even, secure load coverage reduce the chance of debris escaping during transport, which is the primary enforcement concern under state and federal tarp regulations.

If you need to have a Tarping System installed and don’t have the ability to do it on your own, you can use our Locate A Service Center page to locate an approved Service Center in your area. We also provide detailed instructions and telephone tech support, so you can install the systems yourself or have your local truck repair or welding shop do it for you. Our customer service department is happy to answer any questions.

Yes. All our tarps have an individualized number printed on them to help facilitate repeat orders. When it’s time to reorder, simply give us the number, and we will create the same tarp without verifying measurements again.

Pulltarps Universal Fit tarps can fit most competitive systems for construction, asphalt, waste or railway transportation systems. Please visit our Build-A-Tarp page to create the perfect sized tarp for your vehicle. Or just call us at (877) 434-2276.

Yes. Mesh tarps can be used with both automatic and semi-automatic tarp systems. The tarp must match the system size, roller configuration, and mounting position to ensure proper deployment and full load coverage.

Yes. Constant sun exposure, heavy rain, and highway wind all affect tarp durability during repeated hauling. Vinyl tarps may stiffen in cold weather or fade under prolonged UV exposure. Mesh tarps handle heat and airflow better but are more exposed to moisture and debris buildup. Choosing tarp materials suited to your climate and hauling conditions helps reduce premature wear and replacement frequency.

Yes. Constant sun exposure, freezing temperatures, heavy rain, and highway wind all affect tarp durability during repeated hauling. Vinyl tarps may stiffen in cold weather or fade under prolonged UV exposure. Mesh tarps handle heat and airflow better but are more exposed to moisture and debris buildup. Choosing tarp materials suited to your climate and hauling conditions helps reduce premature wear and replacement frequency.

Automatic dump truck tarp systems can save you money in the long run. They decrease the time to cover/uncover your load. This means less time at the job site and more loads per shift for your drivers. They also eliminate time spent climbing and handling the tarp manually. Less physical effort means less fatigue and a decreased likelihood of injuries and workers comp claims.

Automatic dump truck tarp systems allow faster loading and unloading with less manual handling. This lowers labor costs and helps complete more loads per shift, improving productivity and overall revenue.

Inspectors check if the tarp can effectively contain the load. Visible damage that affects containment may be cited as an unsecured load violation. Under federal cargo securement rules, cargo must be covered and secured so it cannot fall or shift, and visible damage or gaps that compromise coverage can result in a violation during a roadside inspection.

You may need bent arms if the arms and pivot points can potentially be in the way of containers and compactors or, if housing is not mounted level to the side rails.

To find our warranty information, check our Double Guarantee page. If you have any other questions that were not answered in this section, feel free to contact our customer service team via the chat or by calling (877) 426-9877.

Our Universal Fit tarps can be used with other brands of tarp systems. 

You can create a waterproof tarp for any purpose by using our Build-A-Tarp page. We do have lumber tarps for flatbed trailers; our lumber tarps measurements are 27’ x 24’ with 8’ foot drops, 3 rows of “D” rings, 2’ grommet spacing and 10” rain flaps. We also offer throw tarps for general purposes; contact [email protected] or call 877.431.2865 to discuss our tarp options.

No. Our Semi-Automatic tarps and Automatic arm systems are easy to deploy and do not require a hand crank. All of our other arm systems have electric drives.

Not at this time, but our sister company, Roll Rite, has Roll Over or Side Roll tarp systems.

While not a guaranteed fuel-efficiency feature, a properly tensioned tarp that sits close to the load helps minimize flapping and aerodynamic drag, improving stability and load containment at higher speeds.

We have dealers in most parts of the country. Please call us, (877) 434-2276 for the most current dealers in your area or locate a truck tarping dealer who performs installations by entering your zip code.

Yes, our motors have a standard three bolt pattern that is common in the industry.

Heaped loads are normal for dump trucks, so the key is making sure the tarp system is in good condition and sized correctly for the body. Operators should watch for damage or misalignment in the tarp and arms. Regular visual inspections to confirm the tarp deploys smoothly and covers the load from housing to tailgate will reduce the risk of product loss or citations.

Frequent hauling, heat, UV exposure, and dust can increase wear on tarp systems during summer. Regular inspections, lubrication of moving components, and prompt replacement of worn parts can help prevent downtime. Choosing tarp systems with durable components and easy access to replacement parts can also help extend service life.

The minimum tarp length needed on an automatic system is 3’ longer than the truck body. The minimum tarp length on a semi-automatic system is 2’ longer than the truck body, although, tarp lengths may exceed 5’ longer than the bed if the system housing is mounted above the rail.

Semi-automatic and fully automatic tarp systems each offer specific benefits. Automatic systems deliver faster operation and better safety; housing-mounted systems provide maximum protection and coverage. The right choice usually comes down to the style and length of the truck body, what you’re hauling, and how often the truck needs to be tarped during a typical shift.

Basically tarp replacement is the same for manual, arm, electric, or tower systems. The tarp must be fully extended and all tension must be removed. (The roller is pinned on manual Pulltarps to hold the tension and the arms are removed from the pull bar on automatic arm systems.) The tarp can then slide out of the groove in the roller tube, pull bar or pullrod.

Complete instructions can be found on our website under the Technical Documents. Or just call us at (877) 434-2276. Ordering a replacement tarp is easy if you purchased a Pulltarps tarp. On the inside front of the tarp there is an individualized part number created just for you. Call us with that number and we can duplicate your tarp exactly.

Complete instructions can be found on our website under the Technical Documents. Or just call us at (800) 368-3075. Ordering a replacement tarp is easy if you purchased a Pulltarps tarp. On the inside front of the tarp there is an individualized part number created just for you. Call us with that number and we can duplicate your tarp exactly.

Your new tarp can ship out in 48 hours with instructions that pertain to your specific system. Of course, we can always make a replacement tarp from scratch to your dimensions.

Mesh tarps help contain loose materials and debris during transport. Properly secured tarps reduce the risk of material escaping the truck bed, which helps fleets meet load-covering regulations.

Electric Pulltarps® Systems are designed for longer applications where spring tension alone is not enough to return the tarp. The electric motor feeds the tarp out while the pivots provide tension, then retracts the tarp back in. For more information please click here.

That depends on your technical and mechanical abilities. Pulltarps provides all of our tarp system technical documents and easy-to-follow instructions. We have found that most people who have difficulty installing the system did not read the instructions until they had a problem. Normally our systems take only a few hours to install.

There are many variables for shipping time frames. The type of system(s), sizes, destination, etc. Generally, you will receive your order within 5 to 7 days. We ship from our manufacturing and sales office in El Cajon, California.

Regular visual checks help catch tears, worn seams, and attachment issues before they lead to uncovered loads. Weekly routine tarp inspection and addressing damage early reduces the risk of citations during roadside inspections.

The return depends on hauling frequency and the number of loads completed each day. Automatic tarp systems reduce the time required to cover and uncover loads, allowing trucks to move through loading cycles faster. For fleets that run multiple trips per shift, the additional loads completed each day can help recover the initial system investment more quickly.

The return depends on hauling frequency and the number of loads completed each day. Automatic tarp systems reduce the time required to cover and uncover loads, allowing trucks to move through loading cycles faster. For fleets that run multiple trips per shift, the amount of time saved can help recover the initial system investment more quickly.

On most automatic and semi-automatic systems, tarp tension is set by the equipment design, so operators don’t usually adjust how tight the tarp is. The tarp should look the same each time it’s deployed. If you notice unusual slack, excessive flapping, or one side sitting lower than the other, it can be a sign of bent arms, misaligned hardware, or worn components that need attention.

Yes. We offer electric controls for Automatic Electric Arms. We have two different types of Smart Switches that have a switch in the cab and a Smart Switch with wireless remote control. Wireless remote Smart Switches are easy to install because there is no switch to wire and only four wires to connect. Wireless remote Smart Switches ship completely assembled and programmed ready to install. Unique transmitter codes do not interfere with other remote devices and can be operated from up to 150 feet away. External manual switch on control unit for backup.

Pulltarps patented Side Flap System works from the ground and is a lot safer than climbing up on the vehicle to tie down the load. Click here to see how side flaps work. Contact [email protected] or call 877.431.2865 to order a side flap tarp for your truck.

Not always. This usually happens when the cab shield height or roller position was not included when selecting tarp length. Systems mounted higher or farther forward on the cab shield need additional tarp material beyond the bed length to reach the front of the box. Use our bed length tarp guide for accurate and easy sizing.

Pulltarps makes 4- spring arm kits for applications on beds up to 22’; a single spring is needed for anything over 22’.

Tarps typically wear out more quickly when scraped across sharp or rough materials like rebar, broken concrete, or rough scrap. Overloaded or heaped-up loads can also create pressure points that lead to wear. Improperly sized tarps-force material to stretch or rub against side rails or hardware-mountings if the tarp is too short or too narrow. Heavy-duty mesh, vinyl and asphalt tarps that are sized and application specific help minimize these pressures for longer lasting tarp coverage.

Pulltarps’ patented Load Climber is a simple solution to keeping your pull rod from digging and hanging up in heaped loads when using a manual Pulltarp. Manual and Automatic Electric Arm systems are an even better solution to covering peaked loads. Especially, when your load is tree branches, shrubbery, construction demo or large rock.

Factors such as exposure to the sun, abrasive/sharp loads, and tarp cycle frequency are just some of the variables that affect how long your mesh tarp will last with everyday use. Loading damage as well as inadequate maintenance can also decrease lifespan. Proper care including routine cleaning, storing properly in the housing, and repairing as needed can reduce wear and tear and allow the tarp to last longer.

Depending on the size of the order, Pulltarps orders normally ship within 3 to 5 days. Some custom tarp systems can take longer to manufacture. Please contact our Customer Service department if you need an expedited order.

Pulltarps’ semi-automatic tarp systems are easy to deploy, it only takes one pull. We made these systems so that any adult can operate the tarp system.

Mesh may collect fine debris in the weave and requires periodic cleaning to prevent buildup. Vinyl needs inspection for stiffness or cracking, especially after hot or cold cycles. Both need regular tarp cleaning and inspection of seams and attachment points.

We offer heavy duty mesh, Urethane Coated fabrics for asphalt applications, 18 oz. vinyl for waterproof applications and extra thick woven mesh for waste hauling operations. See all replacement tarps.

Focus on load type, operating temperature, and containment needs first, then confirm the tarp’s weight, width, and attachment style are compatible with your automatic arms or roller.

Start with bed length and bed width measurements, then check where the spool is mounted, whether on the cab shield, above the rails, or farther back on the body. When system details are unclear, our Build-A-Tarp Configurator works as a sizing guide to help match tarp size using body dimensions instead of system model information.

If you need a complete tarp system, Pulltarps also offers a Build Your Tarp System Configurator that helps match automatic and semi-automatic tarp systems to your truck, trailer, and hauling application.

We recommend an electric arm system for tarping peaked loads and for longer dump truck boxes. Pulltarps Semi-Automatic systems are easy to deploy and use, but they can only cover 28 feet of a truck bed; an automatic system from Pulltarps takes less time to cover a load and covers trucks up to 40 feet.

Matching the tarp system to the truck configuration and hauling application. Proper fit and system use will improve coverage, reduce wear, and help avoid expenses due to damage, delays, and repairs.

The biggest driver of cost savings is how well the tarp system matches the truck configuration and hauling application. Selecting a system that is proportioned to the body length, side height and material being hauled will ensure full coverage of the load without overstressing the tarp and hardware which causes excessive wear.

Trucks that will be tarped multiple times a day typically require an automatic system to justify the investment; however trucks that only need to be tarped once or twice a day can typically get by with a semi-automatic system. When you select a system that is optimized for your truck and application you eliminate the unnecessary damage, downtime and compliance fines.

Roll over or side to side tarp systems are the only design that can be called “watertight”. However, tarps are made with side flaps from asphalt tarp material and 18 oz. vinyl provides good protection from rain.

Mesh is often preferred for repeated loading and unloading because it handles friction and movement well. Vinyl is suitable for frequent use too, but is typically chosen when the load requires full coverage or must remain dry during multiple stops.