Tarp for Dump Trucks: Performance and Protection in Every Load

Tarps for dump trucks are essential for protecting loads and staying compliant with safety regulations. Whether you’re hauling construction materials like sand and gravel or handling refuse and other bulk loads, dump truck tarps help keep materials contained and protected from the elements, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient transport.

Choosing the right dump truck tarp system requires careful evaluation of the tarp material, system components, and vehicle configuration to find the right match for your needs. In this article, we will explore the benefits of a high performing dump truck tarp system and the factors to consider when selecting one for your fleet or business.

Factors to Consider Before Investing in a Dump Truck Tarp System

Optimal protection for every load requires a durable dump truck tarp system that can hold up under frequent use and harsh conditions. Here’s what you need to keep in mind before investing in a tarp for your dump truck:

Long-Term Value and ROI

A high-quality dump truck tarp system matched to your vehicle configuration and payload offers long-term value thanks to the operational efficiencies created. A quality system leads to fewer repairs and reduced downtime, allowing for more loads per shift.

Fully welded steel construction offers the best protection against falling debris, ensuring the system’s strength to withstand heavy-duty use. For dump truck bodies up to 40 feet, Pulltarps automatic SuperShield™ 9500E System is considered to be the strongest and most durable system available in the industry. With a black powder-coated finish and a 12-gauge steel construction, it protects against the elements and falling debris, ensuring reliable and compliant coverage.

Installation and Maintenance

Choose systems that are easy to install and maintain. Look for options that don’t require welding or fabrication of your vehicle and come with all necessary components and clear installation instructions. Systems made with quality dump truck tarp parts such as durable pivots, motors and switches, reduce the risk of breakdowns, helping maintain efficiency across your operations.

To further improve tarping, consider system accessories like tarp tamers or bows, which help keep the tarp tight against the truck body in windy conditions. Always choose suppliers that offer original dump truck parts and straightforward replacement options.

Pulltarps offers a full range of replacement tarps and dump truck parts online, including pull bars, bungee cords for flap tarps for quick and easy replacements.

Tarp Material for Dump Truck Systems

The type of dump truck tarp material you choose plays a pivotal role in your operational efficiency, tarp lifespan and load protection. Options include:

Mesh Tarps: These tarps for dump trucks are designed for higher breathability and less weight. They offer excellent air circulation, which makes them ideal for covering lightweight loads like demolition debris and landscaping material. Pulltarps heavy duty mesh tarps are manufactured with either 11oz or 18oz vinyl-coated polyester fabric and are built to hold up under harsh weather conditions and frequent use.

Vinyl Tarps: Durable and waterproof, vinyl tarps for dump trucks are perfect for heavy-duty applications like transporting gravel or sand for construction projects. Pulltarps vinyl tarps feature an 18oz fabric with rust proof grommets spaced every three feet for easy tie down or attachment, ensuring seamless full width coverage for dump trucks.

Asphalt Tarps: For specialized loads, asphalt tarps maintain temperature consistency and prevent the material from hardening. Pulltarps asphalt tarps feature grommets for secure closure and a waterproof urethane coating that prevents sticking to asphalt or burning through under extreme conditions.

Keep in mind that proper fit and sizing are as important as the tarp material. Most dump trucks need a tarp that extends several feet beyond the bed for proper coverage. The size depends on your dump truck tarp system and its mounting position. Automatic tarp systems generally require an additional four feet of tarp length, while semi-automatic systems need around two feet.

For specialized equipment or uneven loads, consider tailored to fit the exact dimensions of your vehicle for a precise fit and optimal coverage. Pulltarps offers custom tarps for dump trucks in vinyl, mesh or asphalt in automatic or semi-automatic options to match your vehicle configuration.

Need help measuring a new or replacement tarp for your dump truck? Pulltarps provides a system configurator to help you determine the best fit for your dump truck, ensuring your loads always stay safe and secure.

Types of Dump Truck Tarp Systems

Choosing the right dump truck tarp system based on your hauling needs improves efficiency, extends the lifespan of your truck, and helps maintain compliance with industry regulations.

Here are the different types of dump truck tarp systems to consider:

Automatic Systems

Automatic tarp systems are powered by an electric motor and swiftly cover your trailer with the flip of a switch. This negates the need for manual labor, providing additional safety and efficiency. Automatic dump truck tarp systems are an excellent solution for construction and agricultural applications where loose and heavy loads require secure handling and quick unloading and reloading.

Pulltarps’ automatic tarp systems can be operated by a wireless remote control. They also offer in-cab switches or external switches for convenient and safe operation.

Semi-Automatic Systems

Semi-automatic dump truck tarp systems offer a balance between cost and functionality. These systems can be deployed with one pull and are easier to operate than fully manual tarps. They provide safe coverage for debris, sand, gravel, and more, without the complexity of full automation.

The PullTarps SuperShield semi-automatic tarp system is one of the industry’s most popular systems. The SuperShield 8500M model can be used on dump bodies up to 18 feet, while the SuperShield 9500M can be used on dump bodies up to 40 feet.

Get Optimal Protection for Every Load with Durable Tarps for Dump Trucks

Reliable coverage for payloads starts with a dump truck tarp system matched to your load type and industry application. Quality dump truck tarp parts ensure easy maintenance and durability. The right tarp for dump trucks offers the proper coverage, while a system designed for quick, safe loading and unloading keeps your operations efficient and your loads secure on the road.

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.

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.