The Ultimate Guide to Trailer Tarp Covers

Trailer tarp covers are essential for protecting loads, ensuring safety during transport and providing protection from the weather. Proper tarping is essential in applications such as landscaping, waste management, logging and construction. These industries leverage trailers because they are rugged and are available in a range of styles and body types that can be customized based on your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore different types of tarp systems, including automatic and semi-automatic tarp systems, lumber tarps, and universal throw tarps, and provide insights into choosing the right tarp system for your trailer.

Trailers, which are unpowered vehicles towed by powered vehicles, play a crucial role in transporting materials to and from a job site. End dump trailers are particularly common in the construction, demolition, agricultural, and landscaping markets. The name comes from how they off-load the contents – the lifting mechanism at the front of the trailer dumps the load.

Open-air utility trailers are beneficial for landscaping businesses because they can transport tools, equipment, soil, mulch and more. They are low to the ground making them easy to load and extremely cost-effective to operate.

Whether it’s landscaping materials such as dirt and mulch, or sand and gravel for road construction, most states require trucks and trailers to be covered so that no materials can escape. Investing in the proper tarping system is key to getting the most out of your trailer. But before you jump headfirst into buying the same old tarping system, take time to analyze your needs and the options available.

When choosing a tarp system for your needs, several key elements should be considered to ensure optimal safety and efficiency.

Type of trailer and load: Trailers offer a reliable way to transport materials, but they come in many different sizes and axle types with options for various hitches or gate styles. Pulltarps® has resources to help you find the right type and size of tarp for your needs.

Frequency of use: Frequent users may benefit from an automatic tarp system, while occasional users might find semi-automatic or manual tarps sufficient. Remember, the goal is to save time and provide an additional layer of safety.

Budget and specific needs: Sometimes the cheapest tarping systems end up costing more over the long run in truck down-time, maintenance or part replacements. Do your research and invest in a quality system that supports productivity and safety.

Straight Tarps

Straight tarps can cover any trailer with a heavy-duty mesh, asphalt or waterproof vinyl tarp. Look for tarping systems that are well-constructed and extremely durable. Fully welded steel construction offers the best protection against falling debris, ensuring the system’s strength to withstand heavy-duty use.

The durability of the individual components is also key, as these systems will be used throughout the workday. A powerful electric motor ensures a reliable performance and can handle the demands of frequent use. Opting for a system that includes a warranty provides added peace of mind.

The SuperShield™ 9500E System is designed to meet the rigorous demands of dump trailer operations and is the strongest and most durable automatic tarp system available in the industry. The system comes with a black powder-coated finish that adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, enhancing the tarp system’s longevity. This finish not only helps in resisting corrosion and wear but also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the truck

Side Flap Tarps

Side flap system tarps provide maximum coverage for your trailer tarp. The tie down ropes are attached to the middle of the tarp, so that when you pull the tie down rope from the back, it will cause the flap to flip up on top of the tarp. The front of the flap is tapered so that the tarp rolls up neatly on the roller. This ground-operated system is so unique it is patented by Pulltarps®.

Universal Throw Tarps

Although we’ve highlighted the benefits of automatic and semi-automatic systems, manual tarps certainly have their place. Universal throw tarps are versatile covers that can be used in various hauling scenarios, and in particular as utility trailer tarps. They are easy to deploy and can cover different types of loads quickly. These tarps are ideal for situations where flexibility and quick coverage are needed.

Lumber Tarps

Lumber tarps are specifically designed to cover and protect lumber and other bulky loads. They are essential for preventing damage from weather conditions and ensuring the load remains secure during transit. Lumber tarps are commonly used in the construction and transportation industries to protect building materials.

The Lumber Tarps from Pulltarps® are a lightweight and waterproof vinyl. Each tarp measures 24′ wide by 28′ long and features hems reinforced webbing and solid brass grommets.