In the world of long-haul trucking, where cargo protection is critical, the role of coil tarps in Over-the-Road (OTR) shipping must be considered. These specialized tarpaulins are essential in protecting cylindrical or coiled cargo during transportation. Unlike standard flatbed tarps, coil tarps are custom-fitted to provide a snug and secure cover for these distinctive loads.
Definition of Coil Tarps
Coil tarps, short for "coiled cargo tarps," are heavy-duty, specialized tarpaulins designed to protect cylindrical or coiled cargo during transportation. They are tailored to accommodate the unique shape and requirements of cylindrical loads such as steel coils, aluminum rolls, wire spools, and other coiled cargo. These tarps are made from durable and weather-resistant materials to shield the cargo from environmental elements like rain, snow, and UV rays, which can cause corrosion and damage.
Importance of Coil Tarps in OTR Shipping
The transportation industry relies heavily on the OTR method for moving a wide range of goods and materials across vast distances. OTR trucking is the backbone of our modern economy, ensuring that products, equipment, and raw materials reach their intended destinations.
With their tailored design and secure fit, coil tarps protect heavy and irregularly shaped coiled materials from damage, corrosion, and theft during transit.
Specialized Uses of Coil Tarps
Coil tarps have specialized uses due to the unique requirements of coiled cargo. They are commonly used in steel, aluminum, copper, wire, and cable industries. In the steel industry, coil tarps protect steel coils, protecting them from exposure to the elements and movement during transit. Similarly, in the aluminum and copper industries, coil tarps safeguard valuable coiled materials. In the wire and cable industry, coil tarps prevent tangling, abrasion, and damage during transport.
Advantages of Coil Tarps
Coil tarps offer several important advantages that make them the go-to choice for transporting coiled cargo:
Tailored Fit:
Unlike generic flatbed tarps, coil tarps are custom-fitted to the dimensions of the coiled cargo. This tailored fit minimizes the risk of load shift and damage during transit.
Weather Resistance:
Coil tarps are constructed from durable and weather-resistant materials to protect valuable cargo from rain, snow, UV rays, and other environmental factors that could cause corrosion or damage.
Secure Fastening:
Coil tarps come equipped with features like grommets, D-rings, tie-downs, and webbing, ensuring that the tarp is correctly secured to the trailer and the cargo to prevent the tarp from coming loose during transit.
Protection Against Abrasion:
Coil tarps are designed with corner pockets and flaps to protect the edges of coiled cargo from abrasion, which could damage protective coatings, paints, or surface treatments.
Materials and Construction of Coil Tarps
Fabric Selection
Coil tarps are crafted from materials like vinyl, canvas, and polyethylene, chosen for their durability, water resistance, breathability, and abrasion resistance.
Vinyl: Vinyl is a popular choice for coil tarps due to its exceptional durability and water and UV resistance. The smooth surface of vinyl also reduces friction, minimizing the risk of abrasion on the cargo's surface.
Canvas: Canvas coil tarps are suitable for materials that require ventilation during transportation. Canvas tarps are often treated to protect against water penetration, sunlight damage, and mold/mildew growth.
Polyethylene: Polyethylene tarps are lightweight and highly resistant to chemicals and moisture. Reinforced polyethylenes are waterproof and feature exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion.
Coating and Weather Resistance
Coil tarps are subject to weather conditions ranging from heavy rain to intense sunlight. To ensure optimal protection for coiled cargo, tarp manufacturers often apply coatings and treatments that enhance the tarp's weather resistance:
Waterproof Coatings: Many coil tarps are treated with waterproof coatings to prevent water penetration. These coatings protect cargo from rain, snow, and other moisture-related risks.
UV Protection: UV-resistant coatings shield the tarp from the damaging effects of sunlight, preventing fading, degradation, and material weakening.
Mildew Resistance: In humid or damp conditions, mildew can develop on unprotected tarps. Mildew-resistant treatments inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.
Chemical Resistance: For cargo that may be exposed to chemicals during transportation, coil tarps are often made from materials that are chemically resistant to prevent damage.
Correctly choosing materials and construction ensures these tarps maintain their integrity and effectiveness throughout their service life.
Key Features of Coil Tarps
Size and Dimensions
Coil tarps come in various sizes and dimensions to accommodate different types of coiled cargo. The correct sizing is crucial to ensure a proper fit and secure cover, and custom sizes are available to suit specific cargo needs. The tarp should be large enough to cover the entire coiled cargo while allowing for secure attachment to the trailer.
Reinforced Seams
Strong, double-stitched seams prevent tearing and ensure the tarp's longevity. Reinforced hems and seams provide additional strength, reducing the risk of fraying or seam failure.
Grommets, D-rings, and Tie-Downs
Coil tarps are equipped with strategically placed grommets, D-rings, and tie-down points to facilitate secure fastening. Properly securing the tarp ensures that it remains in position during transit.
Webbing and Straps
Coil tarps feature heavy-duty webbing and straps that reinforce the tarp's edges and offer attachment points for securing the tarp to the trailer.
Corner Pockets and Flaps
Corner pockets and flaps are integral features designed to protect the cargo from abrasion and damage. They are positioned where the load is most vulnerable to friction and wear. Corner pockets fit over sharp corners, while flaps cover the edges, reducing the risk of abrasion.
Protecting Coiled Cargo: Understanding and Safeguarding Your Load
Coiled cargo often requires special attention during transportation to prevent damage and ensure safe delivery. Understanding special requirements of coiled cargo is crucial in implementing effective protective measures.
Understanding the Nature of Coiled Cargo
It is essential to understand the type of coiled cargo you’re transporting in order to protect it effectively. Coiled cargo typically includes steel coils, aluminum rolls, wire spools, and other cylindrical items. These materials are often heavy, dense, and may have sharp edges. They are prone to damage, especially from external forces like environmental elements, movement during transit, and improper load securement.
Potential Risks
Weather Exposure: Rain, snow, and exposure to UV radiation can lead to corrosion, rust, and surface degradation.
Movement and Shifting: The cylindrical shape of the cargo makes it prone to rolling or shifting during transit, leading to potential damage or load imbalance.
Abrasion: Sharp edges on coiled cargo can result in friction and surface damage when in contact with the tarp or cargo items.
Keys to Preventing Damage and Shifting
Proper Tarp Selection: Choose coil tarps explicitly designed for coiled cargo. These tarps offer a snug and secure fit tailored to the unique shape and requirements of the load.
Stable Load Securement: Ensure proper cargo securement to the trailer. Utilize appropriate tie-downs, securing devices, and tensioning methods to prevent movement and shifting.
Weather Protection: Choose coil tarps that protect against rain, snow, and UV radiation. These tarps shield the cargo from environmental elements that can cause corrosion and damage.
Corner Pockets and Flaps: Coil tarps with corner pockets and flaps safeguard the cargo's edges, minimizing abrasion during transit.
Balance and Weight Distribution: Maintain proper weight distribution on the trailer to enhance load stability and reduce the risk of cargo shifting during transit, which can pose safety hazards.
A thorough understanding of the unique characteristics and vulnerabilities of coiled cargo allows OTR trucking companies and drivers to implement appropriate protective measures and ensure that valuable materials arrive at their destination in excellent condition.
