In addition to the inherent qualities of the tarp material, several other elements and features are essential to consider when selecting a truck tarp.
Critical Features
Size
The tarp should be large enough to cover the entire load but not so large that it is difficult to handle and secure. In challenging situations, customized tarps are affordable and efficient to use.
Shape
The tarp should be the right shape for the load. For example, a flatbed tarp is a good choice for a flatbed truck, while a coil tarp is a good choice for transporting steel coils and similar loads that require a specialized fit.
Grommets and tie-downs
The tarp should include grommets or D-rings and tie-downs to make it easy to secure to the truck.
Water resistance
The tarp should be water-resistant or waterproof to protect the load from rain, snow, and other liquids.
UV resistance
The tarp should be UV resistant to protect the load from the sun’s harmful rays and provide a long service life.
Tear resistance
The tarp should be tear-resistant to prevent it from being damaged by sharp objects or rough surfaces.
Breathability
Some materials, such as canvas, are more breathable than others. This quality can be important for cargo that needs to be ventilated.
Cost
Truck tarps can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds, depending on the material, size, and features. It’s essential to seek a balance between your budget and the needs of your typical cargo. An initial higher investment often proves to be more cost-effective over the life of the tarp.
Specific Needs by Cargo Type
When choosing a truck tarp, it is important to consider the type of cargo that will be transported and the application. For example, if you are transporting food or pharmaceuticals, you will need a water-resistant and UV-resistant tarp. If you are hauling lumber or steel, you will need a tear-resistant tarp.
Food and pharmaceuticals
Delicate products like food and pharmaceuticals require a careful balancing act to retain their quality and safety throughout the journey.
Temperature Control:
Unstable temperatures during shipping can cause food to spoil or medication to lose potency. To prevent serious problems like these, insulated tarps and covers come to the rescue. These specialized covers protect against temperature fluctuations, offering a protected environment to keep products within the desired temperature range.
Shielding from Contaminants:
Food and pharmaceuticals must be shielded from contaminants like dust, dirt, and pollutants to protect their quality and efficacy. Airtight, waterproof tarps and covers provide a secure barrier against external elements. Durable, heavy-duty, and waterproof materials like vinyl or reinforced polyethylene (RPE) make ideal tarps for this situation.
Hygiene and Sanitation:
Food and pharmaceutical shipments must be protected from potential contamination during transit to maintain hygiene and sanitation. Tarps and covers made from easy-to-clean and sanitize materials, such as vinyl, can help meet these requirements. Ensuring that the materials used are moisture-resistant and can be cleaned effectively is essential.
UV Protection:
Some pharmaceuticals and certain types of food products are particularly sensitive to sunlight. UV-resistant tarps and covers, made from vinyl or UV-treated polyethylene, protect cargo from harmful UV rays during transportation.
Pest Control:
The fight against contamination extends to pests, too. Opt for tarps with secure closures and minimal seams to keep cargo safe. Think roll-up or roll-over tarps, which act as the frontline defense against critters with an appetite for cargo.
Sealing and Fastening:
The integrity of the cargo depends on a secure seal. That’s where dependable tarps with robust fastening mechanisms, like ratchet straps and buckles, come into play. They ensure an airtight seal, preventing any compromising breaches.
Compliance with Regulations:
Navigating the maze of shipping regulations across state and national borders can be a challenge. Different regions have their own rules and expectations for food and pharmaceutical transport. Choosing high-quality tarps and covers that align with these regulations is imperative to stay on the right side of the law.
Lumber and steel
Tarps designed for lumber and steel shipments have specific requirements to ensure the safe and secure transportation of these heavy and potentially sharp-edged materials. The use of appropriate tarps helps protect the cargo, prevent damage, and ensure the safety of the drivers and other road users.
Material Strength:
Tarps for lumber and steel must be made from strong and durable materials. Heavy-duty fabrics, such as reinforced polyethylene, vinyl, or heavy canvas, are commonly used to withstand the weight and sharp edges of the cargo.
Reinforced Corners and Seams:
Steel and lumber tarps often have reinforced corners and seams to prevent tearing and provide extra strength in areas where stress is concentrated.
UV Resistance:
UV-resistant materials or coatings are necessary to protect these tarps from the damaging effects of sunlight since even mild degradation can lead to critical weaknesses.
Securing Mechanisms:
To maintain a tight and secure fit, tarps for these heavy loads should have rugged securing mechanisms, such as heavy-duty ratchet straps, bungee cords, or elastic tie-downs.
Lumber Tarp Flaps:
Lumber tarps, in particular, may have additional flaps extending over the cargo’s sides to protect it from exposure.
Easy Access:
Steel tarps often have flaps on the sides for easy access to the load while maintaining coverage on top.
Regulatory Compliance:
Tarps used in transporting steel and lumber must comply with relevant transportation regulations, which may include load securement rules. Check that the tarp meets these standards.
