What Tarp System Is Best For My Application?



Roll Tarp on Roll-Off Can

Selecting the proper "Tarping System" for your Dump Truck, Dump Trailer or Roll-Off Can tarping application is an important decision.  You desire the best load containment but also want ease of operation at an affordable price.  So how do you decide?  Here are a few questions that a Tarpologist, such as myself will use to help you determine the best Covering System for your needs.

Flip Tarp or Arm Tarp on Dump Truck





1. What type of truck, trailer or container are you trying to cover?

2. Do you require some amount of waterproofing?

3. What do you haul?

4. How often do you load/unload?

5. Dimensions of the truck, trailer or container

     a.  Overall Length

     b.  Outside to Outside Width

     c.  Inside to Inside Width

     e.  Outside to Outside Width (cab shield if applicable)

     f.  Inside to Inside Width (cab shield if applicable)

     g.  Note: other dimensions may be needed



With these questions answered, determining which system will best suit your tarping needs will be a much easier task. 



HY-Tower on Roll-Off Truck



Generally speaking your tarp system needs will fall into one of four common Tarp System design categories (1) Flip Tarp or Arm Tarps, (2) Cable Tarp or Accordion Tarps, (3) Pull Tarps and (4) Roll-Tarps.  Once a Tarp System "style" is selected you can then determine the type of Tarp (the material) you may want to use (please see my blog on Tarp Materials).  Finally you will need to decide if the system will be Manual, Electric, Hydraulic or Semi-Automatic.  At this point you should have narrowed down your selection to one or two tarp systems and although a few more questions may need to be answered...especially how much to ultimately spend...you should be well on your way to having a great tarp system that fits your exact tarping needs!  Feel free to give me a call at 757-615-4379 for assistance in making your tarp system purchase an easy and affordable experience.