You see them on highways everywhere – long haul trucks with tarps stretched over the trailer bed, strapped tightly down. But why go through the effort of tarping? As it turns out, these systems aren’t just for show. Read on to learn all about truck tarping systems by West-Trans and why proper covering is so important for both truckers and the loads they carry.

Protecting from Weather Damage

The number one job of any truck tarp is to form a barrier against rain, snow, wind, and other elements that could damage cargo. Uncovered loads face substantial risks:

• Rain can cause corrosion, mold, and moisture damage. Electronics, metals and lumber are especially vulnerable.
• Snow and ice lead to freezing and thawing that ruins cargo.
• Wind whips unsecured lightweight loads around, damaging goods.
• Sun exposure can fade fabrics, warp plastics, and overheat cargo.
• Debris flying up from the road damages anything unprotected.

A securely fastened tarp deflects rain, blocks UV rays, and prevents snow, dirt and road debris from impacting the load. Bad weather is no match for a heavy duty trucking cover.

Cargo Security

A covered load is a secure load. Tarps prevent cargo from shifting during transport and falling onto roadways, which is extremely dangerous. Strapped down tarps keep goods tightly packed together. Key benefits:

• Minimizes risky product movement and collisions during sharp turns.
• Stops light, blowable cargo from blowing away.
• Deters thieves looking for easy targets.

For truckers, safely reaching the destination with cargo intact is top priority. Proper tarping guarantees their precious freight arrives without incident.

Compliance with Transportation Laws

Commercial trucking falls under transportation laws that require specific load coverings for safety. For example:

• Gravity loads like gravel must be covered to avoid loose rocks spilling.
• Dusty loads like grain need containment so particles don’t enter the air.
• Loads extending beyond 4 feet of the trailer bed must have a tarp for visibility.

Fines for uncovered loads run hundreds of dollars per incident. Truck tarping systems allow compliance with transportation regulations.

Versatility for All Kinds of Loads

From steel beams, to cars, to paper rolls, to bananas – you name it, truck tarps can cover it. Tarping systems secure all types of cargo:

• Lumber tarps feature flaps to insert over lumber stacks.
• Coil tarps protect heavy metal coils with an enclosed design.
• Machine tarps completely encapsulate long equipment like pipes.
• Flatbed tarps are made for open flatbed trailers and oversized loads.

No matter what a trucker needs to transport, there’s a tailored tarp solution available.

Efficient Cargo Control

Manually tying down tarps and bungee cords takes forever. Luckily, today’s tarping systems drastically speed up the covering process.

• Mechanical rollers rapidly unfurl and roll up tarps for quick cover.
• Motorized systems fully automate tarp unrolling at the push of a button.
• Ratchet winches quickly stretch and securely tighten tarps into place.

With minimal effort, truckers can achieve full cargo protection and comply with transportation laws more easily than ever.

Factors in Choosing Truck Tarps

With an array of options, truckers must consider:

• Tarp material like vinyl, polyester, or canvas based on use case and durability needs.
• Tarp size and dimensions to fully cover various trailer lengths and cargo sizes.
• Automation features from basic to fully motorized based on convenience needs and budget.
• Frame material like aluminum or steel depending on weight restrictions.
• Specialty features like weather flaps for windy conditions.

With the right tarp choice, truckers can haul all kinds of cargo smoothly and safely.

Conclusion

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