The covering for the beds of dump trucks commonly known as tarps or tarpaulins are a genuine necessity for dump truck hauling safety especially when loaded with material such as gravel, small rocks, asphalt and other and other similar material. Who hasn’t been behind one of these vehicles hauling such substances and found themselves with a rock chip in the windshield! So cover is really needed to prevent such cargo from falling or blowing out and causing this legitimate hazard to fellow motorists.

Putting tarps on large commercial vehicles has been going on for years and there are wide varieties of these systems available. They come in different types, styles and sizes to suit each particular need. These tarps can be operated manually, semi-automatically and full-automatically when attached to the dump bed. In order to have maximum protection, they should not be installed either too tight (this will stretch the covering) or too loose (this will cause wind whipping and lead to tears).

Manual, Semi-Automatic or Full Automatic Systems

One of the most common tarpaulin systems is the front-to-back version that features a long arm-like piece of metal that holds the cover in place. It comes in both manual and automatic arrangements for installation on the bed of the truck. The automatic system has its own motor-powered equipment and the vehicle operator only needs to flip a switch inside the cab to have the metal arms maneuver the tarpaulin to secure it at the rear.

The manual system has a similar mechanism but uses a hand-operated crank to manually pull the tarp over the load in the truck bed and then manually use a rope guide to secure the covering to the rear of the truck bed.

The semi–automatic system is somewhat like a combination of the two other versions. The tarp is manually drawn over the load and secured. When released, the covering rolls back into its compartment via spring-loaded action. This is considered the easiest system to use since it can be maneuvered by an operator outside the truck. It is also the most economical version for what is accomplished.

Proper Selection of Style

A manual tarp works best for dump trucks with 22 feet or less of dump bed or trailer width; any width greater than that should use the automatic arm configuration. Automatic systems can be very helpful especially with peak loads where a manual system would be cumbersome. The automatic version has the capacity to lift the tarp up and safely cover the payload.

Usage Benefits

The ultimate objection of hauling material in a dump truck is to deliver every payload to its destination completely and safely. Listed below are some additional reasons to invest in this movable tarpaulin for dump trucks.

• Protect the material from falling or blowing out.

• Prevent the freight from damaging UV rays.

• Protect the cargo from weather calamities.

• Ensure complete delivery of the contents to its destination.

• Avoid payment of penalties for creating road hazards.

• Relieve operator of concern for the cargo while driving on the roads and highways.

Dump truck safety is not just a hazard concern; it allows the cargo hauler to maximize investment value for the transportation of such material. Any system chosen will cover the dump truck bed and the owner’s business. Look at all the available makes and models – and choose the best tarp on the market to cover any load concerns!