There are several types of tarpaulin (tarp) systems for trucks that make covering a truck’s cargo easy. The most popular tarp systems are front to back or side-to-side systems. All of these systems secure cargo in the bed of the truck easily and safely.

Front-to-back tarp systems feature long metal arms that hold the tarp in place. Some tarp systems have the tarp roll up into a cylinder behind the cab when it is not covering the bed, while other systems position the rolled-up tarp up over the truck’s cab. Front-to-back systems can be either manual or automatic. Automatic tarp systems have a switch in the cab that the operator flips to maneuver the tarp into place. The tarp is then pulled over the bed and secured at the rear by the metal arms. Manual systems are similar, but feature a crank that the operator turns to move the arms and the tarp into place. Automatic front to back systems cost at least $650 plus the cost of the tarp. Manual systems are significantly less expensive, starting around $150 plus the price of the tarp.

Side-to-side tarp systems are not as widely used as front-to-back systems, but they are just as secure. Side-to-side tarp systems operate on the same principles as the front-to-back systems, with metal arms pulling and then securing the tarp in place. Side-to-side systems also come in manual and automatic models, just as with the front-to-back models. Interested consumers should contact a local seller or an online vendor to find out what a custom side-to-side tarp system will cost for their truck.

Tarp systems make it much quicker and easier to secure loads in the beds of trucks. Whether one uses an automatic or manual system, tarp systems are a good investment.