How to avoid strains and falls while pulling tarp off a load:

• Get a firm grip on the tarp and not just the ropes, which can slip.
• Spread feet for balance.
• Loosen the tarp by lifting and lowering it to move air underneath.
• Use arms, legs and body weight to pull tarp.
• Face the tarp to watch its movement.

Reduce arm and shoulder strain when folding tarps:

• Teamwork is critical--ask for help.
• Lay the tarp out on a flat area and check for holes or tripping hazards.
• work as a team, moving toward the middle as you fold.
• avoid lifting more than nesscessary.

*Tarp handling can be done easily and safely when workers use proper techniques.

How critical is fabric weight?
Weight is not as critical in an automatic system as it is for a manual system. Manual systems use lighter fabric because they must be rolled and unrolled by hand. Automatic systems can use heavier tarps because they don't rely on elbow grease. Although tarps can be heavier, they must be more durable as well. Automatic systems stretch tarps much tighter than manual systems so a fabric that can handle higher tensions is necessary. (Review February 2000) Click here to see various types of truck tarp systems.

What is the difference between a truck cover and a tarpaulin?
Truck covers are designed to fit a specific truck or a specific load. They are custom made and they are specifically used for transportation applications. Tarpaulins are generally recognized as commodity, although there are custom-made exceptions, and used on trucks or trailers.

What fabric is best for the job?

• You first need to answer some questions.
• What is being covered? Find out what material the truck is going to haul.
• What specifications should the fabric meet? Find out what is required before you commit to the job and verify that the fabric meets the requirements.
• How long does the fabric have to last? Different types of fabric will last varying amounts of time, depending on UV exposure, weather, humidify, and use and handling.
• Will the cover be moving or stationary?
• How much does the customer want to spend? Cost is only one factor in the value equation.

While tarp fabric selection is more complicated these days, the wide variety of materials does offer some advantages to both fabricator and customer. Though there's not one best fabric anymore, there is enough variation in style, performance and price to appeal to any segment of the market you want to target, from the quality-conscious to the economy-minded.