If you operate lorries or trucks, tarps are essential for protecting your loads from weather and debris during transport. But with so many types of tarps on the market, how do you choose ones that will get the job done right? In this post, we’ll look at the key factors that make for effective lorry and truck tarps from West-Trans. Read on for tips on selecting tarps that keep your hauls safe and secure trip after trip.
Heavy Duty Materials
First up, you need thick, heavy duty tarp fabrics that can withstand tough road conditions. Look for tarps made from materials like:
- Vinyl coated polyester – Waterproof and abrasion resistant
- Canvas tarps – Durable and breathable
- Mesh tarps – Provide max airflow and visibility
These heavy-duty fabrics are thick enough to resist rips, punctures, mold, mildew, and moisture. Flimsy, light tarps just can’t hold up to the demands of lorry transport.
Reinforced Edges
Check that the tarp contains reinforced edging for extra strength. Features like double-stitched hems, webbing reinforcements, and grommets prevent borders from fraying and tearing under force.
Reinforcements ensure the most vulnerable tarp edges and stress points bear the brunt of wind whipping and friction without failing. Your tarp will last longer.
UV and Mold/Mildew Resistance
Long days on the open road means your truck tarps need UV resistance so the fabric doesn’t degrade in sunlight. Also look for mold and mildew resistance which keeps tarps from getting damaged if they get wet during transport. These protections help your tarps stand up to sun, rain, and grime without weakening so they last season after season.
Tie Down Points
Your tarp needs ample tie down points like straps, loops and grommets so you can properly secure it over your lorry or truck bed. Look for tie downs spaced every 18-24 inches around the edges and through the middle of the tarp. This even spacing prevents billowing and flapping at highway speeds. More tie downs mean more points to snugly fasten the tarp in place regardless of load shape and size.
Size Options
An ideal tarp supplier offers a range of sizes so you can choose tarps customized to your truck beds and trailer lengths.
Having options for partial coverage or full coverage ensures you get an optimally fitted tarp every time. If hauling especially large or oddly-shaped cargo, custom-size tarps can be made to order as well.
Limited Flapping
Truck flapping causes annoying noise and vibration and can strain the tarp fabric over time.
To minimize flapping, select tarps with features like conical corner shock cords and anti-flap wind flaps. These function almost like extra tie-downs to pull and hold the tarp tighter and prevent wind whipping. Less flapping equals smoother transport.
Easy to Handle and Store
Look for truck tarps made from lightweight yet durable materials so they are easy to unfold, spread, and fold up by one person. The tarp fabric itself should be pliable without excessive stiffness that makes handling difficult. Tarps that come with storage bags or compact folding allow tidy stowing away when not in use. Convenience is key.
Conclusion
Following these guidelines when shopping for truck and lorry tarps ensures you get heavy-duty products that stand the test of time and protect your precious cargo. Don’t take chances on flimsy tarps – invest in quality materials upfront so you can haul with total peace of mind trip after trip.
