Learning how to tarp a load is a vital part of any trucker’s skillset. It’s not just about keeping your cargo in place; it’s about protecting your load from damage, staying compliant with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. No matter what you're hauling, it won’t matter how fast you get to your destination if the load arrives damaged.
Securing loads isn’t a one-and-done task. Every step matters, and even small mistakes can lead to costly or even irreparable damage. That’s why tarping is such an important component of the transport process — and why it’s essential to use the right equipment. Verduyn Tarps offers heavy-duty tarps specifically designed to protect your cargo in a quicker, safer, and more efficient way. Unlike standard tarps, our tarps reduce slack and eliminate excess flap to keep loads secure in transit, cut down on wear and tear, and lower fuel costs by reducing drag, which combined delivers measurable savings and longer service life..
If you’re pulling a typical flatbed trailer, these are the steps you need for properly tarping a flatbed load.
Step 1. Ensure the Load Is Secure and Properly Distributed
Before tarping, double-check that your load is securely fastened with chains or straps. An unstable load can shift in transit and damage both your cargo and the tarp. Make sure the weight is evenly distributed across the trailer to prevent any areas that are too tall or wide for the tarp to cover properly.
Also, inspect the load for any sharp edges or debris that could puncture or tear the tarp. Even small holes or hidden damage can lead to serious issues while on the road. Take a moment to inspect both the load and your tarp before covering, as a few extra minutes up front can save you from costly damage later on down the road.
Step 2. Position The Tarp Over The Load
Once your load is secure, it’s time to place the tarp.
Most heavy-duty tarps can weigh up to 100 pounds, so it’s best to seek help or use equipment like a forklift to lift and position the tarp safely, especially when starting out putting the top on the top of the load.
Always use proper lifting techniques, lifting with your legs and not your back, to avoid injury.
Position the tarp evenly over the load to ensure full coverage and protection from the elements. Taking the time to place it correctly at the start will make the rest of the process much easier.
Step 3. Unroll and Spread the Tarp Across the Load
Carefully unroll the tarp over the load, making sure it’s centered and evenly distributed on all sides, much like spreading a bedspread.
The tarp should fully cover all edges and corners to protect the load and prevent instability during transit.
Uneven coverage can lead to shifting, wind damage, or even tearing while on the road, so take a moment to double-check that everything is properly aligned before moving on.
Step 4: Secure the Tarp with Straps or Tie-downs
Once the tarp is in place, use tie-downs and ratchet straps to secure it tightly around the load.
Start by fastening each corner, then work along the edges to ensure full coverage and prevent any loose areas that could catch wind while driving. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this can stress the material and lead to tearing.
Before hitting the road, double-check that every fastener is secure and that no sharp edges are pressing against the tarp; again, a quick inspection now can help avoid problems in transit.
Step 5. Maintain Proper Tension And Check For Any Loose Areas
A quick tip: Stopping every once in a while to check for tension and flapping, especially at the beginning of transit, is also a best practice.
Safety Measures to Remember
Incorporate safety measures when tarping your load. Protect yourself from rough edges and sharp objects by wearing boots and gloves. When tarping, watch for strong winds, as they can make tarping challenging. Avoid tarping on busy highways as much as possible, but if it is inevitable, always consider exercising caution. Following proper lifting techniques is also necessary to prevent injury due to handling heavy tarps.
Mistakes To Avoid
- Not inspecting the tarp for loose corners before hitting the road
- Using damaged tarps
- Over-tightening
- Not stopping occasionally to check the tarp tension
- Using low-quality tarps
- Not wearing safety gloves and boots when tarping
A Better Alternative
Traditional flatbed tarping can be physically demanding and time-consuming. It often requires lifting heavy tarps and climbing onto the load, a process that increases the risk of injury and slows down operations.
We offer a smarter and safer solution.
Our retractable tarp systems allow drivers to tarp and re-tarp loads from the ground, eliminating the need to climb on the trailer deck. Mounted on rails, the system glides open and closed with minimal effort; no heavy lifting, no time wasted.
Verduyn Tarps systems are compatible with most trailer types, including:
- Custom trailer tarps: The versatility of the Verduyn Tarps’ system means that it can be used on virtually any type of custom trailer. Some examples are tilt n` lift, straight trucks, open top and dump system tarps.
- Flatbed trailer tarps: Our tarp systems offer an aerodynamic and time-saving solution for flatbed trailers, especially when hauling cargos with unusual dimensions.
- Step Deck trailer tarps: The unique nature of our tarping systems make them ideal for step deck trailers.
Tarping tall freight is dangerous and oftentimes requires a ladder.
With our Eagle Tarp System for Drop Deck Trailers, you can cover a tall freight without the dangers of falling, keeping you safe, on the ground, and back on the road.
- Double drop trailer tarps: Difficult-to-load cargo that necessitates a double drop trailer is much simpler to tarp with a custom tarp system from Verduyn Tarps.
Tarping a flatbed load manually takes a lot of time and effort. However, with a custom tarp system from Verduyn Tarps, the job can be done much easier and faster. Contact us today to learn more about how our tarp systems can help you.
