Flatbed Trucking: The Importance of Proper Tarping

Why Tarping Matters in Flatbed Trucking

Flatbed trucking is an essential mode of transportation for hauling oversized, heavy, and oddly-shaped freight. Properly tarping the cargo is crucial as it secures the load and protects it from weather and road debris. Understanding effective tarping techniques saves time, prevents cargo damage, and ensures safety on the road.

Types of Flatbed Truck Tarps and Their Uses

Common Sizes of Flatbed Truck Tarps

The industry standard flatbed truck tarps commonly come in sizes of 4′, 6′, and 8′.

• 4-foot tarp: Ideal for shorter loads such as steel coils or machinery parts.
• 6-foot tarp: Versatile, suitable for mid-sized freight like lumber stacks or construction materials.
• 8-foot tarp: Used for taller loads, providing complete protection for building supplies, large machinery, or racking.

All sizes offer critical protection from environmental elements.

How to Properly Tarp a Flatbed Truck

Preparing Your Cargo Before Tarping

A tarped flatbed correctly demands skill, precision, and time. Drivers must first ensure the load is adequately secured with straps or chains. Once stabilized, the tarp should be evenly draped to minimize wind resistance, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce tarp damage. Many shipping and receiving locations provide tarping stations for safety and convenience.

Correct Tarping Techniques

Securing the tarped flatbed tightly by using bungee cords, rubber straps, or ropes, ensuring it stays in place but remains flexible enough for slight movement without tearing. Regular checks during transit are vital to maintaining safety and security.

Specialty Tarp: Smoke Tarps

Smoke tarps are smaller, specialty tarps used to protect specific cargo types vulnerable to exhaust smoke damage. Positioned at the front of the load, smoke tarps shield sensitive freight, such as PVC pipes, metal coils, or painted materials, from soot and dirt.

Choosing the Right Tarp for Your Load

Assessing Cargo Needs

Regular tarps cover the entire load, offering robust protection against weather conditions like rain, snow, and debris. Smoke tarps, however, focus on shielding cargo from exhaust smoke and contaminants.

When to Use Regular Tarps vs. Smoke Tarps

Understanding the specific requirements of your cargo determines tarp selection. Full tarping is ideal for total coverage against environmental elements, whereas smoke tarps are critical for exhaust-sensitive items.

Headwall Logistics: Your Flatbed Trucking Experts

At Headwall Logistics, we guide and provide expert assistance on equipment selection and tarping requirements tailored to your cargo. Our knowledge ensures the safety and integrity of your shipment.

Contact Headwall Logistics for a custom quote:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 719-789-1370