What To Look For In A Rolling Tarp Cover System?

A rolling tarp cover system is just one of the many options available for keeping loose loads safely secured. But choosing a good system for your trailer isn't as simple as picking the right size. There are plenty of other considerations that should be kept in mind when purchasing a new tarping system for your trailer.

Consider the Tarp Quality and Materials

If you're looking for any sort of longevity from your rolling tarp cover system, then it's important to consider the construction quality of the tarping system, as well as the quality of the tarp itself. All tarping systems may look the same when brand-new, but several months of hard use can reveal stark differences in quality among the most popular brands.

The tarp itself be made of high-quality material with a suitable material thickness that can withstand contact with sharp or irregular objects. Pay close attention to the rail locations and the top corners of the tarping system. At these junctures, the tarp should be well-reinforced with plenty of material for added durability and longevity.

The door area is also an important place to look when it comes to assessing a rolling tarp cover system. Systems that rely on Velcro closures should be avoided, as the material can come loose with time and heavy use. Mechanical closures are more expensive than their Velcro counterparts, but they're longer lasting and less costly to maintain in the long run.

Consider the Load Volume

Hauling certain loads requires that you use every single foot of space available. Unfortunately, this could prove an impediment when it comes to certain types of tarping systems. When choosing your rolling tarp cover system, make sure the overall design does not cause the framework to intrude into the load area.

Irregularly shaped cargo can have the potential to damage your tarp. If you regularly haul this type of cargo, then you may want to consider a rolling tarp system that utilizes an arm when applied over the trailer. This feature prevents the tarp from being damaged by the cargo simply by keeping the tarp out of harm's way.

Consider the Amount of Maintenance Needed

When choosing your rolling tarp cover system, you should also consider the amount of maintenance your typing system will need throughout its life. It's best to choose systems that offer relatively low maintenance, and do away with complicated mechanisms that could cause problems later on.

Although there are many tarping systems that are touted as "maintenance-free," all tarping systems can benefit from a little TLC on occasion. For instance, it's usually a good idea to give the rails a good wiping down after each load. Even so-called "grease-free" wheels and ratchets can benefit from the occasional lubrication.

Consider the Warranty and Support

When you're out on the road, you'll need to know how easily your rolling tarp cover system can be repaired in case of unexpected damage or failure. Some tarping systems can be easily repaired at any trailer shop, while others must be returned to the manufacturing facility. You'll also want to know where the warranty is supported, as many tarping system warranties require a return to the factory in order to be properly honored.

It's best to choose the tarping system that offers the least amount of downtime when it comes to repairs. You should also ask other users of similar typing systems about their experiences and whether they'd recommend the product.

For flatbed trailer owners, a rolling tarp system offers more flexibility in terms of load types that can be hauled. For this reason, it's important to consider the above as you choose one that best fits your needs. For more information, contact a company like Glider Systems Inc.


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