Agricultural Truck Tarps: Protecting Your Load from Field to Facility

Using a reliable truck or grain trailer tarping system helps keep your agricultural payloads secure, saves time, and streamlines your workflow. Proper tarping also meets local and state load containment regulations. 

In this article, we will explore key features and considerations of agricultural tarp systems to help you select the right one for your needs. 

Common Agricultural Vehicles That Use Tarp Systems

Agricultural payloads are transported in several different vehicles depending on the type of load. Your agricultural tarp system should be selected based on your specific application and hauling frequency. The right automated tarping system ensures load protection, safe loading and unloading, and optimal delivery times.  

Some of the most common vehicles used to transport agricultural loads include:

•    Grain Trailers (Hopper Trailers): Grain trailers are tractor trailers that transport bulk commodities like corn, wheat, and nuts. Their unique shape, increased capacity, and gravity-fed unloading make them an ideal choice for this industry. Tractor trailer tarps commonly used for grain include automated side-to-side lock-down tarp systems.

•    Dump and Silage Trucks: These trucks carry loose materials like silage, forage, or fertilizer. They can efficiently unload materials by tilting the bed to release the load from the rear. These trucks are typically paired with automated flip-style tarp systems that roll front to back, providing quick coverage for bulky loads.

•    Specialty Harvest Wagons or Carts: Commonly used for short-haul transport within or between fields, wagons and carts carry items like fresh produce, hay or feed. They typically require full waterproof coverage to keep loads dry and protected. 

Grain Trailer Tarp Systems: Why Side Lock Down Systems are an Industry Standard

Automated side-to-side agricultural tarp systems are the most common choice for grain hauling due to safety, durability, and ease of use. They provide full coverage to keep loads dry even in harsh and windy weather conditions.

Equipped with remote controls that can be operated from the cab or a safe vantage point, operators can quickly cover or uncover loads. This automation reduces manual labor and improves jobsite safety. This also helps speed up operations during harvest season, allowing for faster turnaround and reduced delays. 

Using a grain trailer tarping system with solid vinyl tarps ensures maximum protection from the elements. Side-to-side grain trailer trap systems are widely used on hopper grain trailers and grain wagons or carts for reliable load protection.

Haulers and fleet managers who need fully sealed coverage typically opt for Roll-Rite’s STS Series with Rite-Lock™ technology. Available in configurations for grain, belly, end, transfer, and side dump trailers, it can fit trailers up to 53 feet. It’s designed for heavy-duty loads, and it comes pre-packaged with selected pre-assembled components for easy installation. 

Key Features to Look for in Agricultural Tarps [H2]

Selecting the right agricultural tarp for your application is essential for superior load protection and faster turnaround times. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind before investing in an agricultural tarp system:

•    Waterproof Material: Solid vinyl tarps protect against moisture, making them ideal for farm payloads that must be kept dry. Loads that don't need complete waterproof coverage may be more suited to woven mesh tarps. 
•    Reliable Construction: Agricultural tarps with heavy-duty stitching and sealed seams are more resistant to tears and abrasions, which is key in these rough operating conditions. Tarp system components, such as durable bows and motors, allow for smooth operations in the harshest conditions.
•    UV Resistance: Look for agricultural tarps with a UV coating. A UV coating protects the tarp material from prolonged exposure to the sun over repeated use, extending the life of the tarp.
•    System Compatibility: Conversion kits allow you to upgrade or customize your tarp setup as your needs change, saving time and improving efficiency. Always look for a reputable manufacturer that provides quality roll tarp parts and a strong warranty. 

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

It's important to regularly maintain your agricultural tarp system to extend its lifespan. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, as well as cleaning it periodically. We suggest routine inspections for tears, punctures, and wear, replacing tarp material promptly if you spot damage. We also suggest that you keep your truck or grain trailer tarp system’s components lubricated to prevent rust and maintain smooth operations. 

If you need replacement tarps, Roll-Rite offers tractor trailer tarps for grain haulers via your authorized distributor.

Secure Your Payloads with Automated Agricultural Tarp Solutions

Investing in high-quality agricultural tarp systems is essential for keeping your agricultural loads protected during transit. These systems minimize the risk of damage and delays, improving operations to ensure timely delivery and increased revenue. Finding the right truck or grain trailer tarp system requires some research to understand your options and select the solution that best matches your hauling application and needs. Our representatives are here to help answer your questions and offer guidance on fitting, measurements, roll tarp parts, and custom tarp solutions for your agricultural payloads. 

Consultations for tarp and safety solutions are available through Roll·Rite's Safe Fleet Service Centers. You may contact our experts directly for quotes, product information, or help finding your authorized distributor.