Proper Application of Tarp Straps

Ensuring Safety While Using Tarp Straps

Tarp straps are heavy-duty EPDM straps used by the trucking industry to secure tarps in place over truckloads, protecting cargo and goods from the elements. Tarp straps can keep tarps from slipping, flapping, or otherwise exposing loads to debris, precipitation, and other environmental factors that may cause damage. When used properly, trailer tarp tie-downs play a meaningful role in keeping goods and products sheltered from the elements while in transit.

Proper Usage & Application of Tarp Straps

Ensuring safety and optimal performance of tarp straps starts with understanding how to choose the right one and how to tie down a tarp with straps. Trailer tarp tie-downs are excellent tools for their intended use: securing tarps over loads that have already been secured by other means. They are not meant to be used outside of their scope.

Limitations of Tarp Straps

Rubber trailer straps are not multi-use tools. They are not load-bearing and should never be used to lift heavy loads. Additionally, trailer tarp tie-downs do not stretch indefinitely and are not a “one size fits all” product. Choosing the right length of trailer tarp tie-down is very important.

Wear Safety Gear

Trailer tarp tie-downs are under constant tension while in use and must be stretched during application. If someone loses their grip on a tarp strap or a hook is misplaced, the strap can snap back very quickly. Wearing the appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, helmets, and gloves, can protect workers from possible injury when securing a tarp.

Properly Secure Your Tarp Straps

Tarp straps are secured using incredibly strong S-hooks that will not bend or deform in service. However, the hooks must be properly secured to perform as designed. If the hook is not quite fully hooked through the intended hole or wedged against another surface, it can be jostled or bumped out of place. It is critical to double-check that hooks are fully secured and have been placed properly.

Inspect After Every Use

There’s no way to predict when tarp strap damage may occur. A particularly arduous truck journey, a gravel road, hail—any of these variables can inflict damage. Even the smallest tears, cuts, and cracks can develop into larger issues over time if they go undetected. For this reason, rubber trailer straps should be carefully inspected for damage before and after every use, to ensure that they are removed from service before they run the risk of failing in the field.

How to Tie Down a Trailer Tarp: A Step-by-Step Guide

Optimal function of a tarp strap begins with proper installation. Below is a brief guide on how to properly tie down a tarp with rubber trailer straps. Please note: Trailer tarp tie-downs are not designed to secure loads. The role of a rubber trailer strap is to secure the tarp itself. Before beginning the process below, the load should be fully secured.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tarp Strap

As previously mentioned, trailer tarp tie-downs are not one-size-fits-all. Tarp straps come in different lengths and maximum stretch lengths, so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Step 2: Position the Tarp

The tarp itself must be placed before straps can be applied. The tarp should extend to the edges of the load or object to ensure complete coverage and protection against debris and potential damage.

Step 3: Properly Attach The Tarp to the Trailer

When planning how to tie down a tarp, strap placement is key. Some experts recommend using one strap for every four to five feet of tarp, but you may vary your strategy based on the size and shape of the load and the location of secure anchor points. Once you’ve determined where to place your straps, you can begin attaching them. Secure one end of your strap, stretch it across the tarp, and secure the other end, ensuring consistent stretch.

Step 4: Check for Proper Tension & Make Adjustments

Once all straps have been attached, go back and inspect each one. Each strap should be consistently tight, with ends properly secured, and no loose or slack sections that could be pulled loose by wind. Tarp straps can always be adjusted to ensure that the strap won’t slip off and begin flapping while in transit.

Step 5: Final Check

Once straps have been adjusted, a final check is always recommended. A quick visual inspection ensures that the entire load is secure and ready for travel.