A tarp drop refers to the vertical measurement of a load on a flatbed trailer that determines how far a tarp must extend down the sides to provide full coverage. It is an important factor in selecting the right tarp size to protect cargo during transport. For example, a 6-foot-high and 8-foot-wide load requires a 6-foot drop on each side. To fully cover it, the tarp width must include both sides: 8 feet (load width) + 6 feet + 6 feet = 20 feet total width. Drop tarps are available in different sizes, typically 20 to 24 feet long, with drop options like 4, 6, and 8 feet to fit various load heights. They also include side flaps that match the drop length for proper coverage and protection.
How Trap Drop Works
A Trap Drop is calculated by measuring the height of the load from the trailer bed to the top. This measurement defines the length of the tarp’s side flaps needed to fully cover the cargo.
- Accurate Coverage: Ensures the tarp fully encloses the load
- Side Protection: Prevents exposure to weather and debris
- Secure Fit: Keeps the tarp properly aligned during transport
- Load Stability: Helps maintain protection throughout transit
Tarp Requirements for Flatbed Loads
The number of tarps required to cover a load depends on the trailer length and the size of the cargo. For example, a 53-foot flatbed trailer may require one or two tarps to ensure full coverage, while shorter trailers typically need fewer tarps. The type of load also affects tarp selection, steel loads are usually shorter and often use 4-foot drop tarps, whereas lumber loads are taller and commonly require 8-foot drop tarps.
Applications
- Flatbed trucking operations
- Transportation of steel, lumber, and industrial goods
- Freight and logistics management
- Outdoor cargo protection during transit
Benefits
- Improved Protection: Shields cargo from weather and damage
- Efficient Tarping: Reduces time needed to secure loads
- Better Fit: Ensures proper tarp sizing and placement
- Enhanced Safety: Minimizes risks during loading and transport
Safety and Considerations
- Avoid incorrect measurements that lead to poor coverage
- Ensure tarps are securely fastened
- Use appropriate tarp sizes for different cargo types
- Reduce the need for climbing by using safe tarping systems
Correct planning of Trap Drop improves both safety and efficiency in trucking operations.
A Trap Drop is the height of a load that determines how far a tarp must extend to cover it completely.
It ensures proper tarp sizing and protects cargo during transportation.
It is measured from the trailer bed to the top of the load.
It is used in flatbed trucking and cargo transportation to determine tarp size.
