Manual Tarp Systems for Dump Trucks 101

Why do I need manual tarp systems for my dump truck? Which option is best for me and my needs?

When new to the trucking industry, the number of rules and regulations can be quite overwhelming. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that dump trucks, which often carry loose material, be covered preventing any damage or hazards to the surrounding vehicles on the road. In order to properly cover your dump truck load, you will need a tarp and a tarp system to go along with it. If you want to cover your load safely with a tarp, a tarps system is essential. There are two components to every tarp system: the wind-up system and the arm system. Wind-up systems can be broken down even further into manual and electric systems, and with arm systems, you have the option of steel and aluminum. Today, we will specifically be discussing manual tarp systems for dump trucks.

Here at Harp’s Tarps, we provide a variety of options for manual tarp systems for dump trucks to fit your needs. Some options are better than others depending on your situation. Hopefully after reading this article, you will gain a better understanding of which options best suit you.

GHS 1200

• Most basic manual system
• Best for landscape trailers and small dump trucks

This system is the most basic and simple manual tarp system for dump trucks we offer. The GHS 1200 is best suited for smaller landscape trailers and dump trucks. The aluminum telescopic bar adjusts from 60 inches to 104 inches. If you have a bigger vehicle that requires frequent loading and unloading, consider upgrading to some of our other options that I will mention later on! One benefit of the GHS 1200 is that the handle can be pulled down and pivoted out of the way so that it lays more compact and closer to the body of the truck. Because this system is sprocket-free, it isn’t meant to be used with arm systems that are spring-loaded, which can cause the handle to free will. So if a sprocket is important to lock your handle into place, take a look at some of our other options!

GHS 1500

• A step up from the GHS 1200
• Recommended for trucks that don’t get all-day or everyday use

This system is an upgrade from the GHS 1200 as far as manual tarps systems for dump trucks go. The GHS 1500 is a budget system for dump trucks. We recommend this option for those who only use their system 4 to 5 times a week (such as in a farm setting). It also has an aluminum telescopic bar that adjusts to 60-104 inches like the GHS 1200. For this system, the driver will have to step up and extend his or her arm to use the system’s handle. Luckily, the GHS 1500 has a sprocket and dog to lock the handle into place, making it a safer option for you and your drivers. 

GHS 1600

 

 

• For dump trucks or trailers up to 20 feet long
• The safest option for drivers

This system is a great option for most dump trucks and trailers. It has an adjustable aluminum telescopic roller bar, and it is an easy-to-use manual tarp system for dump trucks or trailers up to 20 feet long. This is an excellent option due to its innovative safety features. Its 16-foot roller chain and hand crank make it the safest alternative because the driver can access it from the ground instead of climbing up to wind it.

GHS 1700

 

• For those who want a window shade system

We recommend the GHS 1700 to those who like window shade systems. A spring-loaded roller bar is used by the driver to retract the tarp and manually extend it. This is not used with an arm system. Suitable for dump trucks 108 inches x 12 inches x 10 inches in size.

I hope this clarified which manual tarp systems for dump trucks would meet your needs best! We make quality and safety a priority here at Harp’s Tarps. If you have any questions, make sure to contact us.