Heavy Tarps VS Light Weight Tarps for Trucking

At Hightail Hotshot, the choice between heavy tarps and lightweight tarps for trucking depends on several factors. These include the type of cargo you're transporting, weather conditions, and the level of protection required. Here are some considerations to help you decide which type of tarp to use:

HEAVY TARPS

• Durability: Heavy tarps are designed to withstand more rugged conditions, making them suitable for protecting cargo against rough weather, road debris, and potential damage, especially along the Pacific Coast.
• Protection: If you're hauling valuable or sensitive cargo, heavy tarps can provide better protection against elements like rain, wind, and UV rays.
• Longevity: Heavy tarps are generally more durable and have a longer lifespan compared to lightweight tarps, making them a good investment if you frequently transport cargo.
• Secure Coverage: Heavy tarps are less likely to flap in the wind, ensuring better coverage and reduced chances of tearing or detachment during transit.

LIGHTWEIGHT TARPS

• Fuel Efficiency: Lightweight tarps contribute to better fuel efficiency due to their reduced weight, which can be advantageous for long-haul journeys and reducing overall operational costs.
• Ease of Handling: Lightweight tarps are easier to handle during loading and unloading, as well as during the tarping process itself. This can save time and effort.
• Less Bulk: Lighter tarps are typically less bulky when folded, which can be beneficial for storage and space utilization when not in use.
• Shorter Distances: If you're transporting cargo over shorter distances or in relatively mild weather conditions, lightweight tarps might provide sufficient protection.

CONSIDERATIONS

• Cargo Type: Consider the type of cargo you're transporting. If it's prone to damage from exposure or requires stringent protection, heavy tarps might be a better choice.
• Weather Conditions: If you frequently encounter adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or high winds, heavy tarps can provide better shielding.
• Frequency of Use: If you use tarps frequently, investing in heavy tarps might be cost-effective due to their durability and longevity.
• Cost: Heavy tarps are often more expensive upfront due to their durability, whereas lightweight tarps tend to be more budget friendly.

Ultimately, the choice between heavy and lightweight tarps depends on your specific needs and priorities. Many trucking professionals often carry a mix of both types to cater to various cargo types and weather conditions. It's important to strike a balance between protection, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness based on your unique hauling requirements.

At Hightail Hotshot we have both types of tarps, but our go to is the lightweight, somewhat “disposable” tarps. Our reasonings are:

1. Speed of Deployment.
2. Space Savings on smaller hot shot rigs.
3. The fact that we also have enclosed trailers if it really needs to stay clean and dry.

For more helpful tips from Hightail Hotshot, please reach out to Erik today at erik@hightailhotshot.com, or call him at 604-728-3037.

Strategically located with our office in South Surrey, British Columbia, with a yard in Delta, BC, this gives us both quick access to the US border and beyond. It also puts us within 30 minutes to the Greater Vancouver industrial logistics hubs, like Tilbury, Annacis Island, and Campbell Heights. We’re also within 30-40 minutes transit to shippers in Richmond, and of course Cargo Airlines at Vancouver Airport (YVR). When your order has to get there on time and on budget.