Employing simple practices for roll-tarp systems can add longer life to equipment and more time on the road.
By Landon Dykstra
Roll-off tarp systems are more than just an accessory; they are critical to safety, compliance, and operational efficiency on every job. From containing loads and reducing material loss to minimizing downtime and extending equipment life, proper tarp system operation and maintenance play a direct role in the success of your operation.
As a leader in tarp system innovation, we are committed not only to delivering reliable solutions, but also to helping our customers get the most out of their equipment. Below are best practices for roll-off tarp systems. Providing practical, real-world guidance that improves performance, enhances safety, and reduces costly disruptions.
These recommendations are based on field experience and common challenges seen across the industry. We recommend that you follow your specific tarp manufacturer’s instructions.
Daily Maintenance and Preventative Procedures
1.Grease any moving, steel components regularly. It should be weekly, if in constant or heavy use. This includes but is not limited to:
• Steel gantry framework that extends or retracts
• Steel arm framework that extends or retracts
• Steel pivot pins that have a grease zerk
2. On applicable tarp systems, check hydraulic hoses and fittings for cracking or leaks.
3. Inspect arm springs for breaks, deformation, or loss of tension and verify proper attachment and alignment.
4. Check all electrical components and connections.
5. Replace or repair any damaged or worn parts. Failure to do so often results in unplanned downtime and could lead to more damage if the part fails.
6. Replace torn or damaged tarps.
• Damaged tarps often do not properly contain the load being hauled.
• Damaged tarps can affect the operation of the tarp system, causing the arms to pivot out of sync and the tarp to roll up out of square.
• In some cases, it can cause the tarp to bind in the housing and will prevent the tarp from being able to completely wind up.
Typical Operation for Pickup and Drop-Off for Containers
Loading Container
1. Once the demountable container is loaded on the truck and secured, deploy the tarp about 25 percent of the way.
2. If applicable, adjust the gantry frame until it is fully extended.
3. Deploy the tarp until the tarp arms hover just above the container gate.
4. If applicable, adjust the arm length to accommodate the loaded container.
5. Deploy the tarp until the tarp arm bumpers contact the container. It is not recommended to hang the arms behind the containers.
6. If arms hang behind the container, it is strongly recommended to secure the arms with bungees or straps.
• If applicable, fully retract the gantry frame. Adjust the tarp/arms if needed.
• It is recommended to secure spring arms on windy days or for highway travel.
Unloading Containers
1. Remove any straps or bungees securing tarp arms.
2. If applicable, fully extend the gantry frame.
3. Wind the tarp up about 75 percent of the way.
4. If applicable, fully retract the gantry frame and adjust the arm length to rest on the housing’s landing pads.
5. Wind the tarp up fully.
6. Follow the hoist manufacturer’s procedure for unloading the demountable container.
Tips for Operators
1. For tarp systems operating off Power Take-Offs, operate the engine at low RPMs only.
2. Do not operate tarp systems under or near overhead wires.
3. Do not operate tarp system when standing near moving components.
4. Do not operate tarp system if another individual is near the container.
5. If tarp arms get hung up on a heaped load, follow company procedure for freeing the tarp before continuing to operate.
6. On windy days, it is easiest to tarp with the truck facing into the wind.
7. It is recommended to secure spring-driven arms on windy days or for highway travel.
8. It is recommended to secure the front of the tarp when hauling containers that are shorter than the gantry frame, minimizing tarp exposure to crosswind.
Employing simple practices for roll-tarp systems can add longer life to equipment and more time on the road. | WA
Landon Dykstra, Product Engineer at Shurco, is focused on advancing load-containment solutions for the waste and refuse market. Since joining Shurco in 2020, he has worked closely with distributors and customers, applying their feedback directly to product development. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology from Ferris State University. For more information, contact your Shurco representative or visit