Tarps

Number 1, be sure the weather will remain clear and if any doubts make sure to stow the tarps topside for quick deployment if needed.

Number 2, be aware every company has other drivers who will drop a dime on another driver they may see who is not following any company or shipper policy. They think somehow this will get them better consideration in the main office, I guess. Also, every company has certain shippers where tarping is "mandatory" regardless of receiver concerns or weather concerns (or lack thereof) so do so at your own risk and don't be surprised if you're called in for a "sit down" eventually.

Number 3, if there is potential for a load swap for whatever reason (did this all the time with TMC go get drivers home weekends) then you might better tarp it so as not to put the other driver is a difficult position.

Number 4, never put yourself in a position where you may end up having to tarp on the side of the road. Not many loads are that "sensitive" to rain but a receiver will often be able to tell if the load got rained on and they often use this as a means to beat down the price of the load which comes back to the carrier (driver who signed for the load). Plus, driving in a lot of rain and road spray can get loads seriously "dirty" very quickly.

 

If you're a company driver than follow the advice left by Stexan, if not, call the reciever and ask. I have hauled all kinds of things that didnt need a tarp and the receiver didnt want it tarped. There are some shippers out there that require tarps on all loads regardless, one that comes to mind is James Hardie (Hardieplank siding, hardiebacker, etc)

 

what does company driver got to do with it,you have a mind of your own o/o go through the same thing,it;s called refuse the load if u dont want to tarp and get something else that need;s no tarp,if u cant refuse the load then its time to change company

 

I have found on a few occassions the shipper and the receiver did not request the load to be tarped.

The broker decided for both of them it needed to be tarped. Very maddening.

 

Tarp it unless a written waiver of damage release is signed, if anyone decides the load is damaged by any environmental contamination your insurance foots the bill.

 

U know as well as I do that companys have rats and will squeal on you. Heck there are even some companies that pay a guy for that crap. I hear and know what you're saying old man but I dont wanna give a newbie company driver some info that would get him busted

 

I don't haul tarped loads anymore, so of you want to buy a brand new steel tarp, let me know LOL

 

Because your company makes that decision, not you. You get paid to do what they say. End of story. Don't like it, start your own company.

 

I had a metal building load that was supposed to be tarped. Asked the shipper if it needed to be, said no. Called dispatch and asked them. Was able to get the shipper to write on the bills "No Tarp Required". Got out of tarping the stupid thing.