Which Tarps to Purchase Initially

Forget moving blankets. Get rolls of felt. I carry 4 rolls of 12x15 ft felt. And I put them down on any load that even has the possibility to puncture. Most loads only need one or two.

 

Yep it will. I don't think you'll miss out on too much freight. If it was me I'd want to be prepared for anything to start. Then go back and buy some shorter ones. Everyone's situation is different though.

 

Yep the 3 piece 8 foot set is perfect to start with. Size them right and the middle section makes a great 4 ft drop machinery or steel tarp. Then later add 1 more 4 ft and a smoke tarp to complete your tarp set up.

 

So you ask for the "best" then state what you want? 3pc 8' lumber is the best. Doesn't mean it's what you need. But don't ask for something and then tell someone that gives you an answer that will cover most loads you really didn't want the best answer. If you already knew your answer then why waste our time with the question?

 

I'd go with the thicker material on the top portion and the flaps though. Thats where most of my holes wound up.

 

I was picking up a tarped load in Kansas City the other day and it required 8 ft drops. Well the load was 8 ft 5 inches. I was talking to the broker and the shipper already decided to uncrate the load to make it fit in my conastoga. The broker was relieved because he didn't know of anyone in the area with 8 foot drops and he'd have to repost the load.

 

If you are going to order a set spend the extra money and get additional rows of D rings added. The last new set of tarps I saw at my last company had grommets at the bottom and then a row of d rings every 2' up, including where the top and side met. They were heavy material on the top and flaps, but light weight on the sides. They were very nice tarps.

 

Yes the extra grommets are nice to have

 

2 6ft will do 90% out there but 2 8ft lumber can get you a load out of a weak area and pay for themselves.
I carry 1 4ft 1 6ft and 2 8ft tarps. I rarely through 8ft but when i do... glad to have them.