How long does it take to Tarp a Load?

On a basic squarish load, 45 minutes to tarp. 30 minutes to pull them off and roll them up and put them and the bungies away, unless there is wind.

Lots of sharp edges requiring padding or strange angles will add some time.

That's using 2-24'x 26' lumber tarps.

 

It would take me probably 1-1.5 hours to do your example. You just slowly get better and better. I've found a major help is weight training. It allows me to keep going without fatigue which is a killer. Also my strength and balance is good.

Here's the keys to getting a good fast job done:

1) Lay the tarp out square to begin with, adjusting it takes a lot of energy and time

2) Pin down the corners, if the load is 80% square and 20% irregular, only pin down the square section do the irregular section last

3) Grab as many bungees as you need to go all the way around, just hang them dont pull them through the rub rail

4) On your way back pull them through the rub rail, this is so much easier and faster doing it with zero bungees.

5) Add a few extra straps at the seams to keep things settled down


Find a good way to store your bungees, this really helps. Also fold your tarps so you know which way to unfold them.

 

Just read your entire post.
Lumber tarps are easier to use
(IMO) because there is so much overlap that peaks and valleys in the load get covered without problems.

A sideways steel tarp in the middle of a load always ends up looking like ####. ( edit: if the load has a peak or valley right there.)

I can barely lift my tarps on the deck, never mind the load that's what forklifts are for.

 

Allan is right about getting it square and pinning the tarp first.

 

No offense but it could be because you are a female.Remember guys are a lot stronger then ladies.I got out of flatbed just for that reason,took me forever to tarp loads.Maybe while out and you see another female flatbed driver,ask her how long it takes and what can you can do to improve the time.

 

One thing I forgot:

Ditch the big heavy tarps. I'm a smaller guy (5'6 160 lbs) and wouldn't be able to handle those big two piece 18 oz tarp systems. I have a four piece system that is 13 oz.

 

Get your back tarp square while you're on the load.

Pull it forward so that it's about 8" too far forward.

Climb down, pin the forward edge but not too tight. Then pull the tarp rearward by the end flap. This will make it nice and tight.

Secure the end flap.

Pull the sides tight toward the rear (edit: and pin them temporarily) and don't worry about folding them under just yet.

Start folding the sides under at about the middle and work your way towards the ends.

BUT only use a bungie every other D ring then work on the other side.. Put too much tension on one side and the tarp will shift.

Get on top and repeat with the next tarp.

There is no shame in carrying a ladder.

Wear your safety glasses.