Choosing the right tarp system for dump trucks and trailers helps protect loads, reduce spillage, and simplify on-board operations. This guide highlights five top systems that balance durability, ease of use, and compatibility across common bed sizes. From electric four-spring setups to manual crank kits, each option offers distinct advantages for American fleets and DIY operators alike.
Summary of selected products:
| Product | Brand | Bed Width Range | Tarp Type | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kym Industries Electric 4-Spring System | Kym Industries Inc. | up to 110″ | Black Mesh | Electric |
| Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring | Carolina Tarps | Various, up to 110″ | Mesh | Electric |
| Buyers Products DTR7018 Manual Aluminum Tarp System | Buyers Products Company | 7′ x 18′ | Mesh | Manual |
| Selvouth Heavy-Duty Dump Truck Tarp Kit | Selvouth | 7′ x 18′ | PVC Mesh | Manual |
| Mytee Products Dump Truck & Trailer Tarp Kit | Mytee Products | 8′ x 14′ / 8′ x 18′ | Mesh | Manual |
Kym Industries Electric 4-Spring Tarp System
The Kym Industries system uses a robust 93″ upper and lower polished aluminum, rust-proof arm design designed to cover up to 24 feet of bed length with an 110″ width. It includes a 12V 50:1 Apache electric motor and a 50-foot rotary switch kit with 6-gauge dual conductor battery cable. The black mesh tarp is provided, offering durable protection while remaining lightweight. This setup targets fleets needing reliable, long-span operation with minimal manual effort.
Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring System
This system emphasizes a rust-proof aluminum profile that provides a polished look while staying lightweight and durable. It ships with a complete installation hardware kit and includes a rotary switch with 50 feet of 6-gauge dual conductor battery cable. Note that tarps are sold separately. The kit is designed for fast installation and efficient operation, helping cover loads quickly while reducing ground-level exposure for operators.
Buyers Products DTR7018 Manual Aluminum Tarp System
Designed for straightforward tarp applications, this 7′ x 18′ mesh tarp kit includes heavy-duty hardware and a 20-foot pull rope. The aluminum roller telescopes to match the truck width, and the set comes with a 7-inch folding crank with detent for reliable manual operation. All mounting hardware is included, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a simple, durable manual system with proven performance.
Selvouth Heavy-Duty Dump Truck Tarp Kit
This kit provides a 7’x18′ PVC mesh tarp with 50% UV-blocking features and a reinforced 18oz HDPE mesh construction for durability. It includes an anchoring system with brass grommets and a PVC mesh pocket, designed to integrate with universal mounts on truck tarp cover systems. The design emphasizes ruggedness for repeated exposure to outdoor conditions and heavy payloads, making it suitable for demanding dump applications.
ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS Electric Aluminum Arm 4 Spring Kit
This four-spring system uses heavy-duty aluminum arms with precision robotic welds for strength and rust resistance. It supports dump beds up to 23 feet long and up to 110 inches wide, with an adjustable cross-tube that lets the tarp width be set between 93 and 110 inches. The cross tube can be shortened to a narrower width for specialized installations, enhancing versatility across different truck configurations.
Mytee Products Dump Truck & Trailer Tarp Kit (8′ x 14′)
Mytee’s kit is built for simple dump body and trailer tarp applications, offering an 8′ x 14′ PVC double-pocket mesh tarp. The system is designed to be a complete solution with all mounting hardware included and uses a durable extruded aluminum tarp roller that telescopes to the exact truck width. The DTR series emphasizes ease of installation and flexible sizing for common dump applications.
Mytee Products Dump Truck & Trailer Tarp Kit (8′ x 18′)
This variant expands to an 8′ x 18′ PVC double-pocket mesh tarp, designed for manual hand-crank operation and cab-level control. It continues Mytee’s focus on user-friendly installation and modular components, ensuring compatibility with various dump body layouts and enabling efficient, controlled tarp deployment to prevent spillage during transport.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a dump truck tarp system include bed width compatibility, mounting hardware availability, and the desired level of automation. Electric systems reduce manual effort and are ideal for longer routes or frequent tarp usage, but they require wiring and power sources. Manual systems offer straightforward installation and maintenance with no electrical dependencies, which can be advantageous in remote work sites.
Tarps come in mesh or PVC options; mesh tarps are lighter and provide airflow, while PVC tarps offer enhanced durability and weather resistance. Material quality, reinforcement of hems and pockets, and the presence of rear pockets for optional anti-sail devices influence long-term performance. Look for systems with robust aluminum components to minimize corrosion and a reliable roller mechanism that telescopes to the exact bed width.
Installation compatibility is another critical factor. Some kits provide universal mounting hardware designed for standard dump bodies, while others require more customized mounting or adapters. Warranty terms and customer support should be reviewed to ensure coverage if components wear out or require replacement. Finally, consider whether you prefer a single-package solution (roll, tarp, and hardware together) or modular components that can be mixed and matched to fit existing installations.
For fleets with a mix of bed lengths or vehicles, prioritize scalable options with adjustable arms and cross tubes that accommodate different widths and lengths. If load containment is a priority, evaluate the anti-sail features, grommet integrity, and the overall tautness achievable by the roller system. Balancing upfront cost with maintenance needs will help determine the most economical choice over the system’s lifespan.