Truckers and fleet managers today have many choices when it comes to covering and protecting their cargo. In the past, flatbed trailers required drivers to spend hours of back-breaking labor tarping their loads. For oversized or oddly shaped deliveries, this process could be even more time-consuming, if not hazardous. The introduction of tarping systems has made it possible for items to be tarped much more easily and safely. Consisting of retractable tarps attached to a lightweight framework on rails, they offer greater ease of use as well as requiring only a fraction of the time to cover the entire trailer.
A prominent type of these solutions is the Conestoga tarp system, but this is not the only option available on the market today. Eagle Tarp Systems created by Verduyn Tarps offers numerous advantages over a Conestoga trailer. These make it the clear choice for fleets looking for a safe, reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional tarps.
Here are just a few of the ways in which they are the superior choice when compared to others.
Aerodynamics
One of the biggest points in favor of the Eagle system over Conestoga is evident just by looking at both. The latter features square-cornered headboards, but Eagle has a rounded design. Additionally, the tarp does not balloon behind the headboard. Thanks to its more aerodynamic construction, trucks experience lower wind resistance. This translates to a 5 percent fuel savings over the Conestoga design. For any trucker or fleet manager concerned about the bottom line, this is a substantial amount.
Ease of Use
Another noteworthy feature of Eagle is how easy it is to use. Because the tarp is retractable, drivers can pull it over their trailers while standing on the ground. This means what used to take them a few hours to do now can be accomplished in minutes. In fact, truckers who use these systems can save up to two hours each day of tarping time.
Because of its simplicity, it also can be very helpful for carriers in terms of driver retention. When drivers spend more time on the road and less time trying to tarp their loads, they experience greater job satisfaction. Without the need to climb onto the deck of the trailer, the risk of injuries and workers’ compensation claims decreases, as well.
Time and money spent on maintenance also are reduced when compared to other options. Its durability means fewer repairs and patches are needed.
Affordability
Trucking companies are concerned with improving their bottom lines above all else. No matter how many advantages a tarping setup may offer, they mean nothing if their cost outweighs them. Fortunately, this is not an issue with Eagle. The average system costs less than $40 per week to own. In addition, the amount of time saved and the increased productivity means it practically pays for itself within two years. The versatility of these solutions can be utilized on a wide variety of loads, including most heavy-duty situations.
Durability and Maintenance
Conestoga systems are known for their solid and durable construction. However, their biggest downside is their rigid mechanics and square frame design. Such configurations expose these systems’ stress points, like the joints and rails, to possible wear and tear. The more these tarp systems are exposed to daily use, the more they are prone to repair and maintenance.
Eagle Tarp Systems, on the other hand, are engineered with solid and corrosion-resistant materials. Whether driving on salted winter roads in Ontario or through Alberta’s oil fields, these tarp systems can withstand the harsh weather conditions. Equipped with a smooth-gliding system, truckers will experience less mechanical strain. As a result of its sturdy system, truckers will have fewer repairs, lowering overall maintenance costs.
Operating in demanding conditions is inevitable, hence it is essential to choose tarp systems that provide long-lasting and low maintenance solutions for hassle-free daily operations on the road.
Customization and Versatility
While known for its broad range of sizes and configurations, Conestogas fall short on adaptability to unusual or highly specific load shapes.
Eagle Tarp Systems feature customizable setups to cater to any load demands and preferences including oversized, irregular, or sensitive cargo. As challenging as hauling lumber or construction materials sounds, the adjustable and modular designs that the Eagle is built with keeps loads fit and secure.
Safety Enhancements
There is no substitute to safety, especially in the transportation industry. High winds and icy roads are common weather conditions in Canada. In choosing tarping systems, safety should be a top priority.
One of the stand out features of Conestoga systems is their improved manual tarping, featuring a sliding frame mechanism. However, constant adjustments are still required to get the best possible experience. Operators need to climb onto the trailer to do this. Winter can cause surfaces to become slippery, increasing the chance of injuries.
Eagle Tarp systems have safety features that reduce the risk of injuries, removing the challenging aspects of tarping. Its features no longer require operators to climb onto the trailers to keep the tarp secure.
Operational Efficiency
In logistics, time is of utmost importance. It takes hours to set up a tarping system, affecting operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This is why having a tarp system that can reduce installation time can save operators both time and effort.
Unlike manual tarps, Conestoga tarp systems are easy to install, with minimal effort involved in ensuring tarps are positioned correctly. A well-maintained system ensures uninterrupted operations, while misaligned tarps cause delays. In an industry where every second counts, it is important to have a trusted tarp system.
Eagle Tarp systems feature designs to ensure efficient deployment. They only require a single operator to manage loads, whether loading or unloading them from the ground. As tarp configuring over a load can be time consuming, tarping systems that reduce manual tasks allow drivers to focus more on transporting goods.
Environmental and Considerations
There are various aspects of sustainability that need to be considered when operating a truck. From carbon footprints to emission regulations, operators are taking rigid measures to reduce their vehicles’ environmental impact. A tarping system, while not often taken into account, can play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing fuel efficiency.
Conestoga Tarp Systems have a boxier frame. They also have flat surfaces, which take a toll on higher speeds by creating additional wind drag, thus increasing fuel consumption.
Eagle Tarp Systems have an aerodynamic profile, designed for reducing wind resistance, remarkably reducing fuel consumption by 5%. For operators with dozens of units running thousands of kilometres per week, this is considered substantial fuel savings.
Industry Applications
Canada has unique transportation demands with a broad range of industries being served. From construction to energy, a tarping system should keep up with the industry’s demands. As there is no one-size-fits-all approach, tarp systems should be customizable and designed based on the needs of the industry.
Conestoga Tarp Systems are suitable for freight and construction industries as these industries are more focused on standard-sized loads. Conestoga Tarp Systems are not recommended for industries that haul oversized or irregularly shaped cargo.
Eagle Tarp Systems are designed for many industries including agriculture, construction, oil and gas, heavy equipment and forestry. These industries haul regularly, hence they need tarp systems that can cater to their cargo and keep up with the load demands and challenges.
Conclusion
The Canadian trucking industry considers safety, efficiency, and adaptability as benchmarks when choosing tarping systems. Eagle Tarp Systems present a compelling advantage compared to Conestoga’s traditional tarp systems.
Verduyn Tarps provides reliable tarping solutions with commitment to innovation and customer support.
When it comes to offering a superior tarping experience, Eagle Tarp Systems is by far the best choice. For more information or to get started on your order, contact Verduyn Tarps today.
Note: This expanded blog post incorporates information from the original article and adds detailed insights into equipment, securement methods, and considerations specific to Canadian truckers. For further information or to purchase equipment, please visit Verduyn Tarps.
