When transporting goods—whether it’s construction materials, agricultural produce, or industrial equipment—safety, security, and compliance are top priorities. Two of the most common load-securing solutions are truck tarps and cargo nets. While both serve the same ultimate purpose—keeping your load in place during transit—they have distinct advantages and limitations.
Below, we present a detailed comparison of truck tarps and cargo nets, with a focus on the heavy-duty truck tarps offered by Tarp Supply Inc.®, to help you choose the best solution for your hauling needs.
Understanding Truck Tarps
Truck tarps are heavy-duty covers made from materials such as vinyl-coated polyester, polyethylene, or canvas. They are designed to completely cover and protect cargo from weather elements, debris, and theft.
Key Advantages of Truck Tarps
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Weather Protection – Keeps rain, snow, and UV rays from damaging goods.
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Full Load Coverage – Ideal for fine materials like grain, sand, or mulch that need containment.
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Enhanced Security – Conceals cargo from view, reducing theft risk.
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Custom Fit – Tarp Supply Inc.® offers tarps in various sizes, styles, and custom dimensions for perfect load coverage.
Potential Drawbacks
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Setup Time – Installing and securing a tarp can take longer than using a cargo net.
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Weight – Heavy-duty vinyl tarps can be cumbersome for one person to handle.
Understanding Cargo Nets
Cargo nets are made from strong woven straps or rope with open mesh patterns. They are designed to hold cargo in place but do not provide full coverage or weather protection.
Key Advantages of Cargo Nets
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Quick Installation – Easy to throw over a load and secure with hooks or straps.
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Lightweight and Compact – Takes up less space in storage.
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Excellent for Bulky Loads – Great for holding down large, irregularly shaped items like machinery or palletized goods.
Potential Drawbacks
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No Weather Protection – Exposes cargo to rain, snow, and UV damage.
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Limited Containment – Not suitable for loose materials like gravel, grain, or produce.
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Reduced Security – Leaves cargo visible and accessible.
|
Feature/Factor |
Truck Tarps |
Cargo Nets |
|
Weather Protection |
Excellent – Waterproof & UV resistant |
None |
|
Load Security |
High – Fully encloses load |
Moderate – Holds items but allows movement |
|
Setup Time |
Moderate – Requires securing edges |
Fast – Simple attachment points |
|
Best For |
Loose, fine, or valuable cargo |
Bulky, irregular, or secured items |
|
Durability |
High – Heavy-duty materials |
High – Strong woven straps |
|
Cost |
Higher initial investment |
Generally lower cost |
|
Visibility |
Conceals load completely |
Leaves load visible |
|
Compliance |
Meets DOT standards for covering loads |
Meets DOT securement rules for certain loads |
Side-by-Side Comparison: Truck Tarps vs. Cargo Nets
Tarp Supply Inc.® Truck Tarps – The Gold Standard in Cargo Protection
For those who prioritize maximum safety and protection, Tarp Supply Inc. truck tarps are among the most reliable on the market.
Popular Tarp Options for Hauling
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Vinyl Flatbed Tarps – 100% waterproof, abrasion-resistant, and perfect for long-haul trips in unpredictable weather.
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Lumber Tarps – Designed for tall loads, featuring side flaps for complete coverage.
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Steel Tarps – Heavy-duty protection for dense, sharp-edged loads like metal pipes or machinery.
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Coil Tarps – Tailored for steel coils, providing snug, weatherproof coverage.
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Smoke Tarps – Shield the front cargo from exhaust fumes during highway transport.
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Polyethylene Tarps – Lightweight yet strong for general hauling needs.
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Mesh Tarps – Allow airflow while protecting from debris, ideal for agricultural or landscaping loads.
All Tarp Supply Inc.® truck tarps are reinforced with heat-sealed seams, rust-resistant grommets, and heavy-duty fabric for long-lasting use.
When to Choose Truck Tarps Over Cargo Nets
Truck tarps are the superior choice if you:
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Need full weatherproof protection.
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Are hauling loose or small materials that could blow away.
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Require cargo concealment for security.
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Want a DOT-compliant covering for fine or hazardous loads.
When to Choose Cargo Nets Over Truck Tarps
Cargo nets are ideal if you:
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Need fast loading and unloading.
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Are hauling large, heavy items that can withstand the weather.
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Require lightweight, compact storage for securement gear.
The Verdict: Which Is Safer?
From a pure safety and protection standpoint, truck tarps offer superior performance. They provide complete environmental shielding, prevent cargo loss, and increase security. Cargo nets, while excellent for certain applications, cannot match the all-around protection of a high-quality truck tarp.
For professional haulers, farmers, and contractors, the choice often comes down to the nature of the load and environmental factors. In most cases—especially when the weather is unpredictable—investing in a Tarp Supply Inc.® truck tarp ensures both compliance and maximum load safety.
