Flatbed Tarp Size Chart (Lumber, Steel, Coil & Machinery)
What size tarp do you need? Use this quick chart to choose the right drop and dimensions for your load—plus pro tips and fast-shop links.
Quick Flatbed Tarp Size Chart
| Load Type | Typical Load Height | Recommended Tarp Size | Typical Drop | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steel / Low Profile | ≤ 4 ft | 16 × 27 ft steel tarp | ~4 ft | Great for coils, plate, and short stacks. Common “workhorse” size. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} |
| Plywood / Wallboard | ≤ 6 ft | 20 × 27 ft | ~6 ft | Balances coverage & handling for mid-height loads. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} |
| Lumber (tall stacks) | ≤ 8 ft | 24 × 27 ft with end flap | 8 ft | Most popular lumber setup for full-height stacks. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} |
| Single Steel Coil | Varies | 6 × 6 × 6 ft coil tarp (“coil bag”) | Shaped | Fitted design speeds securement and reduces flapping. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} |
| Machinery / Irregular | ≤ 10 ft | 30 × 30 ft (or multiple tarps) | Up to 10 ft | Mix and match sizes to wrap odd shapes securely. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} |
Lumber Tarps: When to Use an 8 ft Drop
If you’re hauling full-height stacks, the classic choice is a 24×27 lumber tarp with an 8 ft drop and tail flap. It’s designed to cover tall, squared loads without fighting the fabric at the corners, and the flap helps seal the rear. Look for three rows of D-rings and reinforced hems for longevity. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Steel Tarps: The Low-Profile Workhorse
16×27 steel tarps are built for lower stacks of steel, plate, or mixed freight. Because you’re not covering an 8 ft wall of cargo, you don’t need as much drop—but you do want high-strength vinyl, smart D-ring spacing, and clean edges that won’t catch wind. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Coil Tarps: 6×6×6 “Coil Bags”
For single coils, a 6×6×6 coil tarp (often called a coil bag) gives you fitted coverage without a ton of excess fabric. The shaped cut makes it faster to secure and reduces flapping compared to flat panels. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Machinery Tarps: Cover Irregular Loads
Forklifts, compact excavators, and other irregular equipment are best handled with large panels (e.g., 30×30) or a multi-tarp approach. The goal is clean coverage with minimal bunching—use edge protectors anywhere you have sharp corners or straps bearing down. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Build, Materials & Life-Extension Tips
- 18 oz vinyl is the heavy-duty standard for trucking tarps—fully waterproof with heat-sealed seams. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Reinforced hems & corners + multiple D-ring rows help distribute loads and prevent hot spots. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Use edge protectors anywhere straps meet sharp edges to prevent premature wear. (Grab them with your tarp order so they ship together.)
- Dry before storage, avoid dragging on pavement, and inspect tie-down points to spot wear early.
FAQs: Picking the Right Tarp Size
- What size tarp do I need for tall lumber stacks?
- Most drivers use 24×27 ft with an 8 ft drop and a rear flap for full-height stacks. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- What’s the standard steel tarp size?
- 16×27 ft is a common go-to for lower steel loads and mixed freight. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Do I need a coil tarp or a flat tarp for coils?
- Coil-specific tarps (often 6×6×6) are shaped to fit rounds faster and reduce flapping vs. flats. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Is 18 oz vinyl worth it?
- For long-haul trucking, yes—18 oz vinyl delivers full waterproofing and durability with heat-sealed seams. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Can I use a mid-size (20×27) tarp for wallboard/plywood?
- Yes. For mid-height stacks, 20×27 with a ~6 ft drop balances coverage and handling. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Need the Right Size? Get Pro-Grade Tarps Delivered Fast
Whether you need 8' drop lumber tarps, a 16×27 steel tarp, a fitted 6×6×6 coil tarp, or a 30×30 machinery cover, we’ve got it—and we ship fast.
