How to Stay Safe While Using Rubber Tarp Straps for Flatbeds

Published on 02/29/24


Flatbed Lumber Tarp Installed on Trailer

What Are Rubber Tarp Straps for Flatbed Trailers?


Rubber Tarp Straps have become a staple in the flatbed cargo control industry as one of the preferred ways to keep flatbed tarps such as flatbed lumber tarps or flatbed steel tarps secured over the cargo they are protecting while going down the road.

When flatbed tarps are secured properly they can protect the cargo from debris while going down the road ranging from road debris, dust, grime, and ultimately the weather that otherwise could cause potential damage to the customer’s cargo.

As a professional trucker, there is nothing worse than delivering the cargo to the customer only to realize that the cargo has become damaged or destroyed along the way causing upset customers and potential damage claims. This often causes the loss of repeat customers and time that could be spent by staying on the road.

Flatbed Trailer Securing Cargo with the use of flatbed tarps

How to Prevent Injuries While Using Rubber Tarp Straps


When it comes to securing your cargo with flatbed traps to prepare them for transportation the use of rubber tarp straps is a common and yet effective practice. However, overlooking the safety instructions and warnings associated with rubber tarp straps can lead to serious injuries and accidents. Here are some of the best ways to avoid injury and stay safe during your next securement.

Wearing Head and Eye Protection – The number one way to stay safe while securing your flatbed tarps with rubber tarp straps starts by wearing the correct PPE gear. It would help to use a helmet and eye protection such as safety glasses to prevent injury during the strapping process.

Understanding the Strap Usage Limitations – Rubber Tarp Straps as the name describes are intended to be used with securing tarps on flatbed trailers. Never use rubber tarp straps to lift objects or use tarp straps to secure loads as a primary form of tie-down straps. Improper usage of tarp straps may result in injury.

Rubber Tarp Strap  Flatbed Supplies  Lodi Metals

Inspect Tarp Straps Before and After Every Use – By inspecting your rubber tarp straps before and after every use you can avoid further damage or injury caused by rubber tarp straps. If you notice any cuts, tears, cracking, or other visible damage along the rubber tarp strap you should dispose of the damaged tarp strap and use a different tarp strap.

Secure Hooks Properly – During the tie-down process it is crucial to secure the hooks fully. Hooks that are not fully secured can result in the strap coming undone or detached leading to potential accidents or damage to your cargo. Always double-check and confirm that the hooks are securely fastened before hitting the road.

Avoiding Sharp Edges and Hot Surfaces – You should avoid sharp or abrasive edges when possible as this can cause the tarp straps to fray or weaken over time and cause them to become damaged and need replacement. You should avoid any hot metal surfaces as the tarp straps’ rubber material may begin to melt slowly in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight and cause unnecessary wear and tear damage on the straps.

15inch Rubber Tarp Strap for Flatbed Trailers  Lodi Metals

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Rubber Tarp Straps on Flatbed Trailer  Lodi Metals

Frequently Asked Rubber Tarp Strap Questions


How Much Do Rubber Tarp Straps Stretch? – Depending on the material made from natural rubber or other material, you can generally expect stretching from 20 to 50 percent on average. This means you can expect a 15-inch rubber tarp strap to stretch to approximately 21 inches.

Can You Cut Rubber Tarp Straps to Size? – You should never attempt to cut rubber tarp straps to size as it is extremely unsafe to do such. Rubber tarp straps are extremely affordable and the risk of cutting rubber tarp straps causing injury or damage is very high. We strongly do not recommend anyone attempting to cut their tarp straps to a shorter length.

How Long Do Rubber Tarp Straps Last? – Rubber tarp straps generally have a lifespan of 1 to 5 years. However, frequent use or exposure to extreme heat may result in a shorter duration of effectiveness as they are in demanding environments.

Can Rubber Tarp Straps Be Used As Tie Down Straps? – No, you should never risk your load by using tarp straps to secure your load outside of holding down your flatbed tarp. They were not intended for usage and due to their stretching may cause the cargo to come unsecured or for you to become injured during the process of securing the cargo. Rubber Tarp Straps are not rated and are unsafe to use for cargo control.