Flat - Utility Trailer Tarp

Since a flat configuration is typically the least expensive, most people go for it. It also makes the cover somewhat more adaptable because it may be used for purposes other than covering a single trailer. The main drawback of utilizing a flat tarp for a utility trailer is that extra material will need to be folded over in the corners before the tarp can be secured. When your trailer is not in use, you may be able to untie the tarp on one end and let it sag to allow rainwater runoff. This is one benefit of ordering a flat tarp.

Box Shape - Utility Trailer Tarp

Box Shape utility trailer tarps are constructed with the shape of a box top; the extra material at the corners is trimmed out and sewn together. Fitted tarp sizing must be done carefully because an order for a tarp that is just too small might not fit your trailer. However, if the tarp is too large, it won't fasten firmly and will appear sloppy. To learn how to keep rainwater from collecting in the middle of your fitted tarp, make sure to read our page on water runoff.

Single Flap - Utility Trailer Tarp

A tall gate or ramp that protrudes significantly above the remainder of the trailer is a feature of certain trailers. It is challenging to use a conventional flat or fitted tarp with this gate. Usually, the best course of action is to order a tarp with a flap, like the one below. tarp that has been fitted with a single flap to fit a gate or ramp. After that, the flap would be tucked inside the trailer so that the gate and ramp wouldn't hinder the cargo and secure them. Take note of the angle iron that protrudes from the trailer in this picture to strengthen the sidewalls. Make sure your width is adjusted to accommodate elements like this.

Double Flap - Utility Trailer Tarp

In certain situations, you'll want your fitted tarp to have flaps on both ends. You could use this to access a gate without completely removing the tarp, or you could use it to accommodate a ramp on each end of your trailer. This also solves the problem that comes with using a regular flat tarp and having to fold over extra material.

Water-Resistant Seams

When buying custom utility trailer covers, you want to ensure they will keep your possessions safe, clean, and dry. However, did you know that the needle holes created during sewing can leave your cover susceptible to leaks? Big box stores don't tell you that their covers can leak at these stitching points during heavy rain. This can result in drip marks and moisture damage to your trailer's contents. That's why ALCO offers water-resistant stitching sealing, which covers the stitching on the inside of the cover, preventing rain and moisture from seeping in and damaging your cargo.

Use Vinyl And Not Fabric Covers

The best protection against water is found in vinyl covers, which ALCO specializes in. Vinyl allows water droplets to bead up and slide off the cover before they have time to soak through, thanks to its slick surface. While polyester blends are also common, their waterproofing treatment can wear off, become brittle, and crack. This allows water to seep through or keeps the cover wet after it rains. The resulting exposure could lead to additional expenses for a new cover or repairs to your damaged trailer. Nearly every utility trailer cover on the market claims to be waterproof, but most only stand up to a slight drizzle. When heavy rain falls, your trailer's contents can get soaked. It is important to choose a material that can withstand heavy rains. ALCO offers only high-grade vinyl that holds up to the elements!

Grommets

Grommets are spaced every 12 to 18" depending on the size of cover that you order. These grommets can usually be placed evenly along the tarp's sides, but occasionally it's crucial for them to line up with or cross over the trailer fasteners. As long as you email us a schematic with the grommet locations, we can typically satisfy your request for precise grommet positioning. Typically, you would lay a tape measure at one end of the tarp and provide us the inch marks that indicate the grommet centers' locations. If you require exact grommet positions, it is preferable to email us a diagram of your setup.

Tie Downs 

Tie-downs (ropes/cords) are not provided by ALCO but can be purchased at any local hardware store. To secure a utility trailer cover, you should use a durable and weather-resistant rope or cable. Here are a few recommended options:

Bungee Cords:

Advantages: flexible, easy to use, and can provide a tight fit. Disadvantages: May wear out or lose elasticity over time, especially when exposed to sunlight and weather conditions.

Polypropylene Rope:

Advantages: Lightweight, resistant to mildew, rot, and UV rays, and has good tensile strength.
Disadvantages: Can degrade over time with prolonged exposure to UV light, but it usually lasts longer than natural fiber ropes.

Nylon Rope:

Advantages: Strong, durable, resistant to UV rays and abrasion, and maintains its strength when wet. Disadvantages: Can stretch under load, which might require retightening.

Polyester Rope:

Advantages: Very strong, UV-resistant, minimal stretch, and maintains strength when wet.
Disadvantages: Generally more expensive than polypropylene or nylon ropes.

Elastic Shock Cord:

Advantages: Provides flexibility and a tight fit, good for applications where you need some give.
Disadvantages: May degrade over time, especially when exposed to UV rays.

Steel Cable (with vinyl coating):

Advantages: Extremely strong, resistant to cutting and weather conditions, and provides a very secure hold. Disadvantages: Less flexible and more challenging to work with, heavier, and can be more expensive.

For most utility trailer covers, a combination of bungee cords for ease of use and flexibility, along with a high-quality rope like polyester or a coated steel cable for added security, is a good strategy. Ensure that whatever you choose is rated for outdoor use and can withstand the weather conditions in your area.