Tarpaulin bodies are among the most common vehicles for general cargo transport. Their side-, rear- and top-opening structure makes forklift loading easy, allowing pallets, sacks, timber and packaged goods to be carried by the same vehicle. Yet assuming all tarpaulin bodies are equal is a misconception.
Steel or aluminium?
The frame choice is the first and most important decision shaping the vehicle's lifetime performance. A steel frame (typically ST52 grade) offers high strength and is ideal for heavy loads. Aluminium is lighter; it reduces dead weight and increases payload capacity — particularly important on long-distance operations where fuel and cost-per-load are critical.
Quick comparison
- Steel: high durability, heavier, lower upfront cost, ideal for heavy industry.
- Aluminium: lightweight, fuel-saving, high capacity, ideal for long-haul.
Tarpaulin fabric quality classes
Tarpaulin fabric is typically PVC-coated polyester. The main parameters that determine quality are:
- Weight (gsm): 680–900 g/m². Higher weight means a more durable but heavier tarpaulin.
- UV resistance: prevents colour and material degradation under prolonged sun exposure.
- Water resistance: particularly critical for open-loading sites.
- Tear resistance: protection against mechanical damage during loading and unloading.
Tarpaulin weight alone is not enough; coating quality and welding technique are the real determinants. Logistics Equipment Guide 2025
Choosing the loading type
When ordering a tarpaulin body, the loading method directly affects operational efficiency. Side opening is ideal for forklift loading, top opening for crane loading, and rear opening for classic warehouse operations. Most modern tarpaulin bodies support all three; based on usage frequency you should decide which one needs to be reinforced further.
Certifications and international compliance
Certification is critical for export-driven operations. The EN 12642-L standard defines the minimum strength requirements for load-securing points; the TIR conformity certificate defines customs sealing criteria. Ensure these certifications are in place based on the countries your vehicle will travel to.
Checklist for the right choice
- What is your typical cargo type? (palletised, bulk, long profile, etc.)
- Average transport distance and tonnage?
- Which loading method is used most often?
- Which countries do you export to?
- Expected service life of the vehicle?
In summary
Although a tarpaulin body looks simple, it is a piece that requires fine-tuning for every logistics operation. The right frame, fabric and loading configuration save fuel and maintenance costs and improve operational speed. At ARAT, we tailor this configuration specifically for your project.