The Official Harp's Tarps Blog

Tarps in action

2012-01-20T16:45:00.000-05:00

"Problems are only opportunities in work clothes.". Henry John Kleiser.

Our company loves pushing the envelope of designing tarps to solve problems. This particular tarp is covering a sonar that is going to the South Pole to measure the ice thickness. The vehicle and tarp are specially designed to withstand the extreme conditions of the Arctic.

Do you have a problem...high tarp repairs from poorly built tarps..needing lighter tarps to handle, or better-built tarps that can handle tough conditions? For over 36 years, we have answered tarping questions, and are always looking for the next challenge...give us a shot, and we'll put on our work clothes.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Harp's Tarps heavy duty tarp straps

2012-01-20T12:07:00.000-05:00

It's the law, don't let your straps get minor cuts in them.

4” webbing with flat hook 30’ in length

Webbing Breaking Strength: 9,090 kgs./20,000 lbs.

Working Load Limit: 2,455 kgs./ 5,400 lbs.

Super edge zone straps are designed to meet the demands securing heavy-duty cargo in the flatbed industry. High strength webbing with more threads per inch than our standard webbing, increasing abrasion resistance across the entire strap. Rolled edge technology provides abrasion resistance at the edge where tearing and fraying occur first. Fibers in the tube-like edges must be severed before abrasions can be passed to the rest of the strap.

Ask for Harp's Tarps HD Cargo Straps

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

2011-12-30T08:10:00.003-05:00

Get Educated, Get Involved – Participate in this Washington Fly-In!

Wednesday, February 1, 2012 • Washington, DC

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE U.S. ECONOMY RUNS ON TRUCKS

Trucking is the engine that drives the United States economy. Restricting or limiting trucking productivity hurts corporate supply chains, damages the economy and results in fewer jobs.

Leading industry associations are taking this key message to Washington, D.C. during an orchestrated Fly-In on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012.

You’ll have the opportunity to become more educated on the issues, more connected to your industry peers, and voice your opinions to lawmakers on critical transportation issues.

Reference: http://www.standupfortrucking.org/

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-23T13:32:00.000-05:00

We at Harp's Tarps wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas, and Season's Greetings!

Have a safe driving holiday,

The Harp's Tarps Family

Vermont asphalt tarps

2011-12-16T14:46:00.001-05:00

If you haul asphalt in Vermont, and you are looking to tarp your loads to stay current with VT laws, we are here to help.
Click here to see the tarp design that will keep you legal.

Please call Harp's Tarps for all your tarp needs, or tarp questions.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Air Force Truckers Haul U.S. out of Iraq - Truckinginfo.com

2011-11-16T08:29:00.000-05:00

Air Force Truckers Haul U.S. out of Iraq - Truckinginfo.com

Tune in to the Road Dog Network on SiriusXM

2011-10-07T13:10:00.000-04:00

Monday morning begins our highly anticipated radio advertisements on The Road Dog Trucking Radio .

Tune in to Sirius and XM106 on your dial for shows like Dave Nemo, The Lockridge Report, and the Truckin' Bozo Dale Summers.
Tune into these shows...here is the current schedule and get informed on issues facing truckers and the trucking industry.

Give us a shout-out when you hear our jingle! We'd love to hear from you.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Why Stainless Steel Dee Rings? Magnesium Chloride.

2011-10-05T13:13:00.000-04:00

As an option, you can purchase your tarps from us with stainless steel Dee Rings.

Back in the day, when I was commuting back and forth from The University of Akron in Ohio, my spankin' cherry red Camaro would get salt all over it from the clearing of roads in the winter. If I didn't get that salt off...my car would have not lasted for as long as it did...it would have turned to dust.

Enter the new era, where salt is only one part of the equation to keeping roads snow/ice free. Now there is Magnesium Chloride...or liquid Magnesium Chloride...The liquid magnesium chloride is sprayed on dry pavement prior to the roads becoming wet and before freezing temperatures in the winter months to prevent snow and ice from adhering and bonding to the roadway.

This is great for road safety, bad for anything that is not sealed properly that comes in contact with this substance....like truck tarps, and anything hauled untarped.
Fleets that store their tarps stored wet...will find that even with galvanized Dee Rings, rust will start to appear, then will start to deteriorate the vinyl tarps by becoming rust-stained and brittle.

Hauling re-bar? Typically a non-tarped item, suddenly has to be tarped to keep this chemical from touching it...call us, we'll help you determine what you need.

In the South...not so much a problem, but for the folks dealing with this in the winter monthly...you need some help, and we have the solution.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Karate, Mixed Martial Arts, Jujitsu mats

2011-09-22T10:05:00.000-04:00

Tarps in Action! We love seeing pictures of our tarp applications. This is a Jujitsu training mat. We RF weld our seams for ultra-durability. As always, we custom fit to your dimensions.

Give us a ring, and see how we can design your next martial arts training mat.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Q: Jet-power trucks A: what is fast?

2011-09-15T09:02:00.001-04:00

Sukkah Tarps

2011-09-14T12:15:00.001-04:00

Mid October is the Jewish Holiday for Sukkot or Feast of Homes. Throughout the Holiday, the Sukkah becomes the living area of one's home.
We can build the tarps for these Sukkah structures. We have a variety of materials from vinyls, to mesh to shade cloth.

The Holiday reflects the 40 years of wandering in the desert by the Israelites. The homes demonstrate the fragile living conditions during those times.

Please call us for samples and pricing.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

No driver needed: Firm in Iowa develops 'autonomous' tractor – USATODAY.com

2011-08-31T08:47:00.000-04:00

No driver needed: Firm in Iowa develops 'autonomous' tractor – USATODAY.com

Marten to Transport 9/11 Memorial Artifacts - Truckinginfo.com

2011-08-22T08:11:00.000-04:00

Marten to Transport 9/11 Memorial Artifacts - Truckinginfo.com

Lumber tarps

2011-08-12T15:01:00.005-04:00

KEEP AMERICA WORKING. BUY LUMBER TARPS AND DUMP TRUCK TARPS THAT ARE BUILT IN THE USA!

Ask where your tarps are built first...then call us.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Squeaky Clean Tarps!

2011-08-08T16:07:00.003-04:00

Another 'Tarp In Action' from an alert reader. If you have one of our tarps, and you would like us to feature it on our blog. Please send me an email and we'll gladly post it on our social network for tarps!

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Truck Convoy Directory for Special Olympics

2011-07-28T10:10:00.003-04:00

The World's Largest Truck Convoy is an annual one-day celebration that helps raise money for Special Olympics.

This year's Convoy is on Saturday, 17 September 2011 (unless otherwise noted below).

Information about routes and destinations, and registration forms will be listed here, so check back often. For more information, contact the individual in your state or province listed below, or Christy Collum, Law Enforcement Torch Run Manager, Special Olympics, +1 (202) 824-0268 or ccollum@specialolympics.org.

•
ArkansasCapt. Glen Holloway
Highway Police
1 (501) 569-2421

MCSI Jay Thompson
Special Services
Arkansas Highway Police
1 (501 569-2371
1 (501) 568-4921 (fax)
Jay.Thompson@arkansashighways.com

Shelly Yielding
Development Director
Special Olympics Arkansas
2115 Main Street North
North Little Rock, AR 72115
1 (501) 771-0222
1 (501) 771-1020 (Fax)
shellyyielding@aol.com
www.specialolympicsarkansas.org

ArizonaMarlene Calebrese
Truck Convoy
marlene@specialolympicsarizona.org
Special Olympics Azizona
1850 N. Central Ave., Suite 900
Phoenix, AZ 85004
1 (602) 230-1200
1 (602) 230-1110 (fax)

Ruth Sanchez
Director of the Arizona Law Enforcement Torch Run Program
Special Olympics Arizona
1850 N. Central Avenue, Suite 900
Phoenix, AZ 85004
1 (602) 230-1200 1 (602) 230-1200
1 (602) 230-1110 (Fax)
ruth@apecialolympicsarizona.org
Download Arizona WLTC Flyer Download Arizona Registration Info Download Arizona Route Info

Delaware Convoy on October 15, 2011
•Lisa A. Smith
•Director of Special Events
•Special Olympics Delaware
•619 South College Avenue
•Newark, DE 19716-1901
•1 (302) 831-3482
•1 (302) 831-3483 (Fax)
•lismith@udel.edu
•
Download Delaware Registration Info

•Idaho Convoy on June 6, 2011•Tina Perkins•tperkins@cityofboise.org•
•
•Amy Eisele•Special Olympics Idaho
•405 S. 8th St., Suite 201.
•Boise, ID 83702
•1 (208) 323-0482 Ext. 21
•Amy@idso.org

•Illinois Convoy on October 1, 2011•Matt Johnson
•Director of Marketing/Events
•Special Olympics Illinois
•800 Roosevelt Road
•Building B, Suite 220
•Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
•1 (309) 888-2562
•1 (63) 942-5613 (Fax)
•mjohnson@soill.org
•
•Jeff Henson
•Director, Special Events
•Special Olympics Illinois
•605 E. Willow
•Normal, IL 61761
•1 (309) 888-2563
•1 (309) 888-2570 (Fax)
•jhenson@soill.org

•Iowa Convoy on September 24, 2011•Jeanette Steinfeldt
•Special Olympics Iowa
•551 Dovetail Road
•P.O. Box 620
•Grimes, Iowa 50111
•1 (515) 986-5520
•1 (515) 986-5530 (Fax)
•jsteinfeldt@soiowa.org

•Kansas NW Convoy on September 10, 2011•SW Convoy on June 18, 2011
•Luke Schulte
•SOKS Special Event Coordinator
•schultel@ksso.org
•
•Southwest Leg contact: Vic Fisher
•1 (620) 338-6892
•
•Northwest Leg contact: Joe and Jane Mentlick
•1 (785) 460-2818
•flyingeagleexpress@hotmail.com
•For registration visit www.ksso.org

•Kentucky
•Dave Kerchner
•Special Olympics Kentucky
•105 Lakeview Court
•Frankfurt, KY 40601
•1 800-633-7403
•1 (502) 695-8222
•dkerchner@soky.org

•Louisiana
•Bridget Hebert
•Special Olympics Louisiana
•Director of Special Projects Northern Region
•4178 Hwy 165 South
•Oakdale, LA 71463
•1 (318) 335-0606
•1 (318) 335-0630 (Fax)
•bhebert@laso.org
•

Manitoba, CanadaMark Van Schie000036995.DDIV HQ.DDIv@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
www.specialolympics.mb.ca

Terry Hopkinson
Director of Special Projects
Special Olympics Manitoba
1 (204) 925-5628
1 (204) 257-1923 (Fax)
hopper@mts.net

Minnesota
Kathy J. Karkula
100 Washington Avenue South, Ste 550
Minneapolis, MN 55401-1257
1 (612) 604-1272
1 *800) 783-7732 Ext. 272 (Toll Free: (MN Only)
1 (612) 333-8782 (Fax)
karkulak@somn.org

Missouri
Joplin
Crystal Chalk
Special Olympics Missouri
2700 McClelland Blvd, Bldg B, Ste 222
Joplin, MO 64804
1 (417) 624-5505
chalk@somo.org

St. Louis
Jennifer Brown
Special Olympics MO
1516 So. Brentwood, Ste 100
St. Louis, MO 63144
1 (314) 961-7755
brown@somo.org

Jeff Cook
O'Fallon PD
jcook@ofallon.mo.us

Montana
Sheryl Shockley
1 (406) 255-0540
1 (406) 855-3790 (Cell)
1 (406) 255-0523 (Fax)
RoboGrammie@gmail.com
Montana Convoy Brochure

Terri Sappington
Law Enforcement Torch Run Coordinator
Special Olympics Montana
PO Box 3507
Great Falls, MT 59403
1 (406) 216-5327
tsappington@somt.org

Nebraska
Katie Bowser
Director of Development
Special Olympics Nebraska
11011 Q St., Ste 104C
Omaha, NE 68137
1 (402) 331-5545 Ext 17
kbowser@sone.org

North Carolina
Dot Kohlbach
Special Olympics North Carolina
Senior Manager Law Enforcement Torch Run
1 (919) 719-7662 Ext 119
dkohlbach@sonc.net

North Dakota
Kathy Meagher
Special Olympics North Dakota
2616 S. 26th Street
Grand Forks, ND 58201
1 (701) 746-0331
sond@midconetwork.com
Special Olympics North Dakota

Ontario, CanadaTammy Blackwell
43 Corydon Place
Cambridge, Ontario N1R 7L5
1 (519) 577-2556
1 (519) 623-8204 (Fax)
tblackwell.paclease@kwtoronto.com
www.sosoconvoy.com

SaskatchewanRoger Dumont
Special Olympics Saskatchewan
Regina, Saskatchewan
1 (888) 307-6226 Ext. 2
1 (306) 780-9277 (Office)
1 (306) 780-9441 (Fax)
rdumont@specialolympics.sk.ca

•South Carolina Convoy on October 15,2011•Deborah Jacobs
•Special Olympics South Carolina
•1276 Assembly, St.
•Columbia, SC 29201
•1 (803) 772-1555 ext. 301
•djacobs@so-sc.org

•South Dakota•Todd Bradwisch•Special Olympics South Dakota
•305 W. 39th St.
•Sioux Falls, SD 57105
•1 (605) 331-4117
•1 (605) 331-4328 (Fax)
•tbradwisch@sosd.org
•
•Marty Ellis
•bigmarty@sdconvoy.com
•
•www.sdconvoy.org

• Texas
•Carol Lockwood
•clockwood@sotx.org
•
•Bruce Simms
•bsimms@sotx.org
•
•Victoria Salazar
•vsalazar@sotx.org

• Utah
•Lyn Rees
•Law Enforcement Torch Run Liaison
•Special Olympics Utah
•243 E 400 S, Suite 111
•Salt Lake City, UT 84111
•1 (801) 301-0238 (Cell)
•1 *801) 363-1524 (Fax)
•rees@sout.org

•Washington September 24, 2011
•Mary Do
•Special Olympics Washington
•2150 N. 107th Avenue, Ste. 220
•Seattle, WA 98133
•1 (800) 752-7559 ext 218
•1 (206) 361-8158 (Fax)
•mdo@sowa.org

•Wisconsin
•Julie Buedding
•Director of Development,
•Law Enforcement Torch Run
•Special Olympics Wisconsin
•2310 Crossroads Drive, Suite. 1000
•Madison, WI 53718
•1 (608) 442-5668
•1 (608) 222-3578 (Fax)
•jbuedding@specialolympicswisconsin.org
•Website

•Wyoming•Erin Gamroth
•Director of Special Events & Public Relations
•Special Olympics Wyoming
•350 West "A" Street, Ste 201
•Casper, WY 82601
•1 (307) 235-3062 1 (307) 235-3062
•1 (307) 235-3063 (Fax)
•egamroth@specialolympicswy.org

The biggest issue facing our country today....

2011-07-28T09:41:00.001-04:00

...and it's not the issue of raising the debt ceiling.

It's our US Infrastructure.

http://www.asce.org/economicstudy/#.TjFm061lRCo.blogger

Morning inspiration

2011-07-27T07:52:00.006-04:00

Sometimes, coffee just won't do...this is for all the hard working folks in the USA!

Women in Trucking Helps Create Forums to Recruit Women in Transportation Careers - Truckinginfo.com

2011-07-13T08:35:00.000-04:00

Women in Trucking Helps Create Forums to Recruit Women in Transportation Careers - Truckinginfo.com

The lack of qualified truck drivers is, and will be for the next 10 years, a recurring theme. Looking for work where pay will continue to go up? Get trained, and drive a truck.

Higher commodity prices the "new normal"? | Farms.com

2011-07-07T07:59:00.000-04:00

Good news for the future of farming?:

Higher commodity prices the "new normal"? Farms.com

Shade: A weapon against skin cancer, childhood obesity - USATODAY.com

2011-07-06T10:02:00.000-04:00

Shade: A weapon against skin cancer, childhood obesity - USATODAY.com

For over 35 years, we've manufactured shade cloth for nurseries and other projects in need of shade. As this article mentions, shade has become an integral part of design.
We're here to help...as long as you have the structure, we can custom-cut shade cloth for your application.

Coal covers

2011-07-01T10:22:00.003-04:00

Summer is hot! With heat comes the need for A/C...the usage for A/C increases the need for electric utilities to maintain their coal-generation plants with dry coal, as wet coal is unuseable.
We can help you keep your coal dry with our engineered tarps. Call us for your coal-pile specifications, and we will design the right-sized tarps for your needs.

Our tarps are waterproof, durable, UV resistant, and are able to be rolled-up and moved fairly easily...best of all they are cost effective.

So when its 110 degrees out and you crank the air...don't forget to thank us for helping your utility company keep its coal-dry!

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Mack Delivers Special Shuttle to Kennedy Space Center - Truckinginfo.com

2011-06-08T07:59:00.000-04:00

Mack Delivers Special Shuttle to Kennedy Space Center - Truckinginfo.com

Tarps for boom trucks...Boom Tarps

2011-05-31T09:56:00.005-04:00

Drywall season is coming alive again. Construction is starting to pick-up around the country and the economy is getting back on its feet.
Usually the companies to see the first sign of an economic recovery are drywall manufacturers and the folks that supply the drywall to the construction companies. We're guessing you've been holding on to these drywall tarps (we call them boom tarps) for a couple years through the rough economic times.

Call us to build your new tarpaulins. We custom build the common 24' booms, but also can build other common sizes for your needs. We build them to suit your needs...either all 18oz vinyl, or a lightweight combination with an 18oz/10oz combination.

We are your go-to solution for boom tarps, so give us a call so we can design yours today!
1-800-282-4277

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

A Diesel at Indy - Truckinginfo.com

2011-05-27T08:10:00.000-04:00

A Diesel at Indy - Truckinginfo.com

The problem with pre-made imported tarps

2011-04-07T11:09:00.007-04:00

We take pride in building our tarpaulins here in Tucker Georgia U.S.A. We've been building tarps so they last for over 30 years. We build them to last longer because we listen to the drivers that are tired of getting tarps that don't last.
The problem we are seeing today is that there are a lot of new drivers entering the market, and have no idea of the total cost of ownership of properly made equipment. Unless they talk to a seasoned driver or fleet manager, they are on there own to figure what equipment is needed. Take tarps for instance.
Not all products are made alike, and there is a reason some tarpaulins are cheaper than others. Here are a couple pictures of what we commonly see from imported tarps.

This is a flat fold hem using the very cheapest poly-pro material. What this means is that the grommets along the hem will never withstand the normal wear and tear that flatbed tarps encounter on a daily basis. This tarp is being repaired within 1 year of service. We build them with a triple-rolled hem with substantial webbing, and line the hem with rope. Our grommets are staying put. If our tarps come back for this type of repair, it is usually in the 3-5 year range.

This is the worst way to make a tarp...with the tail sewn into the tarp. Notice that the gussett (or rain flap) is part of the body of the tarp. The problem with this is when you pull your tarp over the load and you can't cover your flap, its because the tarp covering the load is also that gusset...there is nothing left to wrap around to tie-in the tail. Result: torn tarp at flap, wind-whip at flap. This tarp is being repaired within 1 year of service.
The way we build them is the tail is part of the body, not sewn-on, then we sew in the gusset...so if you want 26' of tarp, that's what you get...then we add in a 6" gusset to tie-in the tail. Normal usage for our tarps built our way is 2-5 years based on normal driver conditions.
Our repair facility charges $60 for the 1st hour, $55/hour thereafter. Cost to repair this tarp? $80.00. Not a good deal when you consider the original cost of this tarp is not that much less than our tarps. When you consider the total cost of ownership...which includes the drivers time down...it's not even close which tarps should be bought.

Bottom-line: BUY AMERICAN!

Have a safe-driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Views from the Mid America Trucking Show

2011-04-04T12:45:00.009-04:00

What a crowd! I am sure they broke attendance records this year. Cooperative weather ensured the Show-n-Shine a successful event. Thanks to all that stopped by our booth to say "hi".

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Mid America Truck Show!

2011-03-28T10:18:00.002-04:00

With apologies to Willie Nelson...we are "on the road again"...to Louisville for one of the best trucking shows of the year, the MATS . As always, we will be in the West Wing: booth #63248. Please come by and say "hi!" Have a safe driving day, Harp's Tarps

The Fuel Film

2011-03-21T11:31:00.000-04:00

The Fuel Film

Paul Harvey: God Made A Farmer Video

2011-03-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

Paul Harvey: God Made A Farmer Video

Introducing the Maxx-It-Ratchet..truckers unite!

2011-02-14T09:09:00.008-05:00

This product replaces the standard winch bar. We are introducing a safer solution to your standard winching of cargo straps. The Maxx-It-Ratchet takes the common ratchet design, and applies it to the heavy-haul transportation market. This ratchet fits over the winch, and stays on the winch as you "ratchet" the cargo straps down. No more slippage, no more winch-tip breakage, no more holing-out your winches...this is an all-around safer and more efficient design, anabling you to get your load secure quickly, and get on the road.

For more information on the Maxx-It-Ratchet, please click here to go to our website.

Take it to the max with the Maxx-It-Ratchet!

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

The weather outside is frightful...

2011-02-07T08:21:00.005-05:00

...but inside the shop it's warm, so time to repair those tarps for your grain carts and trailers!

Use our template to get started.

Have a great harvesting season!

Harps Tarps

Crushed car tarps

2011-01-11T11:55:00.004-05:00

Continuing our series of Tarps-In-Action...we thought we'd show you our latest crushed car tarp for step-decks! Because of the increase in metal...folks are hauling scrap again...and with it comes the need to make tarps that will function well with the trailer. We can buy our design for 48' & 52'flatbeds as well. We custom build it all right here in Tucker GA.

Let us know what we can do for you...

We have the "metal" to do your next project.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Truckers Volunteer to Honor Veterans with 200,000 Wreaths at Cemeteries | Transport Topics Online | Trucking, Freight Transportation and Logistics News

2010-12-23T08:20:00.000-05:00

Truckers Volunteer to Honor Veterans with 200,000 Wreaths at Cemeteries | Transport Topics Online | Trucking, Freight Transportation and Logistics News

And a light will lead them

2010-12-19T20:54:00.011-05:00

What better way to enjoy the holidays than a huge light display. Here in Georgia, there is such a place, at Lake Lanier Islands. With over 7000 lights, it can lighten even Scrooges heart! With hot chocolate, and roasting marshmallows on an open fire, the holiday mood is set.

We at Harp's Tarps, want to wish you and your family the happiest and healthiest of holidays.

P.S.: We will be closed on Christmas Eve and on New Years Eve, so our employees can be with their families.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Wreaths Across America Getting Strong Support from Trucking - Truckinginfo.com

2010-12-10T12:11:00.000-05:00

Wreaths Across America Getting Strong Support from Trucking - Truckinginfo.com

US Capitol Christmas Tree begins long journey | ajc.com

2010-11-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

US Capitol Christmas Tree begins long journey | ajc.com

Total cost of ownership

2010-11-02T07:36:00.006-04:00

We have a tarp repair shop inside our facility, where we will fix pretty much any tarp a trucker has, to help him get back on the road.

Over the years (and for some reason recently)we've noticed less of our tarps being repaired, but more of other folk's tarps requiring fixing.

Our company offers a fair value for the initial cost of the tarp...we're competitive, but not always the cheapest. This is where the hard lesson comes in for the buyer that is only interested in the lowest price.
That buyer does not consider the total cost of ownership of the life of his tarps. If you buy our tarps and get them repaired 2 times a year for normal wear and tear, but you buy a similar tarp just because it's cheaper...and end up getting it repaired 5 or 6 times a year because of quality issues (tail ripping off, grommets/D rings pulling out, thread running etc)...was it really cheaper?

We charge $55.00 for the first hour of repair...for the customer that does not consider quality in his/her equation...the total cost of ownership is going to be much higher than the initial cost.

Some folks think a tarp is a tarp...but there is a difference. We've been building quality tarps for over 30 years here in Tucker Georgia, and like I said, we do repairs as well for $55/hour.

We'd personally like to offer you one of our tarps to save you money over the long haul.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

There's corn in them thar hills!

2010-09-21T18:33:00.007-04:00

I recently got back from a great business

trip that took me through the heart of our country.

A place where Cornhuskers rule, and beef is what's for dinner.

I'm talking of course, about Nebraska. The main event was the Husker Harvest Days Ag Show (largest working farm show in the country), but also the corn-fed beef eatin' shacks that side of the Mississippi were open for business!

Many thanks for the great hospitality on my road-trip through the Heartland. I surely found what is at the end of the rainbow.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Stepdeck Tarps

2010-09-03T15:32:00.002-04:00

Here's the problem: making a standard lumber tarp work for a stepdeck.

Here's our solution: customized stepdeck tarps.

A new feature to our custom selection can be found by clicking here .

On that page, you can create the size you want to get the maximum use out of your tarps, whether you are hauling 8' loads or 10' loads...you configure it...submit it, and we'll get back to you with your price.

The best thing about a 3-piece tarp is less weight that wrestling with 2 big tarps that you end up tucking here and there.

Have a great driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Tarp Surfing

2010-09-01T07:00:00.002-04:00

Increased Investment in Rural Transportation System Key to Keeping Freight Moving - Truckinginfo.com

2010-08-31T08:51:00.000-04:00

Increased Investment in Rural Transportation System Key to Keeping Freight Moving - Truckinginfo.com

A scout is prepared

2010-08-17T13:24:00.003-04:00

This summer, my son and I just finished his first year as a cub scout, and we were both indoctrinated into the Boy Scout oath and laws that instill many parent and child with the values to succeed in life.

This year was the 100th year celebration for the BSA, and their float was judged number 1 in the HOF Parade (mentioned in previous post). Their Jamboree to celebrate the 100 year anniversary event was in Ft Hill Virginia this year and was host to over 100,000 scouts for the event.

Harp's Tarps was fortunate to be involved in a small way by providing ground covers for their tented events throughout the Jamboree.

After the event, the tarps we provided will be re-purposed and re-used throughout many of the troops as future tent footprints, cooking shelters, and even Habitat for Humanity work shelters and drop cloths.

The #2 reason for joining Scouts is to make a lasting impression. As a leading tarpaulin manufacturer...that is the goal for all of our customers.

Have a great driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Truck pictures from Hall of Fame parade

2010-08-08T15:05:00.011-04:00

Every year I take an annual trek to Canton Ohio to see, and to enjoy the Football Hall of Fame activities. here are some photos from the parade. Enjoy!

Reuse, re-purpose, recycle...remarkable!

2010-08-01T10:44:00.004-04:00

What is re-purpose? It is re-creating material that would otherwise end up in a landfill, by extending its useful life as a different product.

Take tarp material, we are always trying new ways to reuse un-used materials. Here is one product that came out of this brainstorming:

Mesh material lets water and other particles sift through it...like sand...like sand and water...at a beach!

...therefore, we've created the Tucker Tote. Its high-strength abrasive-resistant weave makes for a durable tote that can be made most any size to fit all those beach toys and beach blankets. It's multi-color too, so each one is unique in that it comes out a different color pattern.

The mesh material lets air flow through so your wet items get dry, and lets the sandy items you put in the bag sift through so you're not carrying the beach back home with you.

These totes are made when the scrap material is available, and are priced per size. Give us a call, or email your request for our Tucker Tote.

Thanks for reading, have a great day!

Harp's Tarps

'Motor Carrier Protection Act of 2010: Are you in the know?'

2010-07-22T14:57:00.000-04:00

'Motor Carrier Protection Act of 2010: Are you in the know?'

MAIL's HERE!

2010-06-21T07:38:00.003-04:00

I remember back in the day...when I was still wet behind the ears...waiting on the front porch for the mailman to make his daily mail stop to our house. I would run as fast as I could, excitedly yelling "MAIL"S HERE!"...I'd pull open the mailbox lid, and peer into the box like I was looking for land through a telescope. I'd rifle through the letters in hopes of finding that one that had my name on it.
My Mom could tell the results of my experience by how fast I came back to the porch.

Well, fast-forward a few years...today I am excited again, because our new catalog has come in the mail.

Actually...times have changed so much that it's not really mail anymore...it's more of a click and print experience.

You see, if you go to our home page: www.HarpsTarps.com ...you can click the picture of our catalog, and through the magic of Adobe software...can transform that "click" into a 29 page catalog full of 30 years of what we do.

To be sure, we have hard-copies that we will mail out on occasion, but in this era of I-need-it-now information...this click-to-print technology is the bees knees.

So feel free to browse through our website, bookmark us if you'd like...but then click a copy of our catalog to take along for the ride. Maybe even put it in the mailbox for an old friend...

...and listen for that calling: "MAIL's HERE!"

Have a safe day,

Harp's Tarps

Tarps for tent footprints

2010-04-22T20:21:00.005-04:00

Spring is in the air...what better time to go camping! But what if it rains...what if the ground is wet, and when the ground gets cold at night, what do I do?

Scouts use them, avid campers use them...they are tent footprints...they are the layer between your tent and the damp ground. It is the difference of having a great night sleep, and not sleeping. But most use cheap blue poly tarps that end up in the landfill after one use. Why not buy one that will last longer than your tent?

We build great tarps that are made from 18oz vinyl. These durable tarps are triple-row hemmed with grommets for superior strength. The one pictured is a 10'x10', and it is perfect for a 9'x8' 2 person tent...but we build all sizes for all size tents. rule of thumb is you want at least 1' around the whole tent.

You will have a great camping trip. And will be the envy of the campground.

...especially if it rains!

Have a great camping day!

Harp's Tarps

Pictures from the Mid American Truck Show

2010-04-02T10:33:00.004-04:00

Thanks all for stopping by our booth. As always, it was a very successful week of helping folks understand why our tarps consistently outperform the competition.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Why we don't sell imported rubber bungees

2010-03-18T11:26:00.004-04:00

This is an imported strap. We don't know if an eyeball was put out by it, or if the tarp got tore up because of the loss of load securement. What we do know is this is why we only will sell American-made rubber bungees.

Any strap can claim they are EPDM-compliant... the rubber quality that comes (mainly from Sri Lanka) is an inferior rubber polymer compared to American-made rubber.

The strength of the American-made rubber withstands the harsh environments that is part of this business.

You pay for what you get, insist on American-made bungees.

Your eyes will thank you.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

How not to repair a tarp

2010-03-17T13:42:00.004-04:00

We have a full repair facility here in Tucker GA. We see a lot of imaginative ways of truckers repairing there own tarps to get from point A to point B until they can leave their tarps for a professional repair.

Most of the time, we see interesting ways to use duct tape, but here is another use for nails that we hadn't thought of. :-)

If you're driving through Atlanta, and you have a hole in your tarp...come see us and we'll repair it for you. We promise to use HH66 glue!

Have a safe driving day!

Harps Tarps

Roll Tarp Aluminum tarp stops

2010-03-16T12:32:00.003-04:00

Here is our part #RTTS1407.

It is an easy-off cast aluminum tarp stop.

If you have open top trailers that utilize side-to-side tarping systems, we can help you
with the replacement tarps and the replacement tarp stops.

Please call for a quote!

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

It's like modular dude!

2010-02-19T13:10:00.005-05:00

Tubular, modular, circular, hexagonal.

You name it...we can do it! Just call, email or fax.

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Side kit tarps and covered wagon tarps

2010-01-22T12:46:00.006-05:00

Yep, we make 'em.

We need the width, length and rise (from top of tailgate to top of bow) to get you a quote.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Tree tarps for under (and over) your tree!

2009-12-21T14:34:00.004-05:00

Need a Christmas present for the tree hauler at your company? We make quality tree tarps of many shapes and sizes. This particular one is wrapped around Red Oaks, and is our premium black and tan tree tarp. It is stocked at a standard 24 x 60 size with a row of grommet bands along the length. WE also sell USA-quality rubber bungies to hold these tarps on the load.

Please call us for all your tree tarp needs.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-18T18:59:00.001-05:00

As we take a break from our day-to-day activities, we'd like to wish each and every one of you the very best of Holidays and our best wishes to you for a Happy New Year! 2010! WOW!

We will be on Holiday break from Dec 25th-Jan 3rd.

Thank you so much for making Harp's Tarps part of your day-to-day activities this year.

Have a safe driving day.

Harp's Tarps

Coal cover

2009-12-10T15:49:00.000-05:00

Got some coal you need covered? We can do it!

Have a safe driving day,

Harp's Tarps

Tarps in action!

2009-12-09T13:11:00.001-05:00

Wind barrier for oil platform.

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Our new asphalt tarp design

2009-12-04T10:36:00.000-05:00

Do you use asphalt tarps with fold-down flaps? If so, you understand the pain involved of flipping the flaps back up on the load before winding that tarp back up. For years, drivers have lost hauling time and sanity because of this problem that has not been addressed properly.

We have changed that. Don't let our new design "shock" you.

With our new design, we've incorporated the location and shape of the flaps with strategically placed
shock/stretch cord to eliminate lost hauling time and your sanity.

After your load is covered, simply pull down on the flaps and secure them with rubber bungees (preferably purchased through us: use this link ). Before un-tarping the load, simply unhook your rubber straps from the bed, and Voila!, through the magic of reverse gravity (not really...it's the shock/stretch cord tension)...the flaps will return to the top of the tarp and will correctly wind-up into the roller.

Problem solved...headaches gone.

It's a shock-ing revelation.

Call us today for pricing and availability @ 1-800-282-4277 and get yours today as this new tarp is "tailgate tested...tailgate approved!"

Have a safe driving day,

Your friends at Harp's Tarps

A smile for Turkey Day!

2009-11-25T08:25:00.000-05:00

A trucker came into a truck stop cafe and placed his order.
He said, "I want three flat tires, a pair of headlights, and a pair of running boards. "

The brand new waitress, not wanting to appear clueless, went to the kitchen and said to the cook, "This trucker out there just ordered three flat tires, a pair of headlights and a pair of running Boards." "What does he think this place is, a truck shop?"
"No" the cook said. "Three flat tires mean three pancakes, a pair of headlights is two eggs sunny side up, and running boards are 2 slices of crisp bacon."
"Oh, OK!" said the waitress. She thought about it for a moment and then spooned up a bowl of beans and gave it to the customer.

The trucker asked, "What are the beans for missy?"

The waitress replied: "I thought while you were waiting for the flat tires, headlights and running boards, you might as well gas up!"

:-)

We wish you and your family a safe Holiday.

Harp's Tarps

Tree tarps

2009-11-20T08:00:00.001-05:00

Now through May is tree hauling season and we build the perfect tree tarps to haul your loads. Please call us at 1-800-282-4277 and request a quote...you're trees will thank you!

Have a great driving day!

Harp's Tarps

The art of custom tarp building

2009-10-30T08:49:00.000-04:00

We pride ourselves on the creativity of developing tarp designs for any idea. It's what gets our crack sales team up in the morning. We love helping our customers!

Here, we are building 65'x65' tarps for a customers' application. You might notice the forklift in the background in assistance. For over 30 years, we've figured out how to get it done!

If you have a special application...give us a call and let us figure out the best way to design a tarpaulin solution for you!

Be safe,

Harp's Tarps

Why our tarps last longer

2009-10-27T18:54:00.000-04:00

This is RF (or radio-frequency) welding, and is how we've built our vinyl tarps here in America for over 30 years. Two pieces of vinyl are placed under a bar that comes down and presses against the fabric resting on the table. High frequency waves are passed through the area where the bar and table...this is where the weld takes place. This RF field causes the molecules in the vinyl to move and get hot. The combination of the heat under pressure creates the weld.

Building tarps this way is more deliberate than the standard hot-air weld that most tarp companies use today. The method in which we weld creates a stronger bond because it essentially turns 2 pieces of vinyl into one piece...leaving incredible strength and watertight seal. Essential for the quality our customers expect from our tarps.

Let us prove to you that we can make a tarp better than what you are using today. Call us today and we'll build a tarp worthy of your hard-earned dollar.

Keep safe,

Harp's Tarps

Salt spreader covers

2009-10-15T09:33:00.000-04:00

Ahh...a chill is in the air. Then comes the snow, and the ice and the slush...

...and the salt.

Cover your salt spreader with an 18oz fitted vinyl tarp, and extend the life of your spreader when it's not clearing the roads. We build any tarp to your specs, most any color, and at very reasonable prices.

Whether you're a dealer looking for an add-on sale, or and end user that cares about his/her equipment, we can help! Call for quotes at 1-800-282-4277 and say you want to cover your salt!

Stay safe,

Harp's Tarps

Rolltarps...roll tarps...side-to-side tarps

2009-10-01T14:40:00.000-04:00

Grain, scrap, wood chips...if you haul these, you are very familiar with roll tarps. We've been building high quality roll tarps for years, and if you'd like to have us price one for you, follow this link:

http://www.harpstarps.com/quote.htm

Call, email, or fax your dimensions from template that matches what you need, and we'll be glad to give you a competitive quote.

Note, as of now we don't carry the systems for roll tarps, we focus on what we do best, which is building a perfect replacement roll tarp for your trailer.

Be safe!

Harp's Tarps

Lower prices on tarp accessories!

2009-10-01T08:36:00.000-04:00

Giving help where it's needed, we want to extend special savings we have on all our flatbed tarping accessories.

This link will take you to the savings: http://www.harpstarps.com/rubberstraps.php

One note: the rubber bungies we sell are only US-made. We do not support or sell the imported rubber bungies due to the short life-span, and dryrot that is common from imported rubber.

Please call us at 800-282-4277 or order direct from our website. Either way, we are here to serve you!

Be safe,

Harp's Tarps
www.harpstarps.com

Hauling exotic cars

2009-08-31T14:49:00.001-04:00

No peeking!

USA-made fabric available

2009-08-06T08:04:00.000-04:00

Sometimes to customers, price is not an issue when you can offer a higher quality product. This is why we've decided to stock a few premium high-end lumber and steel tarps.

These tarps are made of Seaman 18oz vinyl, which is a USA-made vinyl, the highest quality fabric available, and is more durable than import material.
Also, we've made these with stainless steel D rings to withstand harsh climates. These D rings will not corrode or wear down compared to a standard galvanized D ring.

Combined with the above standard way we build our tarps here in Tucker Georgia, this option of a premium high quality tarp will appeal to some owner operators, or truck-owners that are proud of what they own, and take care of their trucking accessories, and those who want to buy 100% American-made products.

Pricing is $950/set of SL18 or SLLW-8 (18/14), and $600/set of SS18

Here is what we have in stock:

4) SLLW-8 SEAMAN black
2) SL18 SEAMAN Maroon
2) SL18 SEAMAN Blue

2) SS18 SEAMAN Maroon
2) SS18 SEAMAN black
2 SS18 SEAMAN blue

This are available for immediate shipment or pick-up for the discerning buyer. Someone who wants to buy all American products, someone that is tired of D ring corrosion that eats through and discolors the tarp....and someone that feels cost is no option over high quality material and workmanship.

John Beule
Sales Manager
Harp's Tarps
direct: 770-255-0823

Vinyl Repair Kits

2009-07-17T08:27:00.001-04:00

Efficiency for over the road haulers has become critical in these economic times. If their tarps are damaged, that leads to damaged products and refusals of loads.

We offer the best tarp repair kit in the industry. Part # KIT on our website, contains 1 quart of HH66 vinyl cement (the gold standard glue), 1 pint of thinner to clean the area so the vinyl patching remains strong, 1 square yard of 18oz vinyl (3'x3'), shop rags for cleanup and full instructions for your drivers. For a limited time, the black and blue kits come with our exlusive tarp tape for temporary applications at no extra charge.

All items can also be purchased seperately.

Having a kit in the shop will give you peace of mind knowing that you can quickly repair a tarp on the fly. So you don't damage that cargo.

Thanks for reading. Have a safe driving day!

The shades of shade cloth

2009-06-24T10:40:00.001-04:00

From left to right: 55%, 47%, 30%

Shade cloth can be used for a variety of reasons...from shading cattle in TX ,to Tomato plants in NJ. We have samples of the percentages of shade cloth we offer that we will gladely send at your request, but here are pictures of the shade cloth that can also be used as a reference.

From left to right: 73%, 63%

From left to right: 95%, 80%

Thanks for reading. Have a great driving day!

Vinyl tarp color choices

2009-06-16T07:52:00.001-04:00

We have multiple colors in 18oz vinyl. This comes in handy if you are want to identify your tarps. We also stencil upon request, and because we RF weld our seams...we can even embed your company name and phone number into the tarps for an additional charge.

The benefit to all these identification options is so that your purchased tarps stay with you and don't "disappear"!

Thanks for reading. Have a safe driving day!

Challenging application

2009-06-05T14:34:00.001-04:00

Hatch cover.

Another problem solved with our tarps!

2009-05-15T13:55:00.001-04:00

Steamroller.

Mighty Mesh is mighty tough!

2009-04-29T14:43:00.000-04:00

This is our strongest and most durable mesh material. It works great for customers looking for a non-waterproof but durable mesh tarp, such as roll-off applications, side-to-side applications, or even some dump truck applications.

This material is fast become the material of choice for the solid waste and recycling industry. If you have an application that would benefit from a more durable material than what you are currently using, then give us a call for a quote. We custom-make all sizes.

1-800-282-4277

Have a safe driving day!

Harp's Tarps

Tarps in action!

2009-04-14T09:24:00.000-04:00

To make this a true community blog, we are asking for your pictures of our tarps being used in your applications...we call it: "Tarps In Action"

Please forward your pictures to: john@harpstarps.com for consideration.

Thank you!

The many uses of shade cloth

2009-03-31T16:19:00.001-04:00

We primarily make shade cloth for plant nurseries, but there are literally hundreds of other applications that are limited only by one's imagination...from covering a boat lift to prevent spider excrement...to fence barriers to prevent wild boars from venturing into streams (like I said...we hear it all).

Pictured here is an application where the customer needed to create a wind barrier for an outdoor music concert.

If you have an application that requires shade or a barrier, look at our shade cloth...it might be what solves the problem.

Thanks for reading. Have a safe driving day.

More pictures from the truck show

2009-03-20T14:56:00.000-04:00

March 19th we're at the show!

2009-03-19T10:48:00.000-04:00

West Wing, booth #63248. Louisville KY.

Mid America Truck Show.

Come see us!

Mattress cover lowers operating costs

2009-03-06T12:35:00.000-05:00

Many fleets are finding ways to cut costs. Mattress replacement costs are one area that can be improved upon.

For companies that employ slip-seating, or have a high turnover of drivers...our mattress cover will significantly reduce your maintenance costs. Our cover is a 60/40 blend that covers the mattress like a pillowcase. It fits all standard mattresses for sleepers. Not only does it reduce your mattress replacement costs, but when covered over a new mattress as it is installed in the sleeper, it will help reduce allergens, and increases the life of the mattress by acting as a barrier.

Our part # is MC4280 (42" wide x 80" long) and is sold 25/case. Please call our office and ask for our mattress covers. It will be the best investment you can make.

Thanks for reading. Have a safe driving day.

Our universal motor design

2009-03-05T14:40:00.001-05:00

Here is a closer view of our GHS 2601-H motor. Here you can see why it is a universal-fit motor to any mount: 5 bolt hole pattern to match with existing mount bracket, and longer shaft with 2 pre-drilled holes for adaptability for different roller bar setups.

Our motor is reliable up to 28' long. This motor has greater durability than other motors in its class. In five separate tests a driver could cover and uncover 10 loads per day, six days per week, for over four years.

Thanks for reading. Have a great driving day!

2009 Mid America Truck Show

2009-02-26T07:57:00.000-05:00

We will have a booth at this fantastic truck show in Louisville KY March 19-21. Please follow this link: http://www.truckingshow.com/ for all the current information. Our booth is #63248, so please stop by and say hi!

Thanks for reading, have a great driving day!

New product: Tarp Tape

2009-02-23T14:25:00.000-05:00

Let's say you hauling a mission-critical load that is tarped. You make a routine stop to check your tarped load and discover a small tear in the tarp. Now, instead of praying for sunny weather to your destination, or trying to patch the tarp with vinyl cement while it's on the load, you reach in your tool kit and pull out Tarp Tape.

Tarp Tape is akin to the temporary tire (doughnut) in your car's trunk. It's meant to get you out of a jam until you can properly repair or replace your tire. Tarp Tape is a temporary patch that when applied on both sides of the tear, forms a waterproof seal that gets you to a shop to properly patch your tarpaulin.

The other great advantage to Tarp Tape is it will not leave a sticky residue when you pull it off to do repairs, making it a breeze to repair the tear correctly with vinyl cement.

If you have a poly tarp that needs patching, this is the product to use, and vinyl cement will eat through the poly material.

We sell Tarp Tape in blue or black. Folks tell us they like to use opposite colors of their tarps, so they can easily identify the location of the tear when they go and properly repair the tarpaulin.

Tarp Tape is sold individually, or in case lots of 25 pieces. To order, please call us at 1-800-282-4277, and tell us you want Tarp Tape.

When you order your tarp tape, please keep in mind that we sell the more permanent HH-66 vinyl cement kits with vinyl for correctly repairing over-the-road tarpaulins.

Thanks for reading, have a great driving day.