A strong flatbed tarp delivers coverage that matches the load, a drop deep enough to protect its sides, and securement features suited to repeated transport. The CARTMAN 20×27+6×8 is a strong all-around choice for carriers covering large cargo: it has 18-ounce waterproof vinyl, six-foot drops, reinforced edges, padded D-rings, and perimeter grommets. This lineup also includes lighter 14-ounce options, smaller covers, and tarps with deeper drops or multiple rows of D-rings.
Those differences matter because tarp size and weight affect both fit and handling. Compare the actual cover dimensions with your load, then consider how much side coverage you need and how you will secure the tarp.
The best match is the one that covers the cargo without leaving a poor fit or unnecessary material to handle.
The CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp is the best overall choice in this group for flatbed trailer cargo. Its 20-by-27-foot cover has six-foot drops and an 8-by-6-foot flap or tail, while its 18-ounce waterproof vinyl is backed by reinforced edges, padded D-rings, and full-perimeter grommets. That combination suits large loads needing substantial coverage and multiple securing options.
If a lighter 14-ounce tarp or a different drop depth better fits your load, compare the ranked alternatives before choosing.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts 18-ounce waterproof vinyl, six-foot drops, and 8-by-6-foot flap cover substantial cargo, with reinforced edges, padded D-rings, and perimeter grommets.
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Best 4-Foot DropUS Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp
The 16-by-27-foot cover has a four-foot drop, heat-sealed seams, two rows of D-rings, and 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester.
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18-Ounce OptionThis 16-by-27-foot tarp uses 18-ounce PVC and has a four-foot drop with an 8-by-4-foot flap for cargo coverage.
View on Amazon- Two-Tarp Pack Mytee 20×27 Lumber Tarp
- Deepest Drop Mytee 24×27 Lumber Tarp
Compare Flatbed Tarp Options
| # | Product | Dimensions | Material | Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber TarpBest Overall | 27"L x 20"W | Heavy Duty Vinyl, Waterproof Vinyl | 20×27+6×8 | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel TarpBest 4-Foot Drop | 326.31"L | Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride | 16 Foot x 27 Foot | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. SUMORISE 16×27 Lumber Tarp18-Ounce Option | 324"L x 192"W | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | 18oz-16' x 27' (4' Drop) | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Mytee 20×27 Lumber TarpTwo-Tarp Pack | 10"L x 10"W | Superlight 14 Oz | 2 – Pack | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Mytee 24×27 Lumber TarpDeepest Drop | 10"L x 10"W | Superlight 14 Oz | 1 – Pack | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. US Cargo Control 20×16 Steel TarpCold-weather steel-tarp handling | 16"L x 20"W | Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | 20' x 16' (6' drop) | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Mytee 16×27 Steel TarpLighter-weight steel-tarp handling | 324"L x 192"W | Vinyl | 1 – Pack | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. EFQKLPY 16×27 Flatbed Tarp14-ounce full-size trailer cover | 323.99"L x 192"W | — | 16'x27' | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Wowangce 20×16 Steel TarpReinforced smaller steel-tarp loads | 29.13"L x 20.08"W | PVC-coated polyester | 20 x 16 ft | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. GliCraft 12×16 Smoke TarpCompact smoke-tarp coverage | 144"L x 192"W | — | 12 x 16 ft | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Tarp For Flatbed Trailer

#1 · Best Overall
1. CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp
- Dimensions: 27"L x 20"W
- Material: Heavy Duty Vinyl, Waterproof Vinyl
- Size: 20×27+6×8
Best for: Large lumber-load weather cover.
Why it ranks #1: Its 18-ounce waterproof vinyl, six-foot drops, and 8-by-6-foot flap cover substantial cargo, with reinforced edges, padded D-rings, and perimeter grommets.
An 18-ounce vinyl body paired with a 20-by-27-foot footprint and six-foot drops gives this CARTMAN tarp substantial coverage for flatbed lumber loads. Its eight-by-six-foot flap extends protection at the tail, helping shield cargo from rain, snow, wind, and sun during transport.
The waterproof vinyl material is specified for weather protection, while the reinforced edges and padded D-rings address stress where the tarp is secured. Full-perimeter grommets provide additional tie-down points, giving drivers options to fasten it with straps, hooks, or ropes. The six-foot drops and eight-by-six-foot tail flap extend coverage around a broad load, but the 20-by-27-foot body is best matched to cargo that needs that larger footprint.
- 18-ounce waterproof vinyl construction
- 20-by-27-foot tarp with six-foot drops
- Eight-by-six-foot flap/tail
- Reinforced edges, padded D-rings, and perimeter grommets
- Its 20-by-27-foot footprint may be oversized for smaller loads.
Skip it if you need a 16-by-27-foot tarp with four-foot drops; US Cargo Control model LST16274-BLK has those dimensions.
Choose this CARTMAN for larger flatbed lumber loads needing an 18-ounce waterproof cover, six-foot drops, and tail-flap coverage. Its substantial footprint and deep drops make it a less suitable match for compact cargo or shallow coverage needs.
Full product details
| Brand | CARTMAN |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Fabric Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Included Components | Lumber Tarp |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 27"L x 20"W |
| Manufacturer | CARTMAN |
| Part Number | CM-2027-6X8 |
| Material | Heavy Duty Vinyl, Waterproof Vinyl |
| Model Number | CM-2027-6X8 |
| Dimensions | 27"L x 20"W |
| Recommended Uses | Cargo Protection, Flatbed Truck Cover, Lumber Transport, Weather Protection |
| Size | 20×27+6×8 |
Listed on Amazon as: CARTMAN 20' x 27' Flatbed Truck 18 Oz Lumber Tarp with 6 FT Drop – Black
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#2 · Best 4-Foot Drop
2. US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp
- Dimensions: 326.31"L
- Material: Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride
- Size: 16 Foot x 27 Foot
Best for: Long-load lightweight steel tarp.
Why it ranks #2: The 16-by-27-foot cover has a four-foot drop, heat-sealed seams, two rows of D-rings, and 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester.
The 16-by-27-foot US Cargo Control tarp combines a long flatbed footprint with four-foot drops and 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester. Its lighter material is described as easier to lift, position, and remove than standard 18-ounce tarps, supporting a more manageable covering workflow for long cargo.
The PVC-coated polyester is identified as weather-tough, and heat-sealed seams add a specified barrier in the tarp’s construction. Two rows of D-rings and grommets provide tie-down points for securing it around cargo. The four-foot drop covers the sides without the deeper reach of six-foot configurations, while the 16-by-27-foot body suits longer loads. Its weight is reported differently across the listing, so the material and dimensions are the clearer handling and fit details to use.
- 16-by-27-foot dimensions
- Four-foot drops
- 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester
- Two rows of D-rings and grommets
- Four-foot drops provide less side coverage than six-foot-drop configurations.
Skip it if you need six-foot drops for more side coverage; US Cargo Control model LST20166-BLK specifies that deeper drop.
This US Cargo Control tarp suits buyers covering long flatbed cargo who value the listed lighter handling of 14-ounce material. Its four-foot drops are a meaningful limit for taller loads that require deeper coverage down the sides.
Full product details
| Brand | US Cargo Control |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 326.31"L |
| Item Weight | 58 pounds |
| Manufacturer | US Cargo Control |
| Part Number | LST16274-BLK |
| Material | Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride |
| Dimensions | 326.31"L |
| Recommended Uses | Flatbed Trucking, Covering Machinery, Protecting Flooring, General Outdoor Use |
| Size | 16 Foot x 27 Foot |
Listed on Amazon as: US Cargo Control 16 Feet x 27 Feet Steel Tarp, 4 Foot Drop, Lightweight 14 Oz Weather-Tough PVC-Coated Polyester Flatbed Tarp, Reliable Protection for Flatbed Trailer Cargo, Black
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#3 · 18-Ounce Option
3. SUMORISE 16×27 Lumber Tarp
- Dimensions: 324"L x 192"W
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Size: 18oz-16' x 27' (4' Drop)
Best for: 18-ounce four-foot-drop coverage.
Why it ranks #3: This 16-by-27-foot tarp uses 18-ounce PVC and has a four-foot drop with an 8-by-4-foot flap for cargo coverage.
SUMORISE combines an 18-ounce PVC tarp with a 16-by-27-foot body and four-foot drops, providing broad flatbed coverage for standard or oversized cargo. Its eight-by-four-foot rear flap extends the cover over the load’s tail, where the listing says it helps keep moisture and debris from entering.
The industrial-grade 18-ounce PVC is identified as waterproof, supporting weather protection for cargo in transit. At 16 by 27 feet, the tarp is specified to cover large loads, and the eight-by-four-foot flap adds rear coverage without requiring a separate tail piece according to the listing. Reinforced D-rings provide attachment points for securing the cover. The four-foot drop is a useful boundary to check against cargo height and desired side coverage.
- 18-ounce waterproof PVC material
- 16-by-27-foot dimensions
- Four-foot drops and an eight-by-four-foot rear flap
- Reinforced D-rings
- Four-foot drops offer less side coverage than six-foot-drop tarps.
Skip it if you need six-foot drops for deeper side coverage; US Cargo Control model LST20166-BLK specifies a six-foot drop.
Choose the SUMORISE for a 16-by-27-foot flatbed load where 18-ounce waterproof PVC, reinforced D-rings, and rear-flap coverage suit the job. Its four-foot drops are the key fit boundary for loads needing greater side coverage.
Full product details
| Brand | SUMORISE |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 324"L x 192"W |
| Manufacturer | SUMORISE |
| Part Number | 100014 |
| Material | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) |
| Model Number | 16' x 27' (4' Drop) |
| Dimensions | 324"L x 192"W |
| Size | 18oz-16' x 27' (4' Drop) |

#4 · Two-Tarp Pack
4. Mytee 20×27 Lumber Tarp
- Dimensions: 10"L x 10"W
- Material: Superlight 14 Oz
- Size: 2 – Pack
Best for: Two-tarp lumber hauling set.
Why it ranks #4: The two-pack supplies 20-by-27-foot tarps with six-foot drops, three rows of D-rings, heat-sealed seams, and reinforced hems.
This Mytee Products listing supplies two 20-by-27-foot tarps, each with six-foot drops and a six-by-eight-foot flap/tail. The two-tarp format can serve buyers needing matching covers for multiple loads, while the 14-ounce superlight vinyl offers a lighter material specification than 18-ounce tarp options.
Heat-sealed seams are described as making the tarps waterproof, addressing a key concern when covering cargo in wet weather. Reinforced hems use two-inch fluorescent webbing and double stitching, adding specified reinforcement around the edges. Three rows of D-rings provide securing points across each tarp, while six-foot drops and the six-by-eight-foot tail extend coverage around lumber loads. Because this is a two-pack, buyers should plan to store and handle two large covers rather than a single tarp.
- Two tarps included
- 20-by-27-foot size with six-foot drops
- Six-by-eight-foot flap/tail
- Heat-sealed seams and reinforced hems
- The two-pack requires storing and handling two large tarps.
Skip it if you need one 24-by-27-foot tarp with eight-foot drops; Mytee Products model SLLT lists that larger format.
Choose this Mytee two-pack when matching 20-by-27-foot lumber tarps, six-foot drops, and multiple tie-down rows suit your loads. It is a less convenient fit if you only need one cover or lack room to store two large tarps.
Full product details
| Brand | Mytee Products |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 10"L x 10"W |
| Item Weight | 148 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Mytee Products |
| Part Number | SLLT6FTx2-PK |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Not applicable. |
| Material | Superlight 14 Oz |
| Model Number | SLLT6FTx2-PK |
| Dimensions | 10"L x 10"W |
| Recommended Uses | Camping |
| Size | 2 – Pack |
Listed on Amazon as: Mytee Products 2 Pack Lightweight 14 Ounce Black Lumber Tarp 20 FT x 27 FT with 6 FT Drop for Flatbed Truck Trailer – Superlight & Waterproof Vinyl Tarp for Flatbed Cargo Protection
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#5 · Deepest Drop
5. Mytee 24×27 Lumber Tarp
- Dimensions: 10"L x 10"W
- Material: Superlight 14 Oz
- Size: 1 – Pack
Best for: Wide, deep-drop lumber coverage.
Why it ranks #5: Its 24-by-27-foot cover has eight-foot drops, an 8-by-8-foot flap or tail, and three rows of D-rings.
A 24-by-27-foot body and eight-foot drops give this Mytee Products tarp an expansive coverage format for large flatbed lumber loads. Its eight-by-eight-foot flap/tail extends protection at the rear, while the 14-ounce superlight vinyl combines broad dimensions with a lighter-weight material specification.
The 24-by-27-foot dimensions provide a larger coverage area than the listed 20-by-27-foot and 16-by-27-foot formats, making cargo footprint an important selection factor. Eight-foot drops extend farther down the sides, and the eight-by-eight-foot flap/tail adds substantial rear coverage. Three rows of D-rings offer securing points around the load. The listing describes the vinyl as superlight yet tough, but does not provide seam or waterproof-construction details for this model.
- 24-by-27-foot tarp dimensions
- Eight-foot drops
- Eight-by-eight-foot flap/tail
- Three rows of D-rings
- The listing does not specify seam construction or a waterproof rating.
Skip it if you need stated waterproof construction and heat-sealed seams; Mytee Products model SLLT6FTx2-PK specifies those features.
This Mytee tarp suits large lumber loads needing a 24-by-27-foot cover, eight-foot drops, and a broad tail flap. Check that its substantial dimensions fit the cargo and note that seam and waterproof details are not specified in the listing.
Full product details
| Brand | Mytee Products |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 10"L x 10"W |
| Item Weight | 84 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Mytee Products |
| Part Number | SLLT |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Not applicable. |
| Material | Superlight 14 Oz |
| Model Number | SLLT |
| Dimensions | 10"L x 10"W |
| Size | 1 – Pack |
Listed on Amazon as: Mytee Products Black Superlight 14oz Flatbed Trailer Lumber Tarp 24×27 (8' Drop)
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#6
6. US Cargo Control 20×16 Steel Tarp
- Dimensions: 16"L x 20"W
- Material: Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Size: 20' x 16' (6' drop)
Best for: Cold-weather steel-tarp handling.
Why it ranks #6: The 20-by-16-foot tarp provides six-foot drops, 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester, heat-sealed seams, and multiple rows of D-rings.
A stated cold-crack resistance of minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit distinguishes this US Cargo Control steel tarp for buyers hauling in cold conditions. The 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester weighs 44 pounds in the listing and measures 20 by 16 feet, with a six-foot drop for deeper side coverage.
The PVC-coated polyester is specified as fade- and tear-resistant, with cold-crack resistance down to minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, supporting use across challenging weather conditions. Heat-sealed seams and reinforced edges address construction durability, while two-inch D-rings, wear pads, and grommets along all four sides provide securing options. Two rows of D-rings appear on the ends and three on the sides, helping drivers position tie-downs around cargo. Its six-foot drop adds substantial side coverage.
- Minus-40-degree-Fahrenheit cold-crack resistance
- 20-by-16-foot tarp with six-foot drop
- Heat-sealed seams and reinforced edges
- D-rings, wear pads, and four-side grommets
- Its 20-by-16-foot body covers less length than a 16-by-27-foot tarp.
Skip it if you need a 16-by-27-foot body with four-foot drops; Mytee Products model SLLT4FT lists those dimensions.
This US Cargo Control tarp suits flatbed operators seeking six-foot drops, multiple tie-down points, and specified cold-crack resistance. Its 20-by-16-foot body is the fit boundary: confirm the cargo footprint suits its shorter length before choosing it.
Full product details
| Brand | US Cargo Control |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Fabric Weight | 14 ounces |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 16"L x 20"W |
| Item Weight | 42 pounds |
| Manufacturer | US Cargo Control |
| Part Number | LST20166-BLK |
| Material | Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) |
| Dimensions | 16"L x 20"W |
| Recommended Uses | Flatbed Cargo Protection, Machinery Cover, Protective Cover for Equipment |
| Size | 20' x 16' (6' drop) |
Listed on Amazon as: US Cargo Control 20 Feet x 16 Feet Steel Tarp, 6 Foot Drop, Lightweight 14 Oz Weather-Tough PVC-Coated Polyester Flatbed Tarp, Reliable Protection for Flatbed Trailer Cargo, Black
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#7
7. Mytee 16×27 Steel Tarp
- Dimensions: 324"L x 192"W
- Material: Vinyl
- Size: 1 – Pack
Best for: Lighter-weight steel-tarp handling.
Why it ranks #7: This 16-by-27-foot flatbed cover uses superlight 14-ounce vinyl, weighs 55 pounds, and includes a four-foot drop and two rows of D-rings.
At 55 pounds, Mytee Products’ 16-by-27-foot tarp offers a specified weight for buyers considering how much cover they must lift and position. Its 14-ounce vinyl and four-foot drops suit flatbed cargo protection, while an eight-by-four-foot flap extends coverage at the rear.
The 14-ounce vinyl is described as superlight, and the stated 55-pound weight gives a concrete reference for handling the tarp during placement and removal. A 16-by-27-foot body covers a broad flatbed area, while four-foot drops and the eight-by-four-foot flap extend protection down the sides and over the rear. Two rows of D-rings provide securing points, although the listing does not specify their spacing or a full-perimeter grommet arrangement.
- 16-by-27-foot tarp size
- 14-ounce superlight vinyl
- Four-foot drops with an eight-by-four-foot flap/tail
- Two rows of D-rings
- Its four-foot drops provide less side coverage than six-foot-drop options.
Skip it if you need deeper side coverage; CARTMAN model CM-2027-6X8 has six-foot drops and an eight-by-six-foot flap.
This Mytee tarp suits buyers prioritizing a stated 55-pound weight and a 16-by-27-foot cover with four-foot drops. Consider the drop depth against your load before choosing; taller or more deeply covered cargo may need a different configuration.
Full product details
| Brand | Mytee Products |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 324"L x 192"W |
| Item Weight | 55 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Mytee Products |
| Part Number | SLLT4FT |
| Material | Vinyl |
| Dimensions | 324"L x 192"W |
| Recommended Uses | Transportation |
| Size | 1 – Pack |
Listed on Amazon as: Mytee Products 16' x 27' Flatbed Truck 14 Oz Superlight Steel Tarp with 4 FT Drop – Black Heavy Duty Vinyl Waterproof Tarp for Trailers to Protect Cargo from Wind, Rain, Snow and Sun
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#8
8. EFQKLPY 16×27 Flatbed Tarp
- Dimensions: 323.99"L x 192"W
- Size: 16'x27'
Best for: 14-ounce full-size trailer cover.
Why it ranks #8: The 16-by-27-foot tarp has a four-foot drop and 14-ounce industrial PVC vinyl for buyers seeking a lighter-weight material specification.
EFQKLPY pairs a 16-by-27-foot tarp with four-foot drops, giving buyers a full-size flatbed cover in 14-ounce waterproof PVC vinyl. The listing says its extended flaps offer coverage for regular and large cargo without extra tarps or patches, making the dimensions central to its load-matching appeal.
The 14-ounce industrial PVC vinyl is described as suited to water and changing weather, supporting its role as a cargo cover for transport. Its 16-by-27-foot body and extended flaps are listed as providing coverage for regular and large loads, reducing the need to add a separate tarp or patch for those loads. Four-foot drops define the side coverage, so compare that depth with cargo height and how far down the sides you need the cover to reach.
- 16-by-27-foot dimensions
- Four-foot drop with extended flaps
- 14-ounce industrial PVC vinyl
- Listed for regular and large cargo coverage
- Four-foot drops may not cover the sides of taller loads as deeply as six-foot drops.
Skip it if you need six-foot drops and a longer tail flap; CARTMAN model CM-2027-6X8 specifies both.
Consider this EFQKLPY tarp for regular or large flatbed cargo that matches its 16-by-27-foot size and four-foot drops. The 14-ounce PVC format offers weather-focused coverage, but drop depth remains a key fit check for taller loads.
Full product details
| Brand | EFQKLPY |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 323.99"L x 192"W |
| Manufacturer | EFQKLPY |
| Part Number | USW25-41854 |
| Model Number | USW25-41854 |
| Dimensions | 323.99"L x 192"W |
| Size | 16'x27' |
Listed on Amazon as: 16'x27' Flatbed Trailer Tarp 14oz Waterproof Cargo Cover,4ft Drop
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#9
9. Wowangce 20×16 Steel Tarp
- Dimensions: 29.13"L x 20.08"W
- Material: PVC-coated polyester
- Size: 20 x 16 ft
Best for: Reinforced smaller steel-tarp loads.
Why it ranks #9: Its 20-by-16-foot cover uses 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester, with double-stitched reinforced edges and D-rings backed by wear pads.
Double-stitched edges and wear-padded D-rings give this Wowangce steel tarp reinforced securing points for flatbed cargo. Its 20-by-16-foot size and 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester provide a smaller-format cover than 16-by-27-foot options, with waterproof and tear-resistant material specified for weather exposure.
The 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester is described as waterproof and tear-resistant, supporting protection from rain, snow, wind, and UV rays. Double stitching reinforces the edges, and a wear pad backs each D-ring to help resist tearing under tension during tie-down. Those construction details focus on securement under load, while the 20-by-16-foot size limits the tarp to cargo suited to its coverage area. Check the load’s required drop depth against the listed configuration.
- 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester
- Waterproof and tear-resistant material
- Double-stitched reinforced edges
- D-rings backed with wear pads
- Its 20-by-16-foot footprint is smaller than 16-by-27-foot flatbed covers.
Skip it if you need 16-by-27-foot coverage with a four-foot drop; SUMORISE model 100014 lists that size and drop.
This Wowangce tarp fits buyers seeking reinforced edges and wear-padded D-rings on a 20-by-16-foot cover. Match its footprint to the cargo before loading, particularly when a larger flatbed load needs coverage beyond those dimensions.
Full product details
| Brand | Wowangce |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 29.13"L x 20.08"W |
| Item Weight | 44.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Wowangce |
| Part Number | HMY-Wowangce-0612 |
| Material | PVC-coated polyester |
| Model Number | HMY-Wowangce-0612 |
| Dimensions | 29.13"L x 20.08"W |
| Recommended Uses | Emergency Preparedness |
| Size | 20 x 16 ft |
Listed on Amazon as: 20 x 16 ft Steel Flatbed Tarp 14 Ounce PVC-Coated Polyester Waterproof Material with Reinforced Edges and D-Rings for Flatbed Truck & Trailer Cargo
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#10
10. GliCraft 12×16 Smoke Tarp
- Dimensions: 144"L x 192"W
- Size: 12 x 16 ft
Best for: Compact smoke-tarp coverage.
Why it ranks #10: This 12-by-16-foot 18-ounce vinyl cover is a smaller flatbed option, with waterproof construction and reinforced seams and edges.
A 12-by-16-foot footprint makes the GliCraft smoke tarp a compact option for smaller flatbed cargo rather than a full-size 16-by-27-foot load. Its 18-ounce vinyl is described as waterproof and weather-resistant, helping shield covered goods from rain, wind, snow, and sun exposure during transport.
The vinyl surface repels moisture, and the listing describes the material as waterproof and weather-resistant for outdoor conditions. Reinforced stitching along seams and edges adds strength at stress points and helps maintain the tarp’s shape through repeated use and exposure. Reinforced grommets are also listed for attachment. Together, these details support repeated covering and tie-down, while the 12-by-16-foot dimensions make cargo size the primary fit consideration for a flatbed buyer.
- 12-by-16-foot footprint for smaller cargo
- 18-ounce vinyl construction
- Waterproof, weather-resistant surface
- Reinforced seams, edges, and grommets
- The 12-by-16-foot coverage is limited for large flatbed loads.
Skip it if you need broad 16-by-27-foot coverage with four-foot drops; EFQKLPY model USW25-41854 lists that format.
The GliCraft suits buyers covering smaller flatbed cargo who want 18-ounce vinyl, reinforced seams, and attachment grommets. Its compact 12-by-16-foot dimensions are the important boundary; measure the load before relying on it for trailer-wide coverage.
Full product details
| Brand | GliCraft |
|---|---|
| Color | Balck |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 144"L x 192"W |
| Item Weight | 25.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | GliCraft |
| Part Number | DAO-GliCraft-1461 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | None. |
| Model Number | DAO-GliCraft-1461 |
| Dimensions | 144"L x 192"W |
| Size | 12 x 16 ft |
Listed on Amazon as: 12'x16' Smoke Tarp for Flatbed Truck, Heavy Duty 18 oz Vinyl Cargo Cover
View on AmazonAvoiding a fit and tie-down mismatch
A tarp can be the right nominal size and still fit poorly if its drop and flap do not suit the load. The listed dimensions describe the tarp, not a guarantee that it will cover every load shape, so compare the cargo footprint and height with the full cover dimensions before ordering. A six-foot drop, as on the CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp and US Cargo Control 20×16 Steel Tarp, offers different side coverage from the four-foot drops on the US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp and SUMORISE 16×27 Lumber Tarp.
Also check where securing points are available: products list different D-ring rows, grommets, and reinforced edges. Confirm your tie-down method can reach and secure those points around the actual cargo.
A flap or tail can extend coverage at an end, but does not replace checking the overall fit.
Balancing tarp weight with cargo protection
Choosing a heavier listed fabric is a material trade-off, not a guarantee of a particular service life. This set spans 14-ounce and 18-ounce descriptions: the CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp and SUMORISE 16×27 Lumber Tarp are 18-ounce options, while several alternatives use 14-ounce material. The US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp is specified at 56 pounds in its listing text, and the Mytee 16×27 Steel Tarp lists a 55-pound weight, illustrating that a lighter-ounce fabric does not necessarily mean an easy-to-handle tarp.
Tarp size also affects the amount of material being positioned. Consider who will deploy it, how often it will be handled, and the load’s coverage needs; compare both the stated fabric weight and overall dimensions rather than selecting by ounce rating alone.
How to Choose a Flatbed Trailer Tarp
Cover dimensions and drop
Choose dimensions that cover the load footprint and allow enough drop to protect its sides. Options range from the 12-by-16-foot GliCraft 12×16 Smoke Tarp to 16-by-27-foot covers, 20-by-27-foot covers, and the 24-by-27-foot Mytee 24×27 Lumber Tarp. Listed drops range from four feet on the US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp to eight feet on the Mytee 24×27 Lumber Tarp; the CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp has six-foot drops.
A smaller load may suit a compact cover, while broad or tall cargo may need a longer tarp or deeper drop. Measure the load rather than relying on the product name alone, and account for the flap or tail where specified.
Fabric weight and material
Compare fabric weight and material against the protection and handling needs of your loads. The lineup includes 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester or vinyl options and 18-ounce vinyl or PVC options. For example, the CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp is 18-ounce waterproof vinyl, while the US Cargo Control 20×16 Steel Tarp uses 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester.
The US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp lists a weight of 56 pounds, and Mytee 16×27 Steel Tarp lists 55 pounds, so consider the stated total weight as well as the ounce rating. Buyers prioritizing a heavier listed fabric can look at the 18-ounce choices; those comparing lighter material specifications can consider the 14-ounce options, while still checking total dimensions and weight.
Securement and reinforcement
Look for tie-down points and reinforced stress areas that work with your securing method. The CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp specifies padded D-rings and full-perimeter grommets, while Mytee 20×27 Lumber Tarp lists three rows of D-rings, heat-sealed seams, and reinforced hems. The US Cargo Control 20×16 Steel Tarp includes multiple D-ring rows, grommets along all four sides, and wear pads on its D-rings.
These designs differ, so do not assume every tarp has the same point layout or edge construction. Buyers using straps, hooks, or ropes should verify that the listed D-rings or grommets match their setup; frequent handling or tension at attachment points makes reinforced edges and wear pads useful details to compare.
Which flatbed trailer tarp should I choose?
For a large load needing substantial coverage and multiple attachment options, choose the CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp: it combines 18-ounce waterproof vinyl, six-foot drops, padded D-rings, and perimeter grommets. If a four-foot drop suits your cargo, the US Cargo Control 16×27 Steel Tarp offers 14-ounce PVC-coated polyester and heat-sealed seams, while the SUMORISE 16×27 Lumber Tarp provides an 18-ounce alternative. For a two-cover purchase, consider the Mytee 20×27 Lumber Tarp, which comes as a two-pack with six-foot drops.
Taller loads may call for the eight-foot drops on the Mytee 24×27 Lumber Tarp. For a smaller cargo footprint, the GliCraft 12×16 Smoke Tarp is the compact listed option; check dimensions and attachment layout before deciding.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How should I measure a flatbed load to choose tarp width, length, and drop?
Measure the load’s length and width, then account for the tarp material needed to cover its top and extend down the sides. Choose a drop that reaches far enough to cover the cargo without leaving excessive material to secure. Compare those measurements with the tarp’s listed dimensions and drop before choosing.
How many D-rings or tie-down points do I need for a flatbed tarp?
Choose a tarp with attachment points that let you secure its edges across your load, and check their layout against your trailer’s tie-down locations. The listed options include reinforced or padded D-rings and, on the CARTMAN tarp, full-perimeter grommets. The product details do not give a universal required number of tie-down points.
Can a 14-ounce tarp protect cargo as well as an 18-ounce tarp in my conditions?
Either may suit your cargo, but the listed 14-ounce and 18-ounce tarps are not interchangeable in every setup. The 18-ounce options include vinyl or PVC materials, while the 14-ounce choices include lightweight PVC-coated polyester and vinyl. Consider your coverage, drop, material, and attachment needs; the supplied details do not establish equal performance.
How do I choose between a four-, six-, and eight-foot drop?
Match the drop to the height and shape of the cargo so the tarp can cover the sides and leave room for securing. The listed choices include four-foot, six-foot, and eight-foot drops. A four-foot drop may suit a lower load, while taller cargo may call for a deeper drop; check the full dimensions against your load.
Which tarp details should I compare for weather protection and securement?
Compare the stated material, waterproof description, seam construction, edge reinforcement, and attachment layout. The options include waterproof vinyl or PVC-coated polyester, reinforced edges or D-rings, and one listing with heat-sealed seams. These details help narrow the choices, but the supplied product information does not establish how a tarp performs in every weather or hauling condition.
Final Words
For a large flatbed load that needs substantial coverage and several attachment options, the CARTMAN 20×27 Lumber Tarp is the strongest fit in this group, with 18-ounce waterproof vinyl, six-foot drops, padded D-rings, and perimeter grommets. Choose by matching dimensions and drop to your cargo first. Consider a 14-ounce option for a lighter tarp, a two-pack for two covers, or an eight-foot drop for taller loads.


