Tarping in Winter: A Grueling but Essential Practice for Truck Drivers

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, the job of owner-operator becomes even more challenging. One of the toughest tasks during this season is tarping. At Mercer Transportation, we recognize that tarping is not just a grueling responsibility—it’s a critical safety measure that protects both the cargo and everyone on the road. While necessary year-round, tarp safety becomes even more important during the winter months, when icy conditions, snow, and freezing winds make this practice not only harder but also more dangerous.

Why Tarping Matters—Especially in Winter

For drivers transporting open-deck loads, tarps are essential to secure and protect cargo from the elements. In the winter, snow and ice can cause significant damage to products, leading to costly delays or product losses. Beyond that, improperly secured loads can pose serious hazards on the road. A tarp that comes loose could obstruct visibility or cause accidents for other drivers. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), improperly secured loads are responsible for around 200,000 crashes each year. This highlights the importance of ensuring tarps are securely fastened, even in the most difficult conditions.

Winter weather increases these risks significantly. Snow and ice can cause tarps to become stiff and harder to manage, while high winds can make the task of securing them properly a true test of endurance. The added weight of wet or frozen tarps only makes the job more physically demanding, and slippery surfaces put drivers at an increased risk of injury.

The Physical Toll of Tarping

We at Mercer Transportation understand the physical and mental strain that tarping can put on our drivers—especially during the winter. Tarping involves climbing on top of loads, often in freezing or windy conditions, lifting and securing heavy tarps that can weigh upwards of 100 pounds. The risk of slipping, falling, or suffering from frostbite is real, and each year, injuries related to tarping occur across the industry.

A study from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) found that slip-and-fall incidents in the trucking industry increase by 21% during the winter months, making tarp-related safety precautions even more important. At Mercer, we’re committed to making sure our drivers are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to stay safe during these challenging tasks. Whether it’s providing drivers with skill reinforcement, suggesting they have winter-appropriate gear, or supporting them with resources to understand how to handle heavy tarps more efficiently, safety is our top priority.

Mercer’s Commitment to Safety

At Mercer Transportation, we know how grueling the job of tarping can be, especially during winter. We’re immensely grateful to the dedicated drivers who take on this challenging and often overlooked task. Their commitment to securing your loads, no matter the weather, keeps our roads safer and ensures that deliveries are made on time and intact. We encourage all drivers to take the necessary time and precautions when tarping in winter conditions. It’s not just about getting the job done—it’s about getting it done safely.

To our drivers: Thank you. We know that your work is difficult, and we appreciate the extra effort it takes to tarp in cold, icy conditions. You play an essential role in keeping Mercer and our clients moving forward, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

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