When people think of tarpaulins (or tarps) they often think of the classic canvas type, but in fact there are many different kinds of tarps, including steel tarps. Despite their name, these tarps are not made of steel; they are tarps made of regular materials like mesh or polyethylene used to protect and secure short loads into truck beds. They are called steel tarps because they are often used to secure shorter items like sheet metal and steel cable, as opposed to lumber tarps, which are used to secure long loads.

Steel tarps usually have grommets (or D rings) that are used to secure the tarp to the truck. Steel tarps often come with two rows of fastenings about a foot and a half apart, which is known as a double drop design. These two rows help secure the tarp over the load, and provide extra protection. A steel tarp measuring 14 feet by 16 feet costs about $150, with prices increasing depending on the size of the tarp. Unlike lumber tarps, only one steel tarp is usually needed to secure a load, eliminating the need for complicated overlaps in the tarps and knots in the cables.

Steel tarps are often made of vinyl fabric or mesh. Both these fabrics are strong and durable, as well as relatively lightweight. It is important to choose a fabric that is light enough to be handled and secured manually, but strong enough to keep the load securely in place. Both vinyl and mesh provide a layer of protection from rain and sunlight, keeping the cargo beneath in good condition.

Steel tarps are useful for keeping loads of small items like steel cables and sheet metal secure in truck beds. Steel tarps with double drop fastening options are a great way to ensure that cargo will not move or be exposed to the elements.